Overview & Reviews

While Mercedes-Benz will always be a quintessentially German automaker, its M-Class SUV has always been an American at heart. To begin with, it's built in Alabama and has been since it first burst onto the scene as one of the first luxury SUVs. The U.S. of A is also the M's primary market, as its sizable dimensions and mostly thirsty engines play much better in Frankfort, Kentucky, than they do back in Frankfurt, Germany.

Regardless of its origins, however, each generation of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class has been better than the last. This is especially true of the second generation, which replaced the original model that soldiered on through eight years of subpar reliability and build quality. As such, used shoppers are urged to consider the M-Class from 2006 and later. If you're interested in a newer model, however, the latest, third-generation M-Class is a subtle evolution of the previous one, upping the ante with even more power and features.

Although it's undeniably a solid choice for a midsize luxury SUV, there are many worthwhile and less expensive competitors in the premium SUV segment. As such, it's certainly worth a look around before you settle on this Germanic American.

Current Mercedes-Benz M-Class
The Mercedes-Benz M-Class midsize luxury SUV's exterior styling strikes a balance between traditional M-Class cues and the latest ones from the Mercedes-Benz line. As always with a Mercedes, however, it's the quality of construction and all-around feeling of solidity that make it stand out. Other key strengths include its diverse engine lineup, comfortable seating and excellent brakes. With only five seats, however, it's less family-friendly than some rivals that offer third-row seating, and its price can be considered quite expensive.

The current M-Class is available in four different trim levels defined by their engine: ML250 Bluetec, ML350, ML400 and ML63 AMG. All come with a seven-speed automatic and all-wheel drive ("4Matic") except for the ML350, which can be had with either rear- or all-wheel drive.

Under the hood, the ML250 Bluetec has a turbocharged 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel with 200 horsepower and a healthy 369 pound-feet of torque. The ML350 comes with a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 302 hp and 273 lb-ft. The ML400 features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that produces 329 hp and 354 lb-ft.

A beast apart from the rest of the lineup is the powerhouse ML63 AMG that boasts a turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 with 518 hp and 516 lb-ft. Output is even greater -- at 550 hp and 560 lb-ft – if you opt for the AMG Performance package. The ML63 AMG also includes active roll stabilization, sportier suspension and steering tuning, 20-inch wheels, stronger brakes and special interior trim.

All M-Class models come similarly equipped with standard items like a sunroof, a power liftgate, heated power front seats, the latest COMAND electronics interface, Bluetooth and an emergency communications system. Optional highlights include a panoramic sunroof, keyless ignition and entry and "multicontour" front seats with massage functions. The On/Off Road package is notable for its adaptive air suspension (that improves both ride and handling qualities) as well as its two-speed transfer case, six-mode terrain selector and underbody skid plates.

In reviews, we've been impressed by the Mercedes-Benz M-Class' brisk performance and strong brakes. Handling is confident enough around corners, but the electrically assisted steering is a little too light in effort and lacks the subtle feedback we've come to expect from Mercedes-Benz. Interior quality is excellent, as expected, though the more rounded dash design reminds us more of the distantly related Jeep Grand Cherokee in its appearance than its squared-off Mercedes siblings. Overall, the M-Class is solid choice for a luxury SUV, but as there's so much to choose from in this segment, taking a look at a few different competitors as well is a good idea.

Used Mercedes-Benz M-Class Models
The current third-generation Mercedes-Benz M-Class debuted for 2012. The following year brought the optional On/Off Road package (replacing the Dynamic Handling package) as well as the massage functions for the front seats.

Note that these M-Class models differed from today's lineup in terms of a few engine offerings. Specifically, compared to the current ML250 Bluetec, the 2012-'14 ML350 Bluetec had a more powerful but less fuel-efficient turbodiesel V6 with 240 hp and 455 lb-ft. Also available those first three years was the ML550 with its 4.7-liter turbocharged V8 good for 402 hp and 443 lb-ft.

