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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  Great SUV--but not cheap! - 2010 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Brad - October 17 - 7:33 am

  We sold a 2006 Pathfinder SE 4x4 for the ML350 4matic. So far, we are extremely pleased with ride quality, comfort and overall ergonomics. The cargo area is plenty big (almost as big as the Pathfinder with the 3rd row folded down), and the standard features are all very nice (well, with Package 1). With options, it came out to nearly $56K MSRP, which is a bit high, considering you can get a comparably equipped and styled MDX or Lexus for a few $$ cheaper. But overall, we are pleased with the styling, performance, and ride...and it has the latest and greatest safety features, which makes me feel comfortable when the wife and kids are out without me.

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  Awsome Benz - 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Ken E - September 27 - 6:53 pm

  This is an awesome SUV. It truly rides like a car, handles corners well, and the ride feels like floating on air. The power of this new engine is astonishing, a slight press on the gas pedal, and you can feel yourself being pulled by the 350 engine.

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  Great SUV for MB Enthusiasts - 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By RL_Terry - September 26 - 3:43 pm

  Ever since I saw Jurassic Park II: The Lost World, I have wanted the Mercedes ML. I think the gas mileage is superior to that of other similar sized SUVs. Out of all the SUVs I have owned (Blazer, Explorer, and Envoy), the ML320 by far has the best gas mileage. I average 19-20mpg in town and 27-58mpg on the interstate. If you own an SUV, do not compare the gas mileage to that of a sedan or coupe- obviously the fuel economy will not be as efficient. The spartan interior is a very simple yet elegant design; however, I do find the CD change in the rear a bit on the inconvenient side. Its stylish, comfortable, and a Mercedes; what more could a 24 year-old want. I would reccommend this SUV.

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  99 vs 2003 - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By OBIE - September 26 - 10:00 am

  We traded in a 1999 ML 320. We did have some problems with it. Fuel pump, Power Steering hose and Transponder. We really like this one much better.

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  I love my ML500 - 2005 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By John - September 25 - 7:26 am

  I have 12,000 miles on my ML500SE and like it better than any other I have owned including BMW X5-4.4, Landcruiser, and Range Rover 4.6HSE. Fast, quiet and comfortable. Love the Sirius radio and Nav system. Fit and finish are great and have not had it any for any type of service.

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  sick of it - 2001 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By sick of it - September 14 - 2:00 am

  at first I was in love with it but after about 5/6 months things started to go wrong..the window switch broke twice,the sunroof would not close, the tires were losing air ALL the time,the driver seat became uncomfortable,the sound system would crap out,the lights would dim,the glove compartment door latch broke twice,the cup holders are a joke, and when it comes down to performance, I always feel "uneasy" when driving on a parkway at high speeds and turning..fells like it might tip..handles GREAT in the snow though, but crappy in the rain..seems very "delicate" and minor repairs are very expensive.I simply can not wait to get rid of it.

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  Pocket Rocket - 2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By gajeffo - September 14 - 1:43 am

  Well Im still OK with this car. Just put new tires on it, Toyo Proxys, and it seems to have gotten rid of the road noise. The Dunlops stink! They just seem to be way too soft and as they got some age on them the ride was terrible, bouncing and swaying everywhere. This car has had zero problems mechanically and the dealership replaced the 2 back side panels as the clearcoat was coming off. (each side of the rear glass) I still think that for the money Mercedes could put a little more into this vehicle. ie: lumbar, power tilt and telescopic wheel. But go see if your Lexus can move like this!

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  ML gets bad rap by reviewers - 2005 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Robert - September 12 - 7:50 am

  Great performance...this is my third ML...first one bought in 1998.. second in 1999....great improvements since first introduced...I get better gas mileage than listed by ratings... 350 engine is great.. great highway vehicle...I have put over 350000 miles on three MLs since 1998

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  Wow!! - 2010 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By MBat40 - September 11 - 9:16 pm

  I only have about 900 miles on this SUV so far, but its been the best 900 miles Ive ever driven. Granted, I traded in my 99 Jeep Grand Cherokee with 104,00 miles on it, but still, what a difference. Its like going from sitting in coach to first class. I look forward to driving it everyday. Its such a smooth and solid ride you have to be impressed. Its a much more luxurious ride than the BMW X5 I test drove, which was fun and sporty, but not the comfort I was looking for. Its hard to comment on reliability with only 900 miles on it, but so far so good.

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  Got mine a week after they hit the road - 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By stan - September 8 - 8:13 am

  I love it. Handling is amazing.The whole feel of the car, and I say car, feels so much better then the old ML. Go out and get one!