The 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 stands as a testament to luxury and versatility in the SUV market. Equipped with a potent gasoline-powered V6 engine, the ML 350 shares a similar feature set with its diesel counterpart, the ML 350 Bluetec, making it a compelling choice for discerning drivers. Let’s delve into the standard and optional features that defined this model year.
Standard Features of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML 350
The 2014 ML 350 boasts a comprehensive list of standard equipment designed for comfort, convenience, and style. Rolling on standard 19-inch wheels and illuminated by LED running lights and taillights, the exterior immediately conveys a sense of modern sophistication. A sunroof and roof rails enhance its utility and adventurous spirit, while a power liftgate adds everyday convenience. Foglamps ensure visibility in adverse conditions, and dual-zone automatic climate control maintains cabin comfort for all occupants.
Inside, the ML 350 cabin is appointed with wood interior trim, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The driver benefits from a manual tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel and eight-way power front seats with four-way power lumbar adjustment, ensuring an optimal driving position. Heated front seats and reclining rear seats prioritize passenger comfort, while MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery provides a durable and luxurious feel (with optional leather upgrades available).
Technologically, the 2014 ML 350 is well-equipped. The COMAND electronics interface serves as the central hub for infotainment and vehicle settings. Mercedes’ mbrace2 communications system integrates smartphone apps for enhanced connectivity. Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, along with an eight-speaker sound system featuring HD radio, a six-CD changer, USB/auxiliary jacks, and an SD card reader, cater to all entertainment needs.
Optional Packages to Elevate Your 2014 ML 350
For those seeking to personalize their ML 350, a range of optional packages were available to enhance both aesthetics and functionality.
Sport Package
The Sport package for the ML 350 models delivers a more athletic appearance with AMG exterior trim and the choice of 19- or 20-inch AMG wheels, adding a touch of sporty flair.
Premium 1 Package
The Premium 1 package significantly upgrades the ML 350 with a suite of desirable features. This package includes a rearview camera for enhanced visibility, power-folding exterior mirrors, and auto-dimming mirrors for added convenience and safety. Inside, a 10-way power driver seat (with four-way power lumbar), a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and driver memory functions ensure personalized comfort. Double sun visors, a navigation system with 10 gigabytes of music storage, voice-command functionality, a rear 115-volt household-style power outlet, satellite radio, and an iPod interface further enhance the in-cabin experience.
Lighting and Safety Packages
The Lighting package enhances nighttime visibility with adaptive bi-xenon headlights featuring automatic high-beam control. For advanced safety, the Lane Tracking package provides a blind-spot warning system and a lane-departure warning system. The Driver Assistance package expands on this with adaptive cruise control and an advanced version of the Lane Tracking package, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids.
Parking Assist and On/Off-Road Packages
Maneuvering in tight spaces is simplified with the Parking Assist package, which includes front and rear parking sensors, an automated parallel parking system, and a surround-view parking camera. For adventurous owners, the special-order On/Off-Road package equips the ML 350 with an adaptive suspension with air springs (“Airmatic”), a two-speed transfer case, a six-mode terrain selector, and underbody skid plates, significantly enhancing its capability in varied terrains. Airmatic suspension was also available as a stand-alone option.
Stepping Up: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML 550 and ML 63 AMG
For those desiring more power and performance, the ML 550 and ML 63 AMG models represented significant upgrades within the 2014 M-Class lineup. The ML 550 builds upon the ML 350, adding a turbocharged V8 engine and the Sport package as standard, along with running boards.
The ML 63 AMG takes performance to the extreme with a more powerful V8 engine, an AMG-tuned Airmatic suspension with adaptive stabilizer bars, exclusive 20-inch AMG wheels, and unique styling elements both inside and out. Many of the premium packages like Premium 1, Lighting, Lane Tracking, and Parking Assist were standard on the ML 63 AMG, with the Driver Assistance package as an option. The AMG Performance package further boosted engine output and top speed, adding performance-oriented features like red brake calipers and a carbon-fiber engine cover.
Individual Options for Further Customization
Beyond packages, individual options allowed for granular customization of the 2014 ML 350. These included a trailer hitch, a panoramic sunroof, keyless ignition/entry, “multicontour” front seats with massage functions, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a rear-seat entertainment system, various cabin accent options, and a Splitview display for the COMAND system. The ML 63 AMG exclusively offered a high-end 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.
In conclusion, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 offered a compelling blend of luxury, technology, and performance, with a wide array of standard and optional features to cater to diverse needs and preferences. Whether prioritizing comfort, sporty aesthetics, advanced technology, or off-road capability, the ML 350 and the broader 2014 M-Class range provided a premium SUV experience.
