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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  Fun to drive to ski and hiking - 1999 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By cmiao_98 - June 19 - 10:00 am

  very comfort to drive, especially in the snow area, and mountain side. excellent control in downhill condition. Just fun to drive in all weather conditions.

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  Piece of Junk.... - 2001 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By mograce - June 19 - 10:00 am

  I bought this SUV on May 21 and had to take it in 3xs for the same problem- accelerator hesitation. When I would mash on the accelerator, it would hesitate for a few seconds and then take off. They replaced parts on all ocassions and the problem still existed. I took it back this past weekend and the dealership paid me what I had bought the SUV for and I traded it in and bought a Yukon. I just assumed that since this was a Mercedes, that it wouldnt be a piece of junk and that it was of high quality, but the joke was on me. I could see that I was headed for a life of misery with this SUV and am grateful that I was able to get out of it.

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  Smooth and solid - 2008 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By oliverp - June 16 - 2:13 pm

  After 1700 miles I can say this is a solid, safe, smooth package. The V6 turbo diesel, 7 speed transmission and AWD are a remarkable combination. The engine stays between 1,200 and 2,200 rpm most of the time, and with barely noticeable shifts or sound. The transmission provides engine braking automatically. Air suspension is adaptable and smooth. I drove up and down snowy, unplowed hilly roads all day yesterday without slips or slides, mostly in the Airmatic raised position. Surprisingly tight turning radius. Mileage 22-25 mixed Seating is very comfortable and interior appointments (brushed aluminum/ ultrasuede) are striking. Nice cargo management system. No defects at 1750 miles.

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  Love the SUV - 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By tiger2doll - June 5 - 10:00 am

  Very elegent and powerful SUV. A definite Headturner. Afterall - a Mercedes is a Mercedes. Nothing compares to it. Someone has rightly said - Life is too short and the roads too long to drive anything else except a Mercedes-Benz. Lots of Safety features - comfortable interior seating surfaces. Very nice and thoughtful small features. Love the SUV.

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  In love - 2014 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Margaret Dietz - June 3 - 5:43 am

  I have loved this car from the minute I got it. Love the handling, safety and sense of protection that I have driving this vehicle. My only, only problem is lack of a remote starter in the cold winter months. I would love to enter a nice, warm cozy car. Perhaps this is an option but since I leased I didnt want to have one installed and fiddle with the electric components of the car.

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  Love our ML - 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By etherboy - June 1 - 2:32 pm

  Bought the ML after testdriving X5, Lexus 470, LR4, and QX56..were actually on way to buy QX when we decided to just look at the ML. Test drove the 350 and took it home to see how it would accommodate our family roadtrip needs..perfect. When we ordered, only the 350 was available but was able to upgrade to the 550 a day later. Its awesome..a real sleeper. Steering not nearly as precise as the X5 but better than the QX. The safety features by far exceed any of the other SUVs we tested. Exterior not very sexy..would prefer a Cayenne or X5 or even the QX but for a family tourer with performance the ML550 is hard to beat! And we get 19.5 mpg average.

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  A Rocket on 4 wheels - 2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By sprsnic - June 1 - 11:13 am

  This is the ultimate SUV. It is super fast (4.6 to 60), luxurious, comfortable, and has the looks too.

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  built to endure ... - 1998 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By trw - May 31 - 10:00 am

  ml review .. i have owned 7 x mbz vehicles and at this time own 2. the ml has been all would expect from mbz, in its ride, durability, and performance. i have never had ONE problem with the 2 mls have owned, (sold the 1st at 123,000 miles) and would not hesitate to recommend one to others. it is a vehicle ready to perform, road ready as well as crash ready. having owned everything from 300ds through 430clk models, i have to call the ml a true merc. NOTE, I WONDER WHY THERE IS NO US MODEL ML WITH THE FOREVER RUNNING INLINE 6 DIESEL ENGINE.?? this would truly be a vehicle to own. FYI I HAVE AN ASSOCIATE WITH A ML 98 MDL THAT HAS JUST TURNED 232,000 MILES.

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  Best Vehicle Ever - 2001 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Sherlock - May 31 - 10:00 am

  Its a luxury car with the cargo room of a van. The TeleAid Service is a life saver. I found out last week when my battery finally went dead in a dark, isolated area and I had forgotten my cell phone. Their first concern was for my safety and well being and then wanted to make calls for me since I had no phone. Help arrived within 10 minutes and replaced my battery for free. When I bought this luxury vehicle I also bought luxury roadside assistance.

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  A sad attempt. Never purchase a MB. - 1999 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Edwin - May 30 - 10:56 pm

  I have had so many problems with My 1999 ML430 (98K miles), I want to cry. Its been a very, very, troublesome vehicle from the day I bought it. My current stable is made up a BMW 3 series and Volvo S80 (as well as the ML430). The Mercedes has easily had twice (if not thrice) the amount of issues of both my other vehicles combined. Not to mention one of the poorest after sales service dealers I have ever encountered with a cost of ownership that is stifling.