The previous, second-generation M-Class was produced from 2006-'11. Though similar in appearance to the current model, this M-Class differs in its engine choices, hydraulic versus electric steering, slightly lower-quality interior, and electronics controls that were less user-friendly than those of its contemporary competitors.

This generation was introduced with only two trims. The ML350 came with a 3.5-liter 268-hp V6, while the ML500 was powered by a 5.0-liter 302-hp V8. Both came similarly equipped.

The next year saw two additional models join the line. The ML320 CDI featured a relatively fuel-efficient diesel engine (215 hp, 398 lb-ft of torque) that didn't have California emissions approval, while the performance-oriented ML63 AMG came with a 6.2-liter V8 good for 503 hp. It also included a number of other performance and handling upgrades.

The ML550 replaced the ML500 for '08, boasting a 5.5-liter V8 good for a much healthier 382 hp. The following year saw the advent of the 50-state-compliant and renamed ML320 Bluetec, along with a base rear-wheel-drive ML350. Every ML also received a face-lift front and rear and an available updated COMAND system with Bluetooth phone connectivity.

For '10, the diesel model became the ML350 Bluetec and received a smidge more torque, but the bigger news was the addition of the ML450 Hybrid. Featuring a gasoline-electric hybrid system co-developed with BMW and General Motors, this ML featured a 3.5-liter V6, a pair of electric motors and an advanced transmission for a total of 335 hp. It achieved 22 mpg combined, which is good, but the cheaper Bluetec managed 21.

In reviews, our editors found the second-generation M-Class imparted that feeling of impenetrable solidity one expects from Mercedes-Benz. With the optional air suspension, the ride quality was impressively supple. Behind the wheel, one will find plenty of room and excellent support from the premium multicontour seats, as well as superb cabin materials. Major downsides included fussy electronic controls, pokey acceleration with the V6 engine, and higher ownership costs than some other luxury SUVs.

The first-generation Mercedes M-Class debuted in 1998 with the ML320, which was motivated by a 3.2-liter V6 with 215 hp. More standard equipment was added in 1999, as well as a more powerful and luxurious V8-equipped ML430 model. Detail improvements in 2000 included an interior freshening and optional third-row seating on all M-Class models, and in 2001 the TeleAid emergency calling system became standard across the lineup. These early ML models suffered from extensive quality-control issues that often resulted in expensive repair bills, so we wouldn't recommend them as used-car purchases.

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class was reworked and improved in 2002 with the modification of more than 1,100 parts and the substitution of the ML500 for the previous ML430, now featuring a 5.0-liter V8 packing 288 hp. Telltale signs included new bumpers, clear-lens headlights and restyled mirrors. In late 2003, the ML350 replaced the ML320, featuring a larger 3.5-liter 232-hp V6.

Mercedes was also first to market with a high-performance luxury SUV, offering the ML55 AMG from 2000-'03. Sold in limited numbers, this pricey ML had a 5.4-liter V8 good for 342 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque, along with a sport-tuned suspension.

User Reviews:

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  A competent luxury SUV - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Frank S - July 21 - 2:00 am

  The M class is one of the best luxury SUVs in the market today. Its handling is great and its ride quality is good. The interior of the M class is simple and functional with plenty of luxury amenities. Its exterior is tough yet elegant. The reliability of the M class seems to have improved considerably over the years and now appears to be on par with the competition. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a safe and competent mid- size luxury SUV.

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  DO NOT BUY THIS VEHICLE! - 2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By JP122 - July 19 - 10:00 am

  Absolutly without equal the biggest piece of junk I ever owned in my life. Was in the shop at least once a month. Mercedes service stinks. Couldnt figure out the electrical problems after numerous visits. Problem solved, traded in on a Lexus RX330 and there is no comparison between these 2 vehicles.

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  The worst vehicle I ever own. - 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By neversummer78 - July 19 - 2:57 am

  I purchased my 2012 ML350 Bluetec back in November 2011. After 2 weeks, the first problem I had was car was pulling to the right at highway speed. After left it with the dealer for about a week, they finally realized that it was bad tire which took them a few more days to get replacement. Next, I was having problem with car loosing power when driving over a long distance or for a few hours. There is no error message on the dashboard nor that the dealer can replicate. Anyway, I start documenting them on video using my phone. They finally acknowledge but still no solution for it. Along with the car loosing power, I was getting error with PRE-SAFE Inoperative error and Ad-Blue low level

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  sad but true - 2001 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By phred - July 11 - 10:00 am

  Mechanically this vehicle is good for at least several hundreds of thousands of miles. The ride is as quiet and good as any luxury vehicle. The sound system high quality but the speakers are not well placed. The integrated MCS console for radio/cassette/CD/GPS/telephone is really well designed and easy to comprehend and use relative to its complexity. Brake wear excessive, full replacement at 10,000 miles! Second set of brakes lasted another 30,000+ (a lot more highway driving). Nagging electronic problems, still having mostly electronic problems requiring service calls & weve had the vehicle for almost 2 and a half years.

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  A Few Flaws - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By ErikVB - July 11 - 10:00 am

  Got an ML 350 with 3rd row seating. Great option for those with children under 12 as they fold out of the way sideways and can be removed entirely pretty easily. Car is beautiful with Inspiration pkg and upgraded sound system is a must. I knew mpg wasnt going to be good, but faulty gas gauge sensor has made it worse (Could only go 200 miles on a tank, as sensor wasnt reading final 7 gallons or so). Also the moonroof didnt open properly at first and after getting it fixed, the weatherstripping around it is now falling off. I am hopeful dealer will be able to fix permanently. All in all, fun car to drive with a few production defects.

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  Pleasantly Surprised - 2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By John - July 10 - 6:40 am

  After researching, the MB ML500 was the only SUV that appealed to me-used for utilitarian purposes as fast cars are my preference. I am surprised at how well the MB drives. It accelerates nicely & handles turns better than most SUVs IÂ’ve driven. ItÂ’s extremely quiet & has great curb appeal. I love that itÂ’s predictable & that the ride is true MB. I avg 20+mpg highway and 15+mpg city. I like the console & control center a lot (as for the clock in the center for the passenger-they can buy a watch or drive) & seating is comfortable on long trips. My friends have the Lexus & Infiniti & other than outright speed-FX is much faster-RX not so much-my M Class wins in every category-especially style!

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  NICE...BUT CMON.... - 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Ross - July 8 - 5:20 pm

  The car is truly beautiful from the outside and wonderful to drive. You have to get the V8. There is probably only 1 mpg difference but a huge difference in power. The only thing is that the inside is soooooo simple. The interior is ok but cmon, Mercedes really hasnt changed anything on the inside in 100 years. Old buttons, mediocre nav. It makes you wonder about the price when far-inferior cars look amazing on the inside in comparison. Little leg room in the back. Mercedes is a driving machine, yes. But for $60,000- plus (with AMG), I want my cars interior looking a little better than a Honda... dont you think?

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  1999 ML430 - 1999 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By P Savage - June 21 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned various SUVs over the last 20 years, including every style of Jeep on the market, but this will probably be the last one I will ever need or want to buy. It was built to last and is extremely comfortable. The seating position for the driver is superb for on and off road adventures. The amplitheater style seats in the rear provide the passengers equally good view of the scenery. I hate having to break down and buy foreign, but nothing we americans make, and none of the small boxes the Japanese make come close.

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  PERFECT SO FAR - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By RICH - June 21 - 10:00 am

  No problems after 12,000. powerful,comfortable and safe.

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  2002 Ml320 is fantastic!!! - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By razor - June 16 - 10:00 am

  Merc has really improved ML320 from 2002 onwards. Its now what a Merc should be