Used Mercedes-Benz M-Class for Sale nearSan Luis Obispo, CA
Shop with transparent pricing.
Only show listings that include dealer fees- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 302 hp 3.5L V6
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 58,089
- Stock #:
- 608706
- VIN:
- 4JGDA5HBXFA608706
2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350 4MATIC
58,089 mi
$16,230
- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 302 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Silver
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 51,494
- Stock #:
- K615697
- VIN:
- 4JGDA5HB4FA615697
2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350 4MATIC
51,494 mi
$18,139
- Year:
- 2013
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 518 hp 5.5L V8
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 15 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 92,841
- Stock #:
- 227502
- VIN:
- 4JGDA7EB2DA172950
2013 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 63 AMG 4MATIC
92,841 mi
$17,628
- Year:
- 2007
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 268 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 17 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 85,424
- Stock #:
- 288827
- VIN:
- 4JGBB86E37A288827
2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350 4MATIC
85,424 mi
$10,380
- Year:
- 2010
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 268 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Blue
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown (Tan)
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic Overdrive
- Mileage:
- 141,283
- Stock #:
- RS611916
- VIN:
- 4JGBB8GB3AA611916
2010 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350 4MATIC
141,283 mi
$7,239
- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 518 hp 5.5L V8
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 15 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Mileage:
- 68,159
- Stock #:
- 483420
- VIN:
- 4JGDA7EB1FA483420
2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 63 AMG 4MATIC
68,159 mi
$27,216
- Year:
- 2011
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 268 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Brown
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown (Tan)
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic Overdrive
- Mileage:
- 123,335
- Stock #:
- 1598
- VIN:
- 4JGBB5GB4BA671722
-$589
2011 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350
123,335 mi
$7,120
$6,531
- Year:
- 2012
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 302 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown (Tan)
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 160,280
- Stock #:
- RS002282
- VIN:
- 4JGDA5HB6CA002282
2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350 4MATIC
160,280 mi
$8,739
- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 302 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 21 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 103,677
- Stock #:
- 23476
- VIN:
- 4JGDA5JB1FA560636
2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350
103,677 mi
$12,084
- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 302 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 81,935
- Stock #:
- P582086
- VIN:
- 4JGDA5HB6FA582086
2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350 4MATIC
81,935 mi
$13,933
- Year:
- 2013
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 240 hp 3L V6 Diesel
- Combined gas mileage:
- 24 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Diesel
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 137,407
- Stock #:
- 3380
- VIN:
- 4JGDA2EBXDA211254
2013 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
137,407 mi
$10,452
- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 302 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 21 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 114,856
- Stock #:
- 870
- VIN:
- 4JGDA5JB5FA443870
2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350
114,856 mi
$10,160
- Year:
- 2014
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 302 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 21 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 87,805
- Stock #:
- 393035
- VIN:
- 4JGDA5JB7EA393035
2014 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350
87,805 mi
$11,645
Customer summary
The Mercedes-Benz M-Class has consistently received high praise from owners for its luxurious feel, strong performance, and safety features across all model years. Drivers frequently appreciate the comfort and interior quality, making it a popular choice for families and long-distance travel. However, common concerns include high maintenance costs and subpar fuel economy, particularly in gas models. Despite these drawbacks, many believe that the quality and reliability of the M-Class justify its higher price point.
