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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  ML 350 - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By User123 - November 28 - 10:00 am

  This is a very well crafted vehicle with many added safety features that many other SUVs do not enjoy. A more powerful engine than its predecessor ML320. I do have to say that it is time for a new body style. I have owned my 2003 ML350 for 3 months now so not much else to comment. Everything is great.

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  Love the 2003 ML 350 - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Cldntsleep - November 28 - 10:00 am

  Its a luxury SUV and very classy and easy to drive/maneuver. There are no blind spots, you have the option of obtaining a 3rd row, sports package, running boards, Bose sound system, tinted windows, and much more.

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  2001 ML - 430 problems - 2001 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Bob E. - November 27 - 5:46 pm

  I bought the vehicle new and now have a total of 23000 miles. The brakes were replaced at 22500 miles due to excessive noise [squeel] the new breaks also squeal bad have tried everything to quiet them down. Replaced the drivers heated seat. The GPS system stinks. I advised the dealer of a loss of water in the radiator and was advised that I needed a new water hose, six months later the hose came in that I had paid for, however no water leaked during that time. After many calls they finally gave my money back for the special order hose. No heat in the floor, dealer advised to shut off dash vents? Wow is this quality of MB or a page from a Model A Ford. All of my cars are garage kept.

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  The future is here and it is CDI - 2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Mac Miller - November 25 - 5:13 am

  We took our ML320 CDI on a 4 day trip through the winter mountains of Oregon and California. The ML ate it up. Heres why: Full time 4 wheel drive with full time traction and stability control, quiet roomy interior, comfortable seats, a bright sunroof and pleasant interior decor, driving feel of a car and not a truck, and an incredible drivetrain. This very quiet diesel engine and 7-speed transmission make the ML a rocket. You never lack for power. Ever. You want to pass someone? Uphill? Press the throttle and its done. Heres the best part. We got 27 mpg on our trip!

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  Possibly the worst SUV on the planet? - 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By jodaor - November 22 - 2:00 am

  At 40K miles, 3 sets of complete brake pads and rotors, 2 navigation systems, complete fuel system replaced, 1 set of exterior mirrors, headlamps with so much condensation they look like fish tanks (but the dealership says its normal??), antitheft is so good that it even locks me out and the transmitters wont unlock the vehicle (the key will, but then the alarm sounds and wont stop until you disconnect the battery---no wonder my neighbors wont speak to me anymore). I can go on for days, but if I can give anyone advice if they are even CONSIDERING buying this vehicle......turn and run and dont look back!

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  my mercedes ml 500 - 2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By mrasteve - November 22 - 2:00 am

  I purchased the inspiration model. Vehicle is fun to drive. Not sure about mileage have not had it long enough. The suv is built very solid and is capable of some off roading. Handling is a joy. Does not bounce like my Grand Cherokee limited 5.9. Probably both capable of the same speed. Nice car

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  Great car, horrible NAVIGATION interface - 2010 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Anonymous - November 19 - 2:00 am

  Love the car. Great MPG for the size, great price with all the incentives. The Nav interface has to be taken back to the drawing board. The search function is frustrating. The voice recognition is average to poor. Other than the electronics, I love the car. Its easy to drive, handles well and has enough power to merge onto a busy highway.

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  Performance and Style - 2001 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By goldenvol - November 12 - 7:56 pm

  I bought this car for 12K, it was a one owner. The engine performs great for an SUV. Handling is awesome for a "boxer" style car. Fun to drive plus very safe. I always feel I am in control while driving this auto. I did have to replace a Power steering pump ($625), but I expected to pay more for the service type work. I would strongly recommend this car.

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  Ml 350 bluetec is where its at! - 2014 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Julia Froehlich - November 7 - 12:43 pm

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  THE BIG LET DOWN - 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By james - November 7 - 10:36 am

  This car is a big let down we are so done with this car, the transmission makes so much noise the shifter is in a bad position, the loud noise from the engine, we have had the car serviced so many times trying to find out about the engine problem, slipping of the transmission. Our 98 ml320 gave us no problems, we should have kept it with 135k miles, sadly disappointed