2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class: Road Test
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2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class ▼
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- MSRP: $36,300 -$65,900
- Invoice: $33,759 -$61,287
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Our road test for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class help you decide if a 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-Class is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| ML320 | ML500 w/Sport Pkg. | ML55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 7 | 5.1 |
ML320 feels sleepy in the midrange, but does 0-60 mph in a decent 9.1 sec. V8 models are fast by any measure. An ML500 took just 6.6 sec in our 0-60 runs, an ML55 only 6.4.
FUEL ECONOMY
| ML320 | ML500 w/Sport Pkg. | ML55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 2 | 3.3 |
Test ML320s averaged 13.9-15 mpg, typical of 6-cyl midsize SUVs. ML500 averaged 14.6 mpg, including gas-eating performance tests. Test ML55 averaged just 12.9 mpg. All engines require premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| ML320 | ML500 w/Sport Pkg. | ML55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 2 | 4.3 |
Comfortable enough with standard suspension, but feels trucky, not carlike. Optional Sport Package makes ride jiggly, thumpy over bumps and broken pavement, thanks to firmer damping and lower-profile tires.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| ML320 | ML500 w/Sport Pkg. | ML55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5 | 4.2 |
Confident for tall SUVs, with less cornering lean than some. Handling best on ML 55 or with Sport Package, but steering always has weak self-centering. AWD with traction control brakes any or all wheels to maintain grip, but doesn't match traditional 4WD for heavy snow and off-road trails. Braking swift and sure from most any speed, though.
QUIETNESS
| ML320 | ML500 w/Sport Pkg. | ML55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3 | 4.5 |
Generally refined for SUVs, but wind noise rises sharply above 60 mph, and there's more tire drone and slap than in most cars. All engines emit marked full-throttle fan roar, but are unobtrusive at moderate cruising speeds.
CONTROLS
| ML320 | ML500 w/Sport Pkg. | ML55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.7 |
Some controls won't be obvious to first-time Mercedes owners, especially the complex navigation option. Cabin materials and finish generally in line with prices, but leather still costs extra on ML320. Extended-use-test 1999 ML430 required no unscheduled maintenance during its 12-month, 15,500-mile test period, but suffered poor AM radio reception in urban areas.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| ML320 | ML500 w/Sport Pkg. | ML55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.3 |
Comfortable and spacious. Commanding driver positioning, good visibility save headrest obstruction astern. Large doors and reasonably low SUV step-in ease entry/exit.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| ML320 | ML500 w/Sport Pkg. | ML55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.2 |
Easy access to 2nd row, thanks to low sills and decently wide doors. Three adults will fit, but leg room tight with the front seats fully aft. Third row great for transporting tikes, who are small enough to easily climb into it and young enough to enjoy the experience.
CARGO ROOM
| ML320 | ML500 w/Sport Pkg. | ML55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
Ample maximum volume, but folding the rear seat takes practice and patience. Low deck is appreciated with heavy cargo.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| ML320 | ML500 w/Sport Pkg. | ML55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 3 | 2 | 4.5 |
Though one of the most-competent and pleasant truck-type SUVs, the M-Class is pricey against the car-based Acura MDX and Lexus RX 300, which offer better ride comfort, driving ease, and quietness. Mercedes' typical high resale values compensate some, however.
Total Score
| ML320 | ML500 w/Sport Pkg. | ML55 AMG | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 54 | 51 | 48 | 51.5 |
Total Score: 51
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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