- Year:
- 2013
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 302 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 20 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown (Beige)
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 118,530
- Stock #:
- 256367
- VIN:
- 4JGDA5HBXDA256367
2013 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350 4MATIC
118,530 mi
$9,555
- Year:
- 2010
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 268 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 17 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 165,001
- Stock #:
- 89947N
- VIN:
- 4JGBB8GB9AA577576
2010 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350 4MATIC
165,001 mi
$5,992
- Year:
- 2013
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 302 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Lunar Blue Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 20 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Porcelain
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 90,823
- Stock #:
- 199197
- VIN:
- 4JGDA5JB7DA199197
2013 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350
90,823 mi
$11,780
- Year:
- 2011
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 503 hp 6.3L V8
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 13 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black AMG Premium Leather
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 67,510
- Stock #:
- 667408
- VIN:
- 4JGBB7HB8BA667408
2011 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 63 AMG 4MATIC
67,510 mi
$23,247
- Year:
- 2014
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Rear-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 302 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Diamond White Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 21 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Auburn Brown
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 104,440
- Stock #:
- 17125
- VIN:
- 4JGDA5JB5EA363810
2014 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350
104,440 mi
$10,925
- Year:
- 2012
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 302 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 140,929
- Stock #:
- 08037700
- VIN:
- 4JGDA5HB0CA080377
2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350 4MATIC
140,929 mi
$8,117
- Year:
- 2012
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 302 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 91,366
- Stock #:
- 1005
- VIN:
- 4JGDA5HB4CA038665
2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350 4MATIC
91,366 mi
$12,080
- Year:
- 2012
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 302 hp 3.5L V6
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 59,851
- Stock #:
- P050642
- VIN:
- 4JGDA5HB8CA050642
2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350 4MATIC
59,851 mi
$15,938
- Year:
- 2014
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 302 hp 3.5L V6
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown (BEIGE)
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 135,102
- Stock #:
- 17439
- VIN:
- 4JGDA5HB3EA282519
2014 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350 4MATIC
135,102 mi
$10,671
- Year:
- 2012
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- M-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 240 hp 3L V6 Diesel
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 23 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Diesel
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 100,793
- Stock #:
- 260431
- VIN:
- 4JGDA2EB5CA056451
2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
100,793 mi
$10,674
How much does the Mercedes-Benz M-Class cost in today's market?
Used Mercedes-Benz M-Class prices span a wide range depending on model year. Here's what the market looks like right now:
| Model Year | Current Avg. Price | Year-Round Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $12,173 | $12,173 – $13,535 |
| 2014 | $11,276 | $11,272 – $12,417 |
The Mercedes-Benz M-Class's current nationwide average price is $10,354, and its lowest point over the past year was $10,354. Recently, prices have come down for the 2014 and 2015 models, making now a good time to shop recent model years.
Is the Mercedes-Benz M-Class a good car?
Yes — the Mercedes-Benz M-Class is a well-regarded choice for used-car shoppers. The all-generations owner rating is 4.52/5 across every model year in the data.
Owners consistently praise its luxurious feel, strong performance, and safety features. Comfort and interior quality also come up often, and many shoppers value it as a capable option for family use and long-distance travel.
31.9% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
Are Mercedes-Benz M-Class models reliable?
Owners consistently praise the Mercedes-Benz M-Class for its solid build, comfort, and strong performance. The available owner feedback also points to a premium driving experience that many shoppers find appealing over the long term.
- Owners rate the Mercedes-Benz M-Class between 4.83 and 5.0 out of 5 stars across all model years in the data.
For used buyers, long-term ownership risk is best managed by checking service history carefully and budgeting for premium-brand upkeep.
What should I look for when buying a used Mercedes-Benz M-Class?
Across all model years, at 63.1% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
| Model Year | Accident-Free % |
|---|---|
| 2016 | 61.5% |
| 2015 | 61.3% |
| 2014 | 61.4% |
What Mercedes-Benz M-Class do most buyers choose?
The Mercedes-Benz M-Class years with the most listings are 2014, 2015, and 2016.
| Model Year | Total Listings | Good + Great Deals % |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 721 | 33.7% |
| 2015 | 537 | 33.9% |
| 2016 | 314 | 34.1% |
Higher-volume years tend to draw more shoppers because you usually get more inventory to compare, which can make it easier to find the right trim, mileage, and price combination. They also often become the most practical starting point when you want a broad selection of used options.
What is the Mercedes-Benz M-Class's resale value?
| Model Year | Current Avg. Price | Year-Over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | $11,276 | −9.25% |
| 2015 | $12,173 | −9.19% |
Prices are moving lower across the years shown, which can create better opportunities for used buyers. The changes are very similar from one year to the next, so neither model year stands out as holding value much better than the other. That makes the current market especially useful if you're focused on getting more vehicle for your money.
