1998-2005 Mercedes-Benz M-Class: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The new Mercedes-Benz M-Class (ML320) was actually the German luxury automaker's first sport-utility vehicle. It was also the first Mercedes model built in America. Designed from scratch, the four-wheel-drive midsize SUV used body-on-frame construction, but stood apart from the pack of truck-based models due to its fully independent suspension. Mercedes-Benz's first V6 engine went under the hood: a 3.2-liter, making 215 horsepower and coupled to a 5-speed automatic transmission. The V6 drove all wheels via front, center, and rear differentials. Unlike couplings on locking differentials on most SUVs, Mercedes' "4ETS" system used antilock braking and traction-control sensors to direct power to the wheels with the greatest amount of grip. Power normally divided 50/50 front/rear, but could be automatically directed to any combination of wheels--or just one wheel if need be--to maintain traction. Separate low-range gearing could be engaged using a dashboard button. Offered in just one well-equipped model, the ML320 had seating for five and door-mounted front side airbags. Options included a power moonroof, Class III 5000-pound trailer hitch, and an "M1" package with leather and wood interior trim.