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2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Full Review
Date Published: 9/03/08
Also in the 2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mercedes-Benz M-Class Full Review
7.
8.
2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Review
This American-built SUV loses its high-performance model for 2004. The M-Class continues with the ML350, which has a 232-hp V6, and the ML500, which has a 288-hp V8. Gone is the 342-hp V8 ML55 AMG. Both M-Class models come with all-wheel drive with low-range gearing and a 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid/traction control, and 17-inch alloy wheels also are standard. So are front and rear torso side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags. Mercedes' TeleAid assistance system and dashboard screen for controlling audio and navigation systems are also included. Navigation system and leather upholstery are standard on the ML500, optional on the ML350. A 2-person 3rd-row seat is available for both. All models are now factory prewired to accept a newly optional dealer-installed satellite radio. Also dropped for '04 is the optional Sport Package with its wider, lower-profile tires.
News
A redesigned 2006 M-Class is set to bow in Detroit at the January 2005 North American International Auto Show. No word on when sales begin, but industry moles have confirmed the new design's broad outlines. For starters, construction goes from body-on-frame to unibody, and the familiar 5-passenger wagon gets a 7-seat companion measuring some 204 inches long overall. The 7-seaters may be badged MLV. Regular or super-size, the new Ms reportedly boast standard air suspension for a smoother on-road ride, and should offer Mercedes' latest techno-gadgets such as "smart" cruise control, steering-linked headlamps, and perhaps Active Body Control anti-lean suspension. Both versions should offer a 5.0-liter V8 making around 306 hp. A 3.5-liter V6 likely remains standard for the 5-seater and may power an "MLV350". Mercedes' new 7-speed automatic should be the only transmission. High-performance AMG editions are a sure bet down the road. Parts of the new M-Class design also serve a totally reworked G-Class SUV and a new, more car-like crossover wagon called R-Class. All will be built at Mercedes' Alabama plant. Keep checking back with us for late-breaking news.
Meantime, a baby M called X-Class reportedly bows in 2005 with many underskin components borrowed from Mercedes' C-Class compact cars. UK reports indicate scaled-down M-Class styling, an overall length of around 177 inches, and standard 4-Matic all-wheel drive. A 3.5-liter V6 is likely to be U.S.-standard, though it could be optional to a smaller base V6. A hot V8 version should appear sometime later, as Mercedes has allegedly registered the names X55 and X63. Again, keep checking back with us for all the latest.
Meantime, a baby M called X-Class reportedly bows in 2005 with many underskin components borrowed from Mercedes' C-Class compact cars. UK reports indicate scaled-down M-Class styling, an overall length of around 177 inches, and standard 4-Matic all-wheel drive. A 3.5-liter V6 is likely to be U.S.-standard, though it could be optional to a smaller base V6. A hot V8 version should appear sometime later, as Mercedes has allegedly registered the names X55 and X63. Again, keep checking back with us for all the latest.
2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration (ML500) | Fuel economy |
| Build quality | |
| Passenger and cargo room | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
ML350 has enough power for most needs, though some test drivers complained of nonlinear throttle action. Figure just under 9 sec 0-60 mph. ML500 fast by any measure, at just 6.6 sec 0-60 in our tests.
| ML350 | ML500 | Class Average |
| 5 | 7 | 5.8 |
ML350 has enough power for most needs, though some test drivers complained of nonlinear throttle action. Figure just under 9 sec 0-60 mph. ML500 fast by any measure, at just 6.6 sec 0-60 in our tests.
Fuel Economy
Test ML350 averaged 14.0 mpg in a mix of city/highway driving. Test ML500s averaged 14.6-15.1 mpg. Both engines require premium fuel.
| ML350 | ML500 | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
Test ML350 averaged 14.0 mpg in a mix of city/highway driving. Test ML500s averaged 14.6-15.1 mpg. Both engines require premium fuel.
Ride Quality
Feels trucky, not carlike, with lots of bounding over bumps.
| ML350 | ML500 | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4.9 |
Feels trucky, not carlike, with lots of bounding over bumps.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Confident for tall SUVs, with less cornering lean than some, but steering has weak self-centering. Standard antiskid/traction control offers added security under slippery conditions. Powerful brakes provide swift, sure stops.
| ML350 | ML500 | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 5.2 |
Confident for tall SUVs, with less cornering lean than some, but steering has weak self-centering. Standard antiskid/traction control offers added security under slippery conditions. Powerful brakes provide swift, sure stops.
Quietness
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 pace.
| ML350 | ML500 | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 6 |
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 pace.
Controls
Some controls won't be obvious to first-time Mercedes owners. Navigation system confusing to use and complicates audio adjustments. Cabin materials and finish generally in line with prices, but leather still costs extra on ML350.
| ML350 | ML500 | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 6 |
Some controls won't be obvious to first-time Mercedes owners. Navigation system confusing to use and complicates audio adjustments. Cabin materials and finish generally in line with prices, but leather still costs extra on ML350.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Comfortable and spacious. Commanding driver positioning, good visibility save headrest obstruction astern. Large doors and reasonably low SUV step-in ease entry/exit.
| ML350 | ML500 | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
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)
Tall, supportive cushion. Leg and foot room goes from good to tight as front seats slide rearward. OK access via low sills and adequately wide doors. Available 3rd-row seat is strictly for tykes, and even they might feel squeezed getting into or out of its tight confines.
| ML350 | ML500 | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 6.2 |
Tall, supportive cushion. Leg and foot room goes from good to tight as front seats slide rearward. OK access via low sills and adequately wide doors. Available 3rd-row seat is strictly for tykes, and even they might feel squeezed getting into or out of its tight confines.