The 2015 and 2014 model years have held their value best, with the smallest year-over-year price changes.
Should I buy a used Mercedes-Benz M-Class now?
Buy now if:
- Price trend: The 2015 model is at −9.19% versus a year ago, and the 2014 model is at −9.25%.
- Deal availability: The 2015 model has 33.9% good and great deals, and the 2014 model has 33.7%.
- Sweet-spot year: The 2014 model has the most listings at a current average price of $11,276.
If you're buying used today, the 2014 model year offers the best mix of value and availability.
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from October 20, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
4.6 Overall rating
Customers say
The Mercedes-Benz M-Class has consistently received high praise from owners for its luxurious feel, strong performance, and safety features across all model years. Drivers frequently appreciate the comfort and interior quality, making it a popular choice for families and long-distance travel. However, common concerns include high maintenance costs and subpar fuel economy, particularly in gas models. Despite these drawbacks, many believe that the quality and reliability of the M-Class justify its higher price point.
AI generated from the text of customer reviews.
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What people say
woldy J
Reviewed a 2014 Mercedes-Benz M-Class on Jul 14, 2026
You already have everything you need in this vehicle. The car has held its value very well. Honestly, the biggest difference between this and the GLE is the larger infotainment screen. Other than that, the ML still offers excellent comfort, luxury, performance, and features. It’s a great SUV and definitely worth considering.
Hanson K
Reviewed a 2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class on Feb 8, 2025
Very satisfied with the car itself and the 3 year warranty choice at reasonable cost.
Thomas E
Reviewed a 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 4MATIC on Jun 24, 2025
I love the car, rides great, and I can't complain about the price. I do feel the couple of little things could have been fixed( windshield wiper, tail light, and the oil change that was overdue could have been done.
Michael P
Reviewed a 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML 320 4MATIC on May 24, 2014
I have a 1999 ML 320, which was my moms car but was very recently passed down to me. This car is an amazing vehicle and currently has 198000 miles on it and is 15 years old. There has never been a issue regarding reliability. Living in New England with the awful winters, it handles exquisitely in the ice and snow (especially with the low range button for blizzards). I think it is very comfortable. The leather is very comfortable, high quality, and extremely durable. The dashboard is a soft-tex material too which is very nice. I think my parents bought it with the premium package and an upgrade to a BOSE stereo system which still sounds great today. Also, I have plenty of leg room and head space when sitting inside the car and I am 6'1''. For performance, it may have only 215HP but it uses all of them and accelerates pretty quickly for its age and weight. The engine creates a a lot of torque and we have successfully been able to tow a boat (towing rated for 5000lbs). If I need to merge onto the highway really quickly it will accelerate extremely quickly if you floor it. Handling is impeccable. I've recently taken it off-roading and it had no problem (which I would expect because this model was used by the german army for military stuff). Maintenance from what my parents have told me was somewhat annoying. Although there are things that just need to be replaced throughout the life of a car, the catalytic converters would break alot in both of my parents mercedes (my dad has the ML350) which sucks because they're made from platinum, therefore making them very expensive ($2000). However, it didn't have to go to the shop very often for repairs. Rusting isn't really a issue. The only place where there is rust is along the trunk handle (which is a small area) and a little along the handle to open the hood. Overall, this is an extremely well-built, well-engineered, high-quality SUV and I definitely intend on staying with Mercedes-Benz when I am older and mostly likely buy and ML for myself.
Mercedes-Benz M-Class Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| ML 550 4MATIC | -- |
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
Mercedes-Benz M-Class Price Trends
CarGurus tracks the prices of millions of used car listings every year. See how the average price of Mercedes-Benz M-Class prices has changed over time.
See more price trendsMercedes-Benz M-Class Pricing Analysis
Pricing Analysis by Model Year
Key Insights
- Depreciation Curve: The 2006 model year exhibits the steepest depreciation at -85.6%, indicating significant value loss over time.
