Mercedes-Benz ML450

The M-Class is available with four different powertrains. The ML350 offers a 268-horsepower, 3.5L V6, and is available with either 4-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive. The rest of the lineup is all-wheel drive only. The ML550 gets a 382-hp, 5.0L V8, while the high-performance ML63 AMG adds a 503-hp, 6.3L hand-built V8. Across the line power is sent out via a 7-speed automatic transmission.

There's also a diesel model; the 3.0L turbo-diesel V6 in the ML350 Bluetec makes 210 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. It's rated at a frugal 18 mpg city, 24 highway. Thanks to an AdBlue exhaust treatment system, the diesel engine meets 50-state emissions rules and its generous torque rating makes it an ideal choice for towing.

With a 3.5L V6 engine plus twin electric motors, the ML450 Hybrid generates up to 275 hp and 258 pound-feet altogether. The full hybrid system is capable of using electric power only at low speeds, and the nickel-metal-hydride battery pack is mounted under the cargo floor. The Hybrid model includes a display indicating the power flow between the battery and gasoline engine.

The M-Class is primarily set up for on-road driving, but the full-time 4-wheel drive system employs open differentials and a 4-wheel traction control system can send power to just one corner when the rest of the wheels lose traction. During normal driving, the system distributes power 50/50 front to back. It also includes an Off-Road Mode, which engages a different anti-lock braking mode for loose surfaces, allows slightly more wheel slip, and makes the accelerator pedal less aggressive. The M-Class includes Downhill Speed Regulation and Hill-Start Assist to control speed on steep slopes.

On-road, the M-Class rides quite smoothly and handles reasonably well for such a tough vehicle, thanks to its 4-wheel independent suspension that includes a double wishbone front suspension and 4-link rear setup. A height-adjustable air suspension is standard on the ML63 AMG but optional on other models, while an Active Damping System allows four different setting from comfort to sport.

The M-Class is extremely well equipped for occupant protection, including front side airbags, head-protecting window curtain airbags for front and rear occupants, stability control, anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist and a rollover sensor system. Available feature include POST-SAFE, which automatically unlocks the doors and shuts off the engine and fuel system after an accident.

The M-Class is strictly a 5-passenger vehicle, but it has plenty of space for adults in back, along with adequate cargo space. All M-Class models include a long list of conveniences such as power seats, cruise control, dual heated mirrors, a sunroof and keyless entry, while ML550 models add heated seats, rain-sensor wipers, running boards, Burl Walnut trim, and upgraded brakes. The ML63 AMG brings even larger brakes, the Airmatic suspension, special Nappa leather and aerodynamic bodywork.

The options list is extensive on the M-Class, and includes Bi-Xenon curve-illuminating headlamps, Parktronic, a power liftgate, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, Bluetooth, Keyless Go, a rear-seat entertainment system and a harman/kardon Logic 7 premium audio system

Close this

Mercedes-Benz ML550

The first M Class, which was in production from the 1998 model year through 2005, was one of the first midsize luxury SUVs from a prestige brand. Based on a truck chassis, the new SUV premiered as a six-cylinder equipped ML320 and an eight-cylinder ML 430. First built in Austria and later in Alabama, the M-Class vehicle was the first in its class to offer electronic stability control, and with a plethora of airbags, it earned high marks for safety. Unfortunately, it did not win high marks for quality, with many fit and finish problems reported. A diesel version was sold in states where emission standards didn't exclude it. 

The second-generation of the M Class, which first appeared during the 2006 model year with ML350 and ML500 nameplates, was an entirely different brand of Benz. Built on a passenger-car-like unitized body/chassis unit, it was both lighter and more rigid. Consequently it was far more nimble on twisty bits of road than the earlier vehicle, and its ride was much improved as well. The cabin, previously rather spartan for an M-B, was now tastefully trimmed with wood and aluminum. More importantly, the quality problems that beset the first version were resolved in the redesign of the vehicle and an updating of the manufacturing plant

Today, the range includes four models. The standard gasoline-engine vehicles are the 268-horsepower V-6-equipped ML350 and the 382-horsepower V-8-powered ML550. For those who wish to get as fuel frugal as possible in an M-B SUV, there's the ML320, which comes with a clean and quiet blueTEC diesel. For those who aren't particular about fuel economy but want to get to junior's soccer game as quickly as possible, there's a 503-horsepower ML63 AMG super SUV. That kind of oomph can make a sport utility vehicle live up to the sporty part of its name.

