It may not have seven seats, and it’s not the quickest car here. But the ML is a very accomplished all-rounder.
The ride is softer and more forgiving than the Audi Q7’s or BMW X5’s. Even so, it still coped well with the lane-change test, thanks to quick-witted steering and good body control. The 30-60mph time of 14.4 seconds was respectable, too, and engine noise stayed in the background.
The ML barely broke a sweat on the 1-in-6 test hill. The footbrake held the outfit steady before the torquey engine and 4WD hauled car and caravan up the hill.
The boot took all the luggage and had a 12V socket; the extension mirrors fitted with ease. The £39,485 price tag isn’t cheap, but it is good value.