Mercedes ML
Mercedes ML technical data
Select Mercedes ML generation for full details - reviews, specifications, fuel consumption, pricing, quality and safety features, options, photos and more
Mercedes-Benz ML, officially the M-Class, is a midsize luxury SUV produced from 1997 until the ML name was replaced by GLE in 2015. It was one of the first premium SUVs aimed at everyday road use as well as light off-road driving. By the model’s tenth anniversary, total M-Class production since launch had reached almost 648,000 units.
The post-2000 W163 update improved the early model’s quality, styling and equipment. Engines included V6 and V8 petrol units, CDI diesels and the ML 55 AMG with a 5.4-liter V8. It used a body-on-frame construction and four-wheel drive, giving it stronger off-road credentials than many later crossovers.
The second generation W164, launched in 2005, moved to a more refined unibody structure. It offered 3.0- and 3.5-liter V6 engines, V8 petrol versions, CDI diesels and the ML 63 AMG with a 6.2-liter V8 producing over 500 horsepower. A 7-speed automatic gearbox, improved 4Matic all-wheel drive, air suspension options and better safety systems made it more comfortable and road-focused.
The third generation W166 arrived in 2011 with cleaner engines, lower weight and more driver assistance technology. Versions included ML 250 BlueTEC, ML 350, ML 350 BlueTEC, ML 500 and ML 63 AMG. In 2015, the model was facelifted and renamed GLE.
In user reviews, the Mercedes-Benz ML is often remembered as a big SUV that feels best when used for long trips, towing or winter driving. Owners like the strong diesels, comfortable seats, solid road presence and secure all-wheel drive. Complaints usually gather around expensive suspension repairs, electronic faults, fuel consumption in petrol models and the heavy, less agile feel in city traffic.
Is Mercedes ML a reliable car?
In general, the Mercedes ML reliability is slightly below average. The number of defects found on the Mercedes ML during the annual technical inspections is just above average for cars of a similar age.
According to these reviews, the highest reliability scores achieved Mercedes ML generation from 2011 to 2015, while the models produced from 2001 to 2005 had the lowest reliability ratings, reliability scores vary quite significantly between generations of Mercedes ML. For more information, check the respective generation information.
Most Mercedes ML engines utilize a timing chain drive, which is widely regarded as more dependable compared to engines with a timing belt drive.
Mercedes ML reviews
Total 18 Mercedes ML owner reviews
Pros: Comfort, safety, perfect visibility - very important at my age. Easy to get in and out of, very good relaxed driving feel, few electronics, generally quite a simple car
Cons: To get your car in order you should invest like a Mercedes, premium spare parts cost money. It's hard to find a good technician who knows the model, there are specifics.
| Purchase year: | 2020 age of car 17 years) | Owned for | 9`000 kilometers (2 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 11.1 litres per 100km (80% urban driving) | ||
| Total cost of repairs: | 1028 € (~ 514 € per year) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
Pros: Car is cosy and it is a pleasure to drive it! Very high-end materials, even after nine years of use interior looks good and no signs of fatigue.
Cons: I'd suggest to choose a "facelift" models starting from 2009 and later
| Purchase year: | 2018 age of car 9 years) | Owned for | 10`000 kilometers (0 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 12.0 litres per 100km (50% urban driving) | ||
| Total cost of repairs: | 600 € | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
Pros: If you don't try to finish the car yourself, then everything is much less serviceable, roomy and compact
Cons: Poor sound insulation, below average interior quality, some ergonomic issues, rear suspension stiffness
| Purchase year: | 2018 age of car 19 years) | Owned for | 60`000 kilometers (4 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 14.0 litres per 100km (60% urban driving) | ||
| Total cost of repairs: | 500 € (~ 125 € per year) | ||
Would NOT recomend this car to the friend
Pros: Very good for special snow and mud mount. Very comfortable
Cons: The consumption I hope to pass it to gas
| Purchase year: | 2019 age of car 20 years) | Owned for | 20`000 kilometers (0 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 18.0 litres per 100km (60% urban driving) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
Pros: In general is not a bad car, like fact that it has lowered gears
Cons: Power could be better
| Purchase year: | 2016 age of car 14 years) | Owned for | 15`000 kilometers (1 year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 11.0 litres per 100km (50% urban driving) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
| Purchase year: | 2015 age of car 11 years) | Owned for | 50`000 kilometers (4 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 10.0 litres per 100km (40% urban driving) | ||
| Total cost of repairs: | 330 € (~ 82 € per year) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
Pros: This is a Mercedes. That's it.
Cons: Maybe a little too big
| Purchase year: | 2022 age of car 14 years) | Owned for | 15`000 kilometers (2 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average fuel consumption: | 12.0 litres per 100km (60% urban driving) | ||
| Total cost of repairs: | 790 € (~ 395 € per year) | ||
Would recomend this car to the friend
Pros: A very dynamic and comfortable car.
Cons: Poor low-beams.