While SUVs overall have taken a bad rap in the press, the midsize Mercedes M Class offers a combination of luxury, style and prestige that is difficult to match with any other midsize SUV.

Mercedes-Benz ML350

The first M Class, which was in production from the 1998 model year through 2005, was one of the first midsize luxury SUVs from a prestige brand. Based on a truck chassis, the new SUV premiered as a six-cylinder equipped ML320 and an eight-cylinder ML 430. First built in Austria and later in Alabama, the M-Class vehicle was the first in its class to offer electronic stability control, and with a plethora of airbags, it earned high marks for safety. Unfortunately, it did not win high marks for quality, with many fit and finish problems reported. A diesel version was sold in states where emission standards didn't exclude it. 

The second-generation of the M Class, which first appeared during the 2006 model year with ML350 and ML500 nameplates, was an entirely different brand of Benz. Built on a passenger-car-like unitized body/chassis unit, it was both lighter and more rigid. Consequently it was far more nimble on twisty bits of road than the earlier vehicle, and its ride was much improved as well. The cabin, previously rather spartan for an M-B, was now tastefully trimmed with wood and aluminum. More importantly, the quality problems that beset the first version were resolved in the redesign of the vehicle and an updating of the manufacturing plant

Today, the range includes four models. The standard gasoline-engine vehicles are the 268-horsepower V-6-equipped ML350 and the 382-horsepower V-8-powered ML550. For those who wish to get as fuel frugal as possible in an M-B SUV, there's the ML320, which comes with a clean and quiet blueTEC diesel. For those who aren't particular about fuel economy but want to get to junior's soccer game as quickly as possible, there's a 503-horsepower ML63 AMG super SUV. That kind of oomph can make a sport utility vehicle live up to the sporty part of its name.

While SUVs overall have taken a bad rap in the press, the midsize Mercedes M Class offers a combination of luxury, style and prestige that is difficult to match with any other midsize SUV.

Mercedes-Benz ML400

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class is available in four different models: the ML350, ML250 BlueTEC diesel, ML400 and high-performance ML63 AMG. The ML350 is standard with rear-wheel drive, with optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive, while 4MATIC is standard on the rest of the range.

The ML350 comes with a 3.5L, 60-degree V6 with high-pressure direct injection, which results in 302 horsepower. The ML250 BlueTEC features a 2.1L turbocharged diesel 4-cylinder that delivers 200 horsepower and an impressive 369 foot-pounds of torque. The ML400, meanwhile, benefits from a 329-horsepower turbocharged 3.0L V6, while the ML63 moves courtesy of a hand-built 5.5L twin-turbocharged V8 making 518 horsepower and 516 foot-pounds of torque. All M-Class engines are mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

The ML250 BlueTEC includes special electronically adjustable hydraulic engine mounts that make the driving experience far smoother than virtually any other diesel. The ML63 AMG will run from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, with a top speed of 174 mph. It comes with details such as a carbon fiber engine cover, painted brake calipers and a special steering wheel.

The M-Class models have only two rows of seating and can accommodate up to five adults. They're packaged much like other SUVs, which is to say that rear seatbacks fold forward -- along with the lower cushions here -- to expand the cargo space up to 71 cubic feet. When the center position of the back seat isn't being used, there's a fold-down center armrest and cupholder. All four outboard positions in the M-Class are excellent and supportive -- contoured for adults and comfortable enough for all-day travel. Upholstery is available either in a combination of MB Tex synthetic and a microfiber or in leather.

Ride quality of the M-Class is smooth, quiet and absorbent, yet steering response is quite sharp. Among the M-Class' many active and passive safety features offered are Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, a Night View Assist night-vision system with pedestrian detection, Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, a Pre-Safe Brake system that will help brake if a collision is anticipated and a special lighting package. Attention Assist studies patterns in the driver's fine steering adjustments, can identify fatigue and drowsiness, chiming and flashing a coffee cup icon on the instrument panel.

