Since the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, many other premium automakers have entered the midsize luxury SUV market attempting to dethrone the king of the hill. And Mercedes-Benz has responded with constant improvements to its midsize SUV over the years, including increased feature content and performance, updated styling and attempts to address the various quality issues plaguing early models.
Despite Mercedes' efforts, however, the original truck-based M-Class was starting to show its age against better-dressed and better-handling car-based SUV competition. So, after eight years on the same aging platform, Mercedes finally reached for a much-needed clean sheet of paper for the second-generation M-Class, which debuted for the 2006 model year. The resulting second-generation M-Class models are more powerful, better-handling and loaded with upscale features. They're also roomier inside for legs and shoulders: 6 inches longer and 2 inches wider, and riding on a 4-inch-longer wheelbase than the old ML. There are presently four distinct Mercedes-Benz M-Class models: ML320 CDI, ML350, ML550 and ML63 AMG.
Though it has less ground clearance than the original, the current M-Class' unibody chassis is also stiffer, lighter and better able to deliver the ride quality expected of a Mercedes-Benz intended primarily for use on pavement. Additionally, the second-gen ML offers a more aggressive stance and a more stable platform for powering its permanent 4WD system.
The design of the cabin isn't radically different, but thanks to its extra dimensions, the current M-Class has an airy feel that the old ML lacked. The quality of materials is much improved, and there are large expanses of wood and aluminum trim, as you'd expect in a vehicle with a base price in the $40Ks.
One of the most noticeable changes inside is the lack of a console-mounted shifter, replaced by a small control stalk on the steering column to make room for American-size cupholders.
The original ML caught a wave of SUV popularity and rode it out longer than even Mercedes could have hoped. But even though there are now many worthy competitors in the premium SUV segment, we think the M-Class' combination of cutting-edge safety features, satisfyingly sure-footed on-road performance and bountiful creature comforts will keep it high on shoppers' lists.
Despite Mercedes' efforts, however, the original truck-based M-Class was starting to show its age against better-dressed and better-handling car-based SUV competition. So, after eight years on the same aging platform, Mercedes finally reached for a much-needed clean sheet of paper for the second-generation M-Class, which debuted for the 2006 model year. The resulting second-generation M-Class models are more powerful, better-handling and loaded with upscale features. They're also roomier inside for legs and shoulders: 6 inches longer and 2 inches wider, and riding on a 4-inch-longer wheelbase than the old ML. There are presently four distinct Mercedes-Benz M-Class models: ML320 CDI, ML350, ML550 and ML63 AMG.
Though it has less ground clearance than the original, the current M-Class' unibody chassis is also stiffer, lighter and better able to deliver the ride quality expected of a Mercedes-Benz intended primarily for use on pavement. Additionally, the second-gen ML offers a more aggressive stance and a more stable platform for powering its permanent 4WD system.The design of the cabin isn't radically different, but thanks to its extra dimensions, the current M-Class has an airy feel that the old ML lacked. The quality of materials is much improved, and there are large expanses of wood and aluminum trim, as you'd expect in a vehicle with a base price in the $40Ks.
One of the most noticeable changes inside is the lack of a console-mounted shifter, replaced by a small control stalk on the steering column to make room for American-size cupholders.The original ML caught a wave of SUV popularity and rode it out longer than even Mercedes could have hoped. But even though there are now many worthy competitors in the premium SUV segment, we think the M-Class' combination of cutting-edge safety features, satisfyingly sure-footed on-road performance and bountiful creature comforts will keep it high on shoppers' lists.
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