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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  Best M-Class Ever! - 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Scott Harris - July 30 - 1:43 am

  When I first drove the new M-Class I was shocked. I had never driven a vehicle, ANY vehicle, that after a test drive, I decided right then and there to buy it. The build quality is second to none. Power eveywhere you need it, at any RPM. I only wish I had waited for the AMG version with over 475 horsepower. The AMG version will be stronger and better built than the Porsche SUV, and cost less. Outstanding quality!

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  I Love my ML350 - 2005 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By ch6168 - July 22 - 10:00 am

  I love my SUV. Its roomy, comfortable, sits high. I test drove the car also, but the SUV seemed to fit better. The heated seats are great. Im looking forward to driving it in our New England winters.

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  ml32001 - 2001 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By adams2 - July 19 - 2:00 am

  The ML320 has been a great experience for me. This has been my first SUV owned and I have truly enjoyed and still is enjoying this vehicle. It handles very well (sturdy with a safe feeling). It just the perfect size and I can pretty much get around anything. Im like a vehicle with a bit more pick- up and that is my reason for possibly trading and/or selling. Other than that this is one good riding/driving vehicle.

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  DISAPPOINTING - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By NJFL - July 19 - 2:00 am

  This is the second SUV I have owned, and my first MErcedes Benz. Unless I can afford the S500, it will be my last Mercedes Benz. It is a very unreliable as parts that I have never even heard of break down with minimal notice. I have been at the repair shop so often that I know every service agent by first name. THis is a very disappointing car for the mercedes benz logo. It has destroyed almost every degree of respect I have for the brand. This comes close to being the worst item I have ever owned.

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  Drive it to Love it - 2001 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By happyinTexas - July 14 - 10:00 am

  Our first Mercedes replacing a tired Isuzu Rodeo. What a difference! Solid feel and response, while enjoying great engineering and interior fit and finish. You know that in a Mercedes, the German engineers WILL have their way with you, and some of the American frills like temp control, cruise control indicators, decent cup holders, and change on the fly CD player will have been pre thought out and arranged FOR you! Overall, however, a wonderful drive. I make my wife drive it in bad weather, because I know shes safer up high and well surrounded by a good crash cage. I would buy another in a heartbeat!

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  2003 ML350 Limited Edition "Inspiration" - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By garyroseyu - July 14 - 10:00 am

  I previously wrote a glowing review for the 2003 ML320 that I purchased Sept of 2002. Well, just when I thought it couldnt get any better, MB delivers! The "Inspiration" package is a must. What an incredible value for all those upgrades (ML55 grill, ML500 rims, AMG seats w/ Athracite Leather, Chrome Instrument Panel Rings, etc.) I noticable increase in power. The AMG seats are great with add lumbar support and full bolsters. The interior is much more sportier. This is the right choice if you are looking for class and luxury.

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  Beautiful SUV, great handling - 2005 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By ML 500 Special Ed - July 14 - 3:26 am

  This is my second ML, had the ML 320 2001 first and loved it as well. I just bought the ML 500 Special Ed and there are many improvements. My first one had some problems, but as 4 more years have passed I am hoping they have made additional improvements in reliability. There is nothing comparable out there as far as style and this time around I am finding that the car rides much quieter. The turn radius is excellent, making it very easy to park just about anywhere. I found other SUVs like the Lexus too big and bulky for what I was looking for. This SUV rides tight and handles really well! I love it! Is very luxurious inside!

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  Loved my ML 350 - 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By lgasaway - July 10 - 9:37 am

  I had my 2012 for 1 1/2 years then bought a 2014. The 2012 was so quiet and comfortable. Plenty of power, no problems of any kind. I am 68 and this is the best car that I ever had. Love it.

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  Safety, handling & value - 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By thechums - July 8 - 10:00 am

  I suppose the best way to think of an ML is that its the least "Mercedes" Mercedes. A lower quality fit and finish is an obvious compromise in getting the price to the mid $30s. First, the ML is safer than most SUVs because of superb braking, multiple airbags (my 2000 ML has six), ESP (electronic stability program), and very good handling. The cabin offers fewer frills, but really only fails in the all important cup holder department. Operationally, the biggest improvement I can think of would be a larger gas tank for a little better range and fewer fill ups.

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  Never Again - 2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By mphs - June 30 - 11:53 am

  At 60K miles, tranmission failed. Cost to repair - $7 thousand dollars. Mechanic (other than dealership) opined that he did not know why MB had not recalled them. He never drives a MB made after 2004. A total piece of junk that has put me back finacially several yrs.