Mercedes-Benz' COMAND screen-based interface is standard, including a 7-inch display, Bluetooth audio and hands-free calling, cover-art display, a USB port and a 6-disc changer. Meanwhile, the instrument cluster has its own reconfigurable, 4.5-inch display. With the Premium I Package, a navigation system with 3D city models and Sirius traffic and weather integration is included. A special dealer-installed iPad docking station also lets an iPad integrate with the audio system

Mercedes-Benz GLK250

The GLK350 comes in rear-wheel and 4MATIC 4-wheel drive. Both include a 302-horsepower, direct-injected 3.5L V6 and 7-speed automatic transmission. According to Mercedes-Benz, 0-to-60 mph comes in 6.5 seconds, and the powertrain delivers 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway (24 mpg on 4MATIC models). The GLK250 BlueTEC is offered only in 4MATIC 4-wheel drive and is powered by a 2.1L twin-turbo 4-cylinder engine. This engine makes 200 horsepower and a whopping 369 pound-feet of torque. With this engine, the GLK-Class is capable of an EPA-estimated 33 mpg on the highway.

The GLK-Class is intended primarily for on-road duty, with a 4-wheel independent suspension that's tuned for a sporty feel on the road. But if called upon, it does have the ground clearance and skid plates for modest off-roading and sure-footed all-weather driving. The 4MATIC system reverts to sending 55 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels under normal conditions and works with the stability control system to help maintain traction and stability.

The cabin of the GLK-Class was designed to provide a high level of adjustability for the driver, with a comfortable position possible for those 6-feet or taller. In back, head restraints can be adjusted for height and tilt and legroom and headroom are adequate for adults. The back seats can be folded forward to increase the cargo area from 23.3 cubic feet up to 54.7 cubic feet and a total of nearly 66 inches of length, for large items. The cargo area also includes coat hooks, bag hooks, a light and an extra power outlet.

With an overall length of just 178 inches and an upright seating position, the GLK-Class is very maneuverable in city driving and easy to park thanks to short overhangs and compact design. Despite its sharp features, the GLK-Class has some of the best aerodynamics among SUVs, according to Mercedes-Benz. The slippery nature of the GLK-Class helps reduce wind noise at highway speeds and improve fuel economy.

Standard features on the GLK-Class include LED running lights, dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, power front seats, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, an 8-speaker MP3-compatible CD sound system with weather band, an auxiliary input and 19-inch alloy wheels, though flashier 20-inch 7-spoke wheels are available. Real sienna pine wood trim is also included.

As is expected from Mercedes-Benz, safety features are abundant. Front side-impact airbags, head-protecting curtain bags, knee airbags, pelvic airbags and active front head restraints are all on the list of those offered on the GLK-Class, as are anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic stability control with a trailer stabilization function.

A number of option packages group extras together. Among the most noteworthy are the Premium Package, which combines a panoramic sunroof, satellite and HD radio and a power liftgate. A Lighting Package includes bi-xenon headlamps with adaptive lighting and corner-illuminating fog lamps. The Multimedia Package includes a navigation system, 600-watt harman/kardon surround sound system, a 7-inch display, a 6GB music hard drive and a voice-control interface. Standalone options include heated seats, a Parktronic parking sensors, running boards and a rear-seat entertainment system. The AMG Sport Package features special AMG-styled bumpers, 20-inch wheels and aluminum roof rails

Mercedes-Benz GLK350

The GLK350 comes in rear-wheel and 4MATIC 4-wheel drive. Both include a 302-horsepower, direct-injected 3.5L V6 and 7-speed automatic transmission. According to Mercedes-Benz, 0-to-60 mph comes in 6.5 seconds, and the powertrain delivers 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway (24 mpg on 4MATIC models). The GLK250 BlueTEC is offered only in 4MATIC 4-wheel drive and is powered by a 2.1L twin-turbo 4-cylinder engine. This engine makes 200 horsepower and a whopping 369 pound-feet of torque. With this engine, the GLK-Class is capable of an EPA-estimated 33 mpg on the highway.

The GLK-Class is intended primarily for on-road duty, with a 4-wheel independent suspension that's tuned for a sporty feel on the road. But if called upon, it does have the ground clearance and skid plates for modest off-roading and sure-footed all-weather driving. The 4MATIC system reverts to sending 55 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels under normal conditions and works with the stability control system to help maintain traction and stability.