- New-Car Premium: The average prices for all model years are substantially below their starting MSRPs, with the 2015 model priced at -73.7% below its MSRP.
- Years Priced Above Starting MSRP: No model years are priced above their starting MSRPs, reflecting a consistent trend of depreciation across the board.
Model Year Pricing
| Model Year | Starting MSRP | Avg Price | Avg Price vs Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $48,300 | $12,714 | -73.7% |
| 2014 | $47,790 | $12,134 | -74.6% |
| 2013 | $47,270 | $11,420 | -75.8% |
| 2012 | $48,990 | $10,038 | -79.5% |
| 2011 | $46,490 | $8,329 | -82.1% |
| 2010 | $45,700 | $8,069 | -82.3% |
| 2009 | $44,600 | $7,628 | -82.9% |
| 2008 | $44,000 | $7,240 | -83.5% |
| 2007 | $43,455 | $7,524 | -82.7% |
| 2006 | $40,525 | $5,821 | -85.6% |
| 2005 | $38,670 | $6,141 | -84.1% |
Pricing by Popular US Cities
Market Area: Nationwide
Key Insights
- Highest-Price Market: The Boston, MA market has the highest average price at $11,046, indicating a premium for the M-Class in this region.
- Best Value: The Washington, DC area offers the lowest average price at $9,308, presenting a more affordable option for buyers.
- Inventory Drives Stability: The New York, NY market leads with 195 total listings, suggesting a robust supply that may help stabilize prices.
City-Level Pricing
| City | Total Listings | Avg Price |
|---|---|---|
| New York, NY | 195 | $10,333 |
| Chicago, IL | 174 | $10,385 |
| Atlanta, GA | 165 | $9,771 |
| Washington, DC | 161 | $9,308 |
| Philadelphia, PA | 160 | $10,395 |
| Dallas, TX | 158 | $10,303 |
| Los Angeles, CA | 155 | $10,487 |
| Boston, MA | 150 | $11,046 |
| Houston, TX | 132 | $9,893 |
| Miami, FL | 116 | $9,822 |
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from October 14, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
Overview
The M-Class represented a number of firsts for Mercedes-Benz. It was Mercedes' first SUV, designed and built in the late 1990s in response to the growing popularity of SUVs in general. It was the first Mercedes built in an American plant (in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama). And it was the first vehicle of its type with a four-wheel double-wishbone suspension system, as well as stability control, which helped prevent loss of control of the vehicle by the driver.
M-Class vehicles also came equipped with a number of innovative safety features, including front- and side-impact airbags, a reinforced steel body, front and rear crumple zones, and anti-intrusion bars on all doors. For these reasons and others, the M-Class received Motor Trend's Truck of the Year award in 1998.
As that award indicates, the M-Class was built on a truck platform, and officially labeled a "light truck" upon its introduction. However, Mercedes attempted to give its new SUV an upscale feel and a more carlike ride, both of which have improved over the years.
Mercedes has also invested a lot of effort in improving the quality of the M-Class. Due to the fact that it was built in a new plant, the SUV had a number of quality issues in its early years and soon gained a reputation with some drivers that was not completely positive. Some complained about quality and reliability issues. Parts often failed quickly, and the fit and finish of the vehicle was not what drivers expected from a Mercedes.
Most of those issues were resolved with the second-generation M-Class, which debuted in 2006. The new M-Class was longer (by almost 6 inches) and wider (by almost 3 inches) than the first-generation version and featured a more fluid design, which brought it closer in line with drivers' expectations.
The second-generation M-Class vehicles also received a boost in power, with the ML350 (with a 3.5-liter V6 engine) replacing the original ML320 and the ML500 (with a 5.0-liter V8) taking over for the original ML430.
Today, the M-Class includes the ML350 and the ML550 (which replaced the ML500), as well as the diesel-powered ML320 CDI and the high-powered ML63 AMG, which features an impressive 503-horsepower V8 engine and body styling by AMG, the in-house tuner for Mercedes. In addition, the M-Class vehicles can be equipped with Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, which provides improved handling, stability, and traction in all types of driving conditions.
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