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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  350 - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By res - April 11 - 2:00 am

  nice ride, a few maintenance issues no real complaints

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  Absolutely Amazing! - 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By nd - April 7 - 8:13 am

  Just bought it and I love it. It is really fun to drive. The interior is very comfortable and all components are at your fingertips. The gear shift is innovative and easy to use. I love the new design. In fact, I cant stop looking at it, and its the same for other drivers. Excellent performance. The ride is so smooth even at high speed. Engine is real quiet but purrs upon acceleration. I would recommend this car to anyone.

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  This SUV is underrated - 2008 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Rich - April 2 - 12:10 pm

  Have only had this ML320 for 5 weeks, but wow! I have had BMWs, Cadillacs and Jeeps, but nothing compares. Great to drive, unbelievable performance, and the mileage is tremendous, better than advertised. Need to get more experience with all the features, but so far, so great!

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  Avoid buying this lemon - 1998 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By JP122 - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Nothing but problems. Recalled 5 times. Electrical problems that the dealer couldnt figure out and cost me thousands. Problem solved, bought a new Lexus.

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  leaky trans - 2005 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By neepy - March 21 - 10:00 am

  2005 ml 500 sp edition.Transmission leaks after just 2000 miles , dealer replaced valve body, after two weeks , found a pool of trany fluid on the floor, back at dealer, not so sure about reliabilty , should of bought a Porsche pepper.

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  Best in Class - 1999 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Glider 8 - March 17 - 2:00 am

  A Great Everyday Vehicle which has not been fully appreciated by the auto critics.

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  What a disappointment! - 2003 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By Poughkeepsie Family - March 17 - 2:00 am

  We bought the Mercedes ML-320 with such excitement and high hopes. What a disappiontment to own a new car that keeps breaking down! Sure the dealer fixed each problem (though not the first time more than once) but the hastle of bringing the car in for repairs was significant. The car is peppy, but this seems to come at the expense of gas milage; we never acheived the EPA estimates even when driving the car gently. Yes, it has a third row of seats, but they are not convenient to use.

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  Hard Worker - 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By deboese - March 12 - 10:00 am

  Vehicle is driven daily commute and hauls my bass boat. Delievered quality was good. Minimal maintenance has been needed. Except in snow, >9 in., vehicle goes with minimal fuss. It tries its best to keep you from doing stupid things. Driving position is generally good and seats supportive. However on long drives >6 hrs. could use more thigh support. length. More than adequate power to tow my 21 bassboat (~4200 Lbs. Combat Loaded). Heater/AC is acceptable but noisy at high fan speeds. Cheap interior plastics are a put down. Off Road activity has been acceptable but not rubicon capable. The lack of a full size spare tire is not good.

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  Expected More - 2000 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By dempsy - March 12 - 10:00 am

  Overall the vehicle is a good buy if you are stepping up in class for the first time. However if you expect Mercedes quality in the M-class you will be disappointed as I was. Within the 1st year of ownership I had to return the vehicle to the dealership 3 times to fix small rattles, loose nuts etc. The breaks seem to wear more on this vehicle than any other that I have owned. Coming from a Ford Explorer I expected more from a Mercedes. If you have to go with Mercedes go with their cars, but as far as luxury SUVs their so-so.

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  This is a great automobile! - 1999 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
  By DElovesMB - March 10 - 11:36 am

  My ML 320 has never let me down. No major repairs, only routine maintenance. I have yet to see the "service engine soon" light come on. Performance, safety, and winter handling are unbeatable. This vehicle is glued to the road in any conditions! I still average 24 mpg on the highway at 70 mph (22 mpg at 80 mph)! My only complaints are with the interior. My rearview mirror adjustment knob popped off and I have not been able to find it. Well, what can you expect when the Germans hired someone else to engineer the interior? I am not disappointed, the interior it is still good, it just doesnt live up to the quality of the rest of the vehicle.