Question for anyone with thoughts on this subject.

I owned a 1998 ML320. I loved the vehicle but it had its share of mechanical problems. I attribute the problems to it being the first model year for the vehicle.

I would like to purchase the new ML450 hybrid. But, I'm faced with the same dilemma - is it risky to purchase the vehicle in its first model year? Would it be better to lease at first while the kinks are worked out? Or, is it likely to be okay?

Thanks for your advice.

 

I agree that it's a waste of money. Just go with the regular ML. It's hypocritical buying an SUV that's "green and efficient" when it causes more harm creating/maintaining the vehicle than a typical diesel or gas power engine. The difference in cost will never outweigh the cost of a gas one too.

As far as reliability goes, it's unlikely that the ML will see 98-00's trends again.