| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| Not recommended. Disappointingly crude off-roader that sells on its badge and little else. Indifferent on-road performance and cheap-feeling build construction mean it's no match for the BMW X5. |
| Handling |
 |
| Comfort |
|
| Quality & Reliability |
|
| Performance |
|
| Roominess |
|
| Running Costs |
|
| Value for Money |
|
| Stereo/Sat Nav |
|
| NCAP |
| 4 |
| Best Models |
| ML320 and ML270 CDI |
| Worst Models |
| ML500 and ML55 AMG |
| Replacement |
| 2005 |
|
 |
| Road Test |
| The M Class shouldn't really be here. It is built in America for American tastes, and in Europe it feels unpolished and rough. Old-fashioned separate chassis gives a poor ride and indifferent cornering. The cabin is large, but the plastics feel far flimsier than you would expect in a Merc. And it can't get close to a Land Rover Discovery or Mitsubishi Shogun off-road. Basic 3.2 V6 is the sweetest petrol engine, 5.0 and 5.5 V8s offer more performance but truly appalling fuel economy. 2.7 CDI turbodiesel is the best powerplant, especially when working with the optional smooth-shifting autobox. |
| Positive Points |
- Spacious and refined prestige family 4x4
- Economical and refined ML270 turbodiesel
- Well equipped and holds its value
|
| Negative Points |
- Not as good to drive as X5
- Petrol cars are thirsty with high service costs
- Seven-seaters are tight in the back
|
|
