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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  gas guzzler - 2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By road rat - November 29 - 1:33 pm

  I liked the 2006 ML so much I got a 2009 ML when my lease was up. The 2009 gas mileage averages around 10mpg in the city and 15mpg on the hwy. Compared to 15mpg in city and 22 mpg that i got with the 2006. The handling on the 2006 was great and fun to drive, the 2009 doesnt have steering with as much feel, it feels more like a bus. No feedback. I think the steering wheel is also bigger in this year but not sure. THe fake leather seats do not compare to the comfort of the leather seats i had previously. THe rear bumper design with the color coating is really dumb but a good way for the dealers to make extra money when you turn in the car. It scratches easily

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  Its an acquired taste - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By MB&Caddy - November 25 - 8:00 pm

  Ive owned my ML500 for 5 months now. Coming from my 01 Seville STS, was a change of course. Overall I think the vehicle hits the mark. Not perfect, but what vehicle is. Gas mileage is decent, but this is my 2nd V8 in 5 yrs so Im used to the gas guzzling. Off the line snap is good enough to put you back in your seat. First trip was to Gatlinburg, TN and the MB was nothing but solid. Had to dial down the cruise in the mountains, it kept accelerating. Solid, comfortable, great view in traffic and a huge sunroof. Slips in and out of traffic and parking is a breeze, waiting for first real experience w/ bad weather. This thing shrugs off rain and wind like its nothing.

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  Absolutely the BEST - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By GTL - November 24 - 10:00 am

  If youre reading the negative comments posted here and wondering wether or not to buy an ML, trust me...... BUY ONE. This has got to be one of the best driving vehicles I have ever driven. After over a year of owning my ML 320, I still giggle at how smoothly, quietly, and comfortably this vechicle really is. I have owned other SUVs and believe me, there is no comparison. You have to experience it to understand.

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  Definite upgrade over ML350 - 2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By markss2 - November 23 - 9:37 pm

  Traded in my 2012 ML350 and wanted more power and features. ML400 delivers both. New MB 6 cylinder turbo is much more powerful at any RPM. Its not quite an 8, but gets better fuel economy than the regular 6 in the ML350. This engine is a new gem in the MB lineup. The ML400 adds a bunch of features standard, plus I ordered AMG wheels, halogen lights, panoramic roof, cooled seats and a few more. If you like the ML350, youll love the ML400. More money, but definitely more fun to drive. You may find a better value SUV, but the ML400 is tops in performance, ride quality and overall quality. Happy I stepped up.

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  Mercedes ML320 - 2001 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Bedford - November 22 - 10:00 am

  This is my second ML320 and both have been as good as anyone could expect from an automobile both in performance and trouble free operation. It is not an AWD (all wheel drive vehicle) instead it has permanent 4 wheel drive with a low range. Since the 2005 MLs will be uni-body construction with no low range, I am purchasing a Mercedes G500 within the year.

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  ML500 Sport - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Rosenblum - November 19 - 10:00 am

  I went with the sport package and put aftermarket 295s with lowenhart rims, looks great with tinted windows. The Nav system is great once you figure out how to use it. Bose is fair. The small radio and Nav controls are a friggin joke. They have to make the car safe because you stand a great chance of having an accident while you change radio stations. Ive had two service problems.Wish I went for the AMG to get the bigger engine.

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  POOR CRAFTMANSHIP - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Nathaniel - November 19 - 10:00 am

  I had my SUV for 3 months and been to deeler couple of times due to poor product design: First the astray failed and have to keep the car overnight co, they have to take apart the median console area. Second the driver side sealer pop out they to replace the section that hold the fancy mercedes name as you step in the car. But its fun to drive, the luxury feature are great then again it drink gas. Overall Im happy, as long little things will hold.

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  2007 ML500 - 2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By FredinMD - November 15 - 11:46 pm

  Purchase based on one criteria: Im 65" and fit comfortably. With the seat all the way back, I can barely reach the gas. My previous vehicles were Suburbans/Denalis but GM lowered to roof line so my line of sight was the sun visor! ML500 exceeds my expectations. I was concerned about comments re: navigation; it has some Teutonic quirks, kind of like a Siemens cell phone I had, but its great and I like that it recalculates the route when you choose to deviate rather than chastise you to turn around, like some systems do. If BMW hadnt reduced drivers cabin space length in 07 for the sake of the ridiculously little 3rd row seats, probably would have gone with X5, but I couldnt be happier.

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  Dont do it! - 2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By dan_the_man1 - November 15 - 6:16 am

  My wife and I purchased a 2004 MB 350 with 32,000 miles on it, thinking we would have a high quality vehicle for many years. We were half right. The vehicle is now ten years old and we have had one problem after another. At 52,000 miles the water pump broke. MB would not stand behind it. Shortly thereafter, we discovered the power steering was leaking. The bearing in the front wheel drive needs to be replaced. Now a light module is defective, discharging the battery almost daily. Its been one problem after another. Buy a Lexus or Acura!

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  The new ML-350 is fun to drive - 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Shawn - November 12 - 1:30 pm

  The new ML looks sharp inside out. I traded my 2003 E-320 for the new ML-350 and just love it.