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:

• 

  Buy extended warranty, maintainence$$$ - 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By don - March 1 - 10:00 am

  Dealership charges $600 for glorified oil change (schedule C). Have had for 4 yrs only about 7000 mi/yr. Now my warranty is up- last month. Only 28,000 mi., I have had numerous transmission problems, only the Mercedes dealership will take care of it. Have spent over $5000 since warranty out.

• 

  Beware of the brake! - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By David Tsuei - February 27 - 6:26 am

  This ML55 was meant for my wife, and she does love this SUV. But the biggest problem with it, is the braking system. It was a nightmare! The disc only lasted less than 10k, over the 4yrs of ownership. We have spend over $4k on the brake job alone! As I have found out that MB has one of the worst braking systems in the world, and the worst part is that they insisted there are nothing wrong with it! I strongly suggest all consumers not to purchase MB, until they resolve the problems. Most of the other problems are minimum, as it comes with all luxory cars. We drive BMWs now, its a step down. But at the least, we dont have to worry about the maintenance!

• 

  Reasonable cost-performanced car - 2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Hiro Okutsu - February 25 - 2:00 am

  This car is good choice among drivers who require standard function plus alpha (=value-added) on SUV and are seeking more simple one. The features described are telling the truth.

• 

  Cool car - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By xolilmariaxo - February 24 - 10:00 am

  I just brought the ML320 and i think it is a great car. Easy and fun to drive. I also have the SL500 and the Ml320 is more comfortable. Easy to park. Looks great in every color. Eats a lot of gas. oo the acceleration is not to great, you can push the accelerater down to the floor and the car will still go the same speed, it needs a few seconds to build up. Other then that i think its a great car.

• 

  Awesome! Suv - 2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By BIg Benz - February 20 - 2:00 am

  What to drive a fun safe SUV. This Machine is a Chunky Monkey in the snow! Runs like jack the bear down the road! Fast! Great dealers cant say enough good about these guys. ( all dealers) Have two BMWs car and dealers really suck in Ontario. However Benz is where it is at. Outstanding service never had a problem they were not happy to fix quickly. Always went above and beyond with the repairs. This is my second ML. First was a 320 01 great machine. Now an 04 Ml 500. Safe Safe Safe!

• 

  2008 ML 550 - Be careful Toyota fans - 2008 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By 2008-550MLBeast - February 18 - 9:30 pm

  Nothing less than what I expected from Mercedes. Youve done it again! Performance like Ive never seen before. Comfort plus unbelievable speed. Not for the Toyota/Lexus girls & guys.... This is way too much vehicle for you! Thank you Mercedes- Benz!

• 

  Reconsider before buying. - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By M.A. Melendez - February 17 - 10:00 am

  If I had a second chance, I would not buy it..

• 

  MERCEDES IS OVER RATED - 2013 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By TM - February 17 - 1:38 am

  Owned and driven a ML-550 for 4 years / 75000 Smooth ride on the highway. Sound level is acceptable. Expect to do repairs...truck hatch 2 times, titl steering, side window, drivers seat controls, night vision, cooling system hose, MB has quirky system deficiencies and erroneous caveats, including the remote garage door control, outside air intake to cab located on front engine hood will block easily from leaves or snow, bad odour will result must leave AC on all times, if your MB is damaged in an accident accelerated depreciation occurs like no other, This SUV is very heavy and reminds me of 1970 Oldsmobile where the weight does not match up to the braking and suspension system properly and the vehicle would sway and rock while maneuvering. Have asked MB to change the software controlling the transmission shifts to reduce the chunky down shifts that cause passengers to fall forwards in their seats. Acceleration is great. (405HP) Sport mode simply increase the idle and rpm for quicker responses to accelration. Turbo lags in normal drive and causes the vehicle to stall during quick turn arounds such as a u turn. Do not trust the vehicles sensory system to brake when in bumper to bumper traffic. Has no glass breaking sensor included with security so any thief can steal all your contents including spare key fob in glove box. Key fob comes from Munich so you pay $500 to replace..ya ya. Carry windshield glass insurance as these cost over 3k to replace. Frequency and Cost of repairs are often and very high so DO NOT OWN A MERCEDES WITHOUT WARRANTY or you will be nickeled and dimed - allow $5000/year to operate this vehicle over 6 years. MB only offers a factory 60000 kms warranty! Brake job at 30000 kms cost $3200. Tires are also 2500 at 50000kms... I beleive Mercedes is now a seriously over rated auto manufacturer. Going back to luxury GM products with 6 year 100000 warranty and $100 key fobs and $1000 brake jobs.. if your ego allows do the right thing and dont buy a Mercedes. $$$$$ in CAD.

• 

  My 2004 ML is my 4th since 1999 - 2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Jeff G Atlanta - February 15 - 10:00 am

  Most impressive, I walked away from a 55mph front end crash -- completely unhurt. Sure,it isnt perfect, but there is nothing out there -- for any price, much less the low $40,000 range that offers the safety, warranty, utility or value. Ask the BMW or Volovo dealer if they even offer a factory, extended warranty -- they dont It may not blow anyone away with styling or any other singular aspect, but once you drive one through a bad storm, youll appreciate what it does very well, which is get you where ever you need in safety and comfort.

• 

  40,000 Miles of Use - 1999 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By William Odle - February 13 - 10:00 am

  My Mercedes has been reliable and in general a joy to drive. Negatives: 1. 26,000 $900.00 brake jobs. 2. Everything done to the vehicle, not covered by warranty costs more than $400.00. 3. Rattles and squeaks. 4. Paint finish is pretty, but very poor in its ability to withstand normal road dings.