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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  Outdated Dinasoar - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Thomas Smith - May 4 - 10:00 am

  Bought the M because it was cheaper than the X5. After two months, it already feels old and cant wait to trade it in next year for the Cadillac. Bad investmen

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  Much Better than 2006 - 2008 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By drlgu - May 2 - 5:40 am

  My wife had a 06 ML350 and loved the looks and how it drove; however, it was in the shop several times for power liftgate and squeaking rear suspension. Decided to trade in for 2008 with P2 package and never regretted it. The 2008 handles much better, probably due to larger wheels and tires. Bought it in June 08 and overall reliability and build quality has been excellent. The 08 also seemed to have improved on the 7sp transmission as it does not hesitate like the 06. Had opportunity to drive in 3 inches of snow and handled very well.

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  05 ML350 Special Edition - 2005 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By jerrylaw1 - April 30 - 10:00 am

  This SUV is great. Not what I expected. I didnt even like it that much, until I drove it.

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  Mercedes M-Class - 2001 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By ahalkidis - April 27 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my ML320 for 16 months and have had numerous problems that have resulted in numerous trips to the dealer. The only saving grace has been the awesome treatment from the servicing dealer. I also had noise problems emanating from the dash area. The dealer had to actually take the dash apart and repair spot welds in the A-pillar! That was the only way to get rid of the noises! Besides the noises, Ive had faulty power window switches, noisy power door locks, faulty light switches, noisy blower, and the list goes on. All these faults resulted in parts having to be replaced.

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  Mercedes ML 500 beats the rest - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Starjet - April 27 - 2:00 am

  Ive test driven the BMW, Acura, Lexus and the new Volvo SUVs, some several times, and the ML 500 beats them all. The car drives like a dream, has power to spare, and has many great features, like its easy to use nav system. Plus you can feel safe and secure in this SUV. Its safety features are second to none. Whats best about Mercedes is how your treated before, during and after the purchase of the vehicle. At Mercedes there is no presure, they want you to make the right purchase for yourself, and you feel welcomed at the dealership even after you purchase the vehicle.

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  FANTASTIC - 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By FANTASTIC!!! - April 25 - 6:03 am

  I traded in my 2004 Escalade because I was tired of driving a big truck everyday. This is my 9th Benz and compares great to my 2005 S500. Although smaller than the Escalade, I have more features.(my ML500 is loaded with every option available including the phone) Only problem so far is that I need a new air pump for the air suspension feature. Im told this had been a problem in some of the 2006 models. Overall, I would highly recommend. Im avid Benz driver and Benz got it right on the 2006 ML500.

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  PEOPLE NEED TO REMEMBER: ITS A TRUCK! - 1999 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By CPW - April 22 - 2:00 am

  I have enjoyed my ML 430 very much. Yes, there have been little nagging things that have been fixed, but, the dealer ALWAYS had another car for me. The seats a good and firm for all day driving. Not like a living room couch. Also people seem to forget : ITS A TRUCK! NOT A CAR. Of course it is choppy over bumps. But I would like anyone to tell me that they can find another vehicle that handles like it and rides like it with a full frame underneath. When was the last time you checked the air in your tires? Sould be at 42PSI Overall: Great Vehicle. Rides like a true German car. FIRM!!!!

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  My second ML320 - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Wayne Post - April 22 - 2:00 am

  My first 1999 ML320 was a plain Jane model. It was unbreakable and the dealer support was much better than I expected. Although I bought it used, and from out of the area, the local dealers always exceeded my expectations. I liked the 99 but the 02 is dramatically improved. Every feature works better and I treated myself to all the amenities. I dispute the claims that the ML series is flawed and poorly assembled. Everything worked, always, and I used it hard.

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  Look somewhere, anywhere else - 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Candalerio - April 11 - 10:00 am

  Poor reliability, serivce, design and material quality sum it up. Endless trips to the dealer for repairs and each requires 4 days while they get parts. Requests to fix things are ignored because "its supposed to be like that". Resale value is a joke: it seems word is getting aorund. I dont understand how MB can have a good reputation producing cars like this. Obviously, I will never buy from this manufacturer again.

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  Worst Benz EVER - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Ovi - April 11 - 10:00 am

  An ML500 Insp.(03)loaded. At 1,500mi the "check engine" light came on, Im told the gas cap was not tight. The problem persits. Took it back wks. later & dealer changed something. The light went off & later came back on. Called dealer & car kept for two days. I picked it up & light was out. Two days later on, take it back & it is now the catalytic converter. (at 4000Mi). Ask dealer & MB rep.what about when car is out of warranty? The MB rep & MB service mgr. say theyll "monitor" vehicle. I went home to find out next a.m. in my garage a leak (washer fluid).