The first Mercedes M-Class vehicle was designed in 1997 as the W163 or the original ML. This vehicle was developed and designed after Mercedes decided to end its intended collaboration with Mitsubishi in 1991. The initial model wasn’t very impressive with its lack of quality and poor refinement. The M-Class rebranded and improved upon these points in 2005 with the Mk2 ML. Despite the long period before the major improvements, Mercedes was able to establish success with its latest model. Today the manufacturing factory is producing more than 100,000 cars annually and is selling these models to the relevant car markets. The latest luxury 4x4 M-Class Luxury is currently going into its third model phase.

Pros

The newest ML has taken a completely new turn from the unimpressive original. The quality is at the forefront of the market, offering a four-cylinder diesel engine that’s targeted to reach a larger ownership of the luxury SUV.

The Mercedes ML250 Bluetec introduces itself with a maturity only expected after vast improvements. Being among the vehicle’s higher range in the M-Class, this model can be purchased to include a top-notch chassis technology that will improve both off-road and on the road performance. Other impressive features are expected of a luxury SUV, such as the lockable inter-axle differentials, height adjustable air suspension. But the M-Class keeps a step ahead with its active anti-roll bars, adaptive damping, spacious interior, and refined, classy family car look.

What stands out among the Mercedes M-Class features is the ML’s latest grille treatment. The chrome strip runs through the front bumper’s bottom is able to enhance the car’s premium look. Large wheels are definitely part of the SU deal, with all the models’ sporting ones that are no less than 19 inches in width. There are even rims that go up to 21 inches for those that need the wheels bigger. The reversed C-Pillar is still included as a staple of the M-Class design, while the D-Pillar is placed behind the glass to reduce the vehicle’s visible bulk at the back. Form is completed by function as the SUV’s standard three-piece spoiler is there to reduce drag and smoothen airflow.

Cons

Being an SUV built to carry middle class passengers to and from their daily errands and functions, it’s only natural that the interior design suits such a lifestyle. And although the design can appeal to the entry-level target market, it still lacks that extra flair seen in competitors like the Cayenne or the Range Rover. Nonetheless families after no particular design will appreciate the M-Class’ colour schemes and architecture.

The 2.1-litre four-cylinder engine may be new for the car itself, but the 93bhp a litre power is seen in other diesel engines. If you’re used to stronger power, then you’ll have to get used to how this engine performs on the road. And although the 369lbft is exceptional in term of torque and delivers well through its seven-speed auto gearbox, the ML250 is still out performed from bigger and better engines of competitors. Its 60mph from standstill dash at 8.8 seconds seems slow against the faster cars.  

        If you like sports utility vehicles (just SUVs for short), then you would love the Mercedes-Benz M-Class. This automobile is classified as mid-size, luxury SUV, and one of the first the German car manufacturing brand Mercedes-Benz ever developed and produced. The Mercedes M-Class was first debuted by Mercedes-Benz back at 1997. It has sported three different generations in its almost 16 years in the market. This car, initially for the European market, became a huge success in terms of sales in Mexico and The United States. It is a powerful piece of hardware, since its engines and overall performance levels are commended by many car experts around the world.

        The background of the Mercedes M-Class is an interesting one, since it was what initially resulted from the plans Mercedes had of changing its own G-Class models of cars. These talks and plans have even had Mercedes-Benz team up with another car manufacturing giant, Mitsubishi Motors. After an estimate of 7 years, the first generation of the M-Class was finally released and it did Mercedes proud.

        Both the 2^nd and 3^rd generation of the M-Class found themselves in similar boats during their development stages, with Mercedes meticulously and ornately planning how they could possibly improve the SUV. They always did; and now, the M-Class is one of the best SUVs you could ever find out on the market.