The Best ML Ever...

The new ML500 is an incredible vehicle. I bought one about three days ago. I had a 1999 ML430 with the Sky Top Roof and 6 Disc CD Changer, Heated Seats, but this car was far from reliable.
As far as the new ML500 they are using a 5.0 Liter, 302 HP Variable Valve Timing instead of SOHC type of engine. My 1999 went 67,000 miles with no problems except electrical to the skytop roof, a few other minor problems. As far as the 1999 the SUV was built to a "price point". The new ML 500, is built with the cost accountants thrown out the window, they have brought back the true meaning of Mercedes Benz Quality, Safety synonomous with reliability.
The Interior of the new ML500 is the difference of night and day compared to the 1999 ML430. The new ML500, features tons more leather, a lot more wood, leather and vinyl, they've finally cut out the plastic for the most part. If you want to see a plasticly interior look at the RX330. Another interior feature I have found useful in the center console the leather wrapped "grab bars" on curvy roads, leave it up to Mercedes to think of all the details. I also, like the new BMW like gear selector next to the steering wheel. Also, the navigation is far less complicated than in the last generation ML. It seems they have made it far more user friendly, I personally no longer need a manual to use it. It seems to me that it provides a lot more useful information, such as alternatives routes in a traffic jam etc. The interior is near silent now, were the previous generation was noisy on the highway, and some city driving. In Naples, FL. I see tons of these NEW (2006) ML's driving, so it is quite clear Mercedes Benz has made a change for the better in every aspect. Safety, has always been a huge feature of Mercedes Benz, they invented crumple zones a long time ago, so they know a thing or two about safety.
The exterior of the new ML500, features chrome on the tail. Looks great. Also, the Bi-Xenon lights are great at night on the highway. Another feature I took advantage of was the power tailgate. Wow, how awesome it is when your hands are full. Also, the navigation is far less complicated than in the last generation ML. The lines of the 2006 ML are far more aggressive in my opinion than the 1999, the lines are a lot more curvy, no longer protrays a minivan look.
The steering on the new ML500, is nimble, and soakes up rough pavement with an "ablomb". The ride is also more minivan like and unlike a rough SUV like ride. The 7-speed tranmission shifts seamlessly, you have to look at the tach to make sure the car is running at red lights.
In Conclusion what an awesome SUV, I would highly recommend over the Lexus RX330, Infiniti FX, and the Acura MDX.