Cargo Room
Adequate volume. Low deck is appreciated with heavy cargo.
| ML350 | ML500 | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
Adequate volume. Low deck is appreciated with heavy cargo.
Value within Class
Though our Also Consider picks hold an edge in carlike driving feel, the M-Class is one of the most competent and pleasant truck-type SUVs. Prices are in line with Mercedes' lofty image, but typically high resale values compensate some.
| ML350 | ML500 | Class Average |
| 6 | 5 | 5.6 |
Though our Also Consider picks hold an edge in carlike driving feel, the M-Class is one of the most competent and pleasant truck-type SUVs. Prices are in line with Mercedes' lofty image, but typically high resale values compensate some.
Total Score
| ML350 | ML500 | Class Average |
| 56 | 57 | 57.8 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 36 | |
| Average Score | 57 | |
| High Score | 70 |
2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 02/16/2004
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| ML350 4-door wagon | $37,950 | $35,294 | $720 |
|
|
|||
| ML500 4-door wagon | $46,400 | $43,152 | $720 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
ML350
Powertrain
3.7-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, all-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags w/automatic child-seat recognition system, front and rear side airbags, curtain side airbags, antiskid system, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate control and rear controls, interior air filter, TeleAid telematics system, power steering, tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors, power front windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/weatherband/cassette, digital clock, tachometer, outside-temperature indicator, universal garage-door opener, intermittent wipers, map lights, illuminated visor mirrors, cargo cover, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, roof rails, front and rear fog lights.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Front and rear tow hooks, 255/60R17 tires, alloy wheels.
ML500 adds to ML350:
Powertrain
5.0-liter V8 engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, heated 8-way power front seats, automatic day/night driver-side and rearview mirrors, navigation system, trip computer, compass.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear privacy glass.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
275/55VR17 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Trim Pkg.
|
||
|
ML350
|
$1,700
|
$1,581
|
|
Leather upholstery, 8-way power front seats, wood interior trim, rear privacy glass. Requires power sunroof
|
||
|
Comfort Pkg.
|
||
|
ML500
|
$800
|
$744
|
|
Memory system (driver seat, mirrors), tilt-down back-up aid, rain-sensing wipers, under-passenger-seat storage box. Requires power sunroof.
|
||
|
Rear Seat Pkg.
|
||
|
ML350 w/Trim Pkg., ML500
|
$1,200
|
$1,116
|
|
ML350
|
$975
|
$907
|
|
3rd-row split folding seat. Deletes cargo cover. Requires power sunroof.
|
||
|
Inspiration Edition Pkg. P37
|
||
|
ML350
|
$2,540
|
$2,362
|
|
Sport seats, special wood interior trim, metallic paint, unique grill and wheels. Requires power sunroof.
|
||
|
Inspiration Edition P38
|
||
|
ML350
|
$3,815
|
$3,548
|
|
ML500
|
$1,200
|
$1,116
|
|
Inspiration Edition Pkg. P37. plus Comfort Pkg. (ML350). Requires power sunroof.
|
||
|
Appearance Pkg.
|
||
|
ML350, ML500
|
$3,350
|
$3,116
|
|
Bodyside cladding, color-keyed bumpers, 275/55VR17 tires, unique alloy wheels. Requires power sunroof.
|
||
|
designo Java/Charcoal/Ash Edition
|
||
|
ML350, ML500
|
$3,500
|
$
|
|
Special exterior color, specific interior color, special wood interior trim and floormats. ML350 requires heated front seats.
|
||
|
|
||
Safety |
||
|
Rear-obstacle-detection system
|
||
|
ML350, ML500
|
$1,015
|
$944
|
|
|
||
Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Power sunroof
|
||
|
ML350, ML500
|
$1,350
|
$1,256
|
|
Includes power rear quarter windows.
|
||
|
Navigation system
|
||
|
ML350
|
$995
|
$925
|
|
Bose sound system
|
||
|
ML350, ML500
|
$1,250
|
$1,163
|
|
Includes 6-disc CD changer.
|
||
|
Heated front seats
|
||
|
ML350
|
$650
|
$605
|
|
Requires Trim Pkg.
|
||
|
Xenon headlights
|
||
|
ML350, ML500
|
$875
|
$814
|
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Special paint
|
||
|
ML350, ML500
|
$500
|
$470
|
|
|
||
2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Mercedes-Benz M-Class 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 111.0 |
| Overall Length, in. | 182.6 |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.4 |
| Overall Height, in. | 71.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4819 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 81.2 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 22.6 |
| Seating Capacity | 7 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.8 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 40.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.7 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 38.0 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| sohc V6 | sohc V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.7 /227 | 5.0 /303 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 232 @ 5750 | 288 @ 5600 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 254 @ 3000 | 325 @ 2700 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
||
| 5-speed automatic | 15/18 | 14/17 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Mercedes-Benz M-Class 4-door wagon |
| Rollover Resistance | 3 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | --/-- | Unlimited |
| Free scheduled maintenance | 4/50,000 | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
USA
Drivewheels:
all-wheel drive
Also in the 2004 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Mercedes-Benz M-Class Full Review
7.
8.
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