Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize SUVs are similar in size and construction to Midsize SUVs. Most, in fact, are gilded versions of Midsize SUVs; though a few are exclusive upscale designs.

Our Best Buys include the Acura MDX, Cadillac SRX, and Lexus RX. Our Recommended pick is the Volvo XC90.

The redesigned 2006 M-Class starts sale this spