Mercedes are more commonly known for their elegant cruising machines, but they are not afraid of going 4×4 and indeed this is one model that isn’t common on these shores and looks absolutely stunning.
It is a Mercedes ML350 AMG Brabus, now if that isn’t enough to take in you could also add that it is a blue efficiency, sport, CDi while you’re at it. What does this equate to I hear you ask? Well basically it is a 3.5 litre 6 cylinder turbo diesel engine mated to a 7 speed trip-tronic auto box with an AMG styling pack and Brabus tuning kit. Made in 2010 this ML350 was built with the AMG styling pack which consists of AMG front and rear bumpers with parking sensors, AMG side steps, 21 inch AMG alloy wheels, full AMG exhaust plus more that I have likely not picked up on.
The car was then sent to the Brabus factory for the tune up which gives around a 30% increase in power and torque meaning roughly this big diesel is running around 300bhp with 500lb/ft of torque. Inside the car is full of toys than Hamleys, sat nav, tv, 6 disc front loading media centre, Bluetooth, heated leather/alcantara seats, dual climate control, electric one touch tail gate, isofix child seat points, electrical adjusting front seats plus. Permanent four wheel drive is transmitted via the 7 speed automatic gearbox with paddle shift on the steering wheel.
Power wise, this is one jeep that would embarrass a lot of saloon cars and cruises lovely on the motorway along with sharp steering making Irish roads easy work. Even off road this ML350 will cope with everything an average buyer would put it through and its electronic systems keep you on the right path. Its height adjustable air suspension and adjustable shock settings mean it can fit into city life or country life very easily. All in all, this is a great all round package of style and performance and it was an absolute joy to drive on all roads.
Words and Photos: Graham Curry
