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 in Orlando, Florida - 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By CENTRAL FLORIDA - March 15 - 2:56 pm

  Umprecedented riding for an ML Class. Impossible to compare to the previous ML, but the Air Ride is a must if you want to have fun. Almost noiseless at 70 mph compared to my previous Lexus RX 330 (04). The interior plastic is disapointing for a Mercedes. I paid 65K (fully loaded). The vehicle is a firm 4x4 under heavy rain. I have with the AMG package which is $4K more, but gives an amazing different appearance from the regular ML 350. More interior leather would help the poor plastic interior( a Chrysler feature). The music component and the rear entertaiment system are a plus to keep the children quiet. The cargo space is almost double of the Lexus RX 330. Gas: 18/22 so far.

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  Not my Favorite - 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Candi - March 9 - 9:13 am

  Ive always owned BMWs, this is my first Mercedes Benz. I must say I prefer BMW over Benz. I like the drive but the seats are not comfortable they dont recline very well. I am starting to have multiples of problems from simple things as the window switch needs replacing to the radiator and now the brake control unit which is expensive. Im trying to now sell this car but Im afraid someone will be disappointed when they have to maintain it. But its cute!

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  Mercedes Aint What They Used To Be - 1998 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Dennis Hupp - February 28 - 2:00 am

  First year or 2 had very few minor, but annoying problems -- glove box wouldnt close properly (still does not) and loose knob for adjusting the drivers seat back. Then fuel pump broke in 3rd year at 24,000 miles. Defective dealer workmanship resulted in 2nd fuel pump replacement less than a year later. At 31,000 miles and 4 1/2 years (after warranty expired) the fuel tank started leaking and needed to be replaced ($1,500.00). What do the commercials say about Mercedes quality engineering???? Give me a Toyota Highlander, Acura MDX, or a Lexus RX- 300 instead.

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  KING OF SUVS - 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Adam - February 25 - 5:40 pm

  I bought this car when it first came out and I loved it. but after a month something went wrong with the airmatic so I had to return it for a new one. I just love the ML i got its fully loaded with everything and i think it is just great. This is the King of SUVs.

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  Passed By - 2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Frank - February 21 - 3:50 am

  This Mercedes was good in its day but has been far exceeded by the likes of Lexus, and BMW. Gas mileage is horrible. You can expect 17-18 at best on long trips, 11 to 12 around town. For the same price you are better off with the E-350 4 matic which will deliver 24-25 mpg. The navigation although accurate is ancient (look at the Lexus) Youll think your comparing a video game from 1995 to 2005. Unfortunately the new Mercedes ML is not much better.Youll also find operating the navigation consists of moving a joy stick. Unfortunately this has also carried over to the new ML. Pretty stupid! Electronics and comfort features are deffinately not Mercedes strengths. Also braking is heavy.

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  ML 350 Experience - 2005 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Hans - February 7 - 9:16 pm

  We have the car 2 years now, so far no technical problems. This is second Mercedes, the first one being an E320 4Matic. We came into the dealer to buy a C240 4Matic, but when my wife saw the 350, she was attracted to it. The price was very attractive so after a short test drive we decided to go for it. In retrospect, I kick myself for making such a spontaneous decision. The car is no comparision to the smoothness of the E320. This one feels really like a truck. But my main issues with the car are the engine and the fuel economy. The engine does not feel and sound like a Mercedes engine, it is underpowered and noisy, awful. Fuel consumption is horrible. Never will buy again.

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  Lemonaid? - 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By TexanTrue - February 7 - 12:23 pm

  Great looks and comfort, but in one year has been in the shop 4 times for a total of a month with all kinds of mechanical and electrical troubles. New steering rack, new rear suspension, rear deck closer, thumping into downshift at stops in tranny (numerous software updates), a 6- year old Navigation DVD supplied making Navigation system useless, rattles in body. Pages and pages of campaigns to fix mistakes in build each time I bring it in, but at least they fix it free and give a nice M-B loan car. But when its working, its a dream, and Ill buy the new Diesel ML-320 CDI version soon.

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  Never again - 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Bengali - February 5 - 2:00 am

  Wanted to keep the vehicle for 1-10 years. On an average very yaer had to take to delare with issues like malfunction of radio or power windows or leak in gas pump etc evry 6 montsh isn teh first 2 years. Letley its been every 3-4 monthe we have had teh car breaking down. We are past teh warranty peiod so its comes out of our pocket to fix the vehicle. Have complained to no vail to Beck Imports.

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  Save Your Money - 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Garfield - January 30 - 6:50 pm

  Bought the ML 320 because of the name. However I donated the car today because you look pretty stupid sitting on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck to flatbed your SUV away. I had the car regularly serviced whenever the wrenches appear on the dash. App cost each time $400 - $800. Service was great until mileage got to around 80K. They tried to get me to buy a new car and when I balked problems began. I wont outline but I spent more than $6000 in repairs during the last 6 months trying to save the car and avoid a new car payment. Save yourself the hassle and buy a Toyota. I donated my ML 320 to charity so at least something good came out of it.

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  The Best ML 500 ever - 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Louis - January 26 - 2:46 pm

  I had a 2002 BMW X5 4.4 and it was a nice SUV, but it doesnt compare to this new ML500. The quality of the ride, the comfort, performance and fun to drive. We love the changes that were made to the styling of the new ML.