Pros: Good range of engine choices, including a diesel; classy, well-finished cabin; quietness; blistering acceleration in high-performance ML63 model
Cons: Non-diesel models are thirsty for premium gasoline, especially ML63; high prices on upper trim levels; some complicated controls
CG Says: For 2015, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class lineup gets two new models with new engines: The ML250 Bluetec has a 200-horsepower diesel 4-cylinder that replaces the diesel-V6 ML350 Bluetec, and the ML400 has a 329-hp twin-turbocharged V6 that replaces the turbo-V8 ML550 4MATIC model. M-Class is very refined, solidly built, and pleasant to drive. High points include the comfortable, well-finished interior and excellent powertrains. Think of the high-performance ML63 AMG (which boasts a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 with 518 or 550 horsepower) as a suede- and leather-lined cruise missile. It commands a significant price premium, but it is arguably the most well rounded high-power luxury SUV on the market with its admirable blend of performance, comfort, and refinement. The long list of available options can quickly raise the sticker’s bottom line, but M-Class is a fine premium midsize SUV that deserves serious consideration.
| Class | Premium Midsize SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Mercedes-Benz |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | ML350: $48,300 ML250 Bluetec 4Matic: $49,800 ML350 4Matic: $50,800 ML400 4Matic: $62,900 ML63 4Matic: $98,400 |
| Base Engine 3.5-liter V6 |
| Horsepower 302 |
| Std. Transmission 7-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 17-18 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 22-24 |
| Optional Engine diesel 2.1-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 200 |
| Std. Transmission 7-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 22 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 29 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 |
| Horsepower 329 |
| Std. Transmission 7-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 18 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 22 |