The cabin of the GLK-Class was designed to provide a high level of adjustability for the driver, with a comfortable position possible for those 6-feet or taller. In back, head restraints can be adjusted for height and tilt and legroom and headroom are adequate for adults. The back seats can be folded forward to increase the cargo area from 23.3 cubic feet up to 54.7 cubic feet and a total of nearly 66 inches of length, for large items. The cargo area also includes coat hooks, bag hooks, a light and an extra power outlet.

With an overall length of just 178 inches and an upright seating position, the GLK-Class is very maneuverable in city driving and easy to park thanks to short overhangs and compact design. Despite its sharp features, the GLK-Class has some of the best aerodynamics among SUVs, according to Mercedes-Benz. The slippery nature of the GLK-Class helps reduce wind noise at highway speeds and improve fuel economy.

Standard features on the GLK-Class include LED running lights, dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, power front seats, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, an 8-speaker MP3-compatible CD sound system with weather band, an auxiliary input and 19-inch alloy wheels, though flashier 20-inch 7-spoke wheels are available. Real sienna pine wood trim is also included.

As is expected from Mercedes-Benz, safety features are abundant. Front side-impact airbags, head-protecting curtain bags, knee airbags, pelvic airbags and active front head restraints are all on the list of those offered on the GLK-Class, as are anti-lock brakes with brake assist and electronic stability control with a trailer stabilization function.

A number of option packages group extras together. Among the most noteworthy are the Premium Package, which combines a panoramic sunroof, satellite and HD radio and a power liftgate. A Lighting Package includes bi-xenon headlamps with adaptive lighting and corner-illuminating fog lamps. The Multimedia Package includes a navigation system, 600-watt harman/kardon surround sound system, a 7-inch display, a 6GB music hard drive and a voice-control interface. Standalone options include heated seats, a Parktronic parking sensors, running boards and a rear-seat entertainment system. The AMG Sport Package features special AMG-styled bumpers, 20-inch wheels and aluminum roof rails

Mercedes-Benz ML250

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class is available in four different models: the ML350, ML250 BlueTEC diesel, ML400 and high-performance ML63 AMG. The ML350 is standard with rear-wheel drive, with optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive, while 4MATIC is standard on the rest of the range.

The ML350 comes with a 3.5L, 60-degree V6 with high-pressure direct injection, which results in 302 horsepower. The ML250 BlueTEC features a 2.1L turbocharged diesel 4-cylinder that delivers 200 horsepower and an impressive 369 foot-pounds of torque. The ML400, meanwhile, benefits from a 329-horsepower turbocharged 3.0L V6, while the ML63 moves courtesy of a hand-built 5.5L twin-turbocharged V8 making 518 horsepower and 516 foot-pounds of torque. All M-Class engines are mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

The ML250 BlueTEC includes special electronically adjustable hydraulic engine mounts that make the driving experience far smoother than virtually any other diesel. The ML63 AMG will run from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, with a top speed of 174 mph. It comes with details such as a carbon fiber engine cover, painted brake calipers and a special steering wheel.

The M-Class models have only two rows of seating and can accommodate up to five adults. They're packaged much like other SUVs, which is to say that rear seatbacks fold forward -- along with the lower cushions here -- to expand the cargo space up to 71 cubic feet. When the center position of the back seat isn't being used, there's a fold-down center armrest and cupholder. All four outboard positions in the M-Class are excellent and supportive -- contoured for adults and comfortable enough for all-day travel. Upholstery is available either in a combination of MB Tex synthetic and a microfiber or in leather.

Ride quality of the M-Class is smooth, quiet and absorbent, yet steering response is quite sharp. Among the M-Class' many active and passive safety features offered are Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, a Night View Assist night-vision system with pedestrian detection, Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control, a Pre-Safe Brake system that will help brake if a collision is anticipated and a special lighting package. Attention Assist studies patterns in the driver's fine steering adjustments, can identify fatigue and drowsiness, chiming and flashing a coffee cup icon on the instrument panel.

Mercedes-Benz' COMAND screen-based interface is standard, including a 7-inch display, Bluetooth audio and hands-free calling, cover-art display, a USB port and a 6-disc changer. Meanwhile, the instrument cluster has its own reconfigurable, 4.5-inch display. With the Premium I Package, a navigation system with 3D city models and Sirius traffic and weather integration is included. A special dealer-installed iPad docking station also lets an iPad integrate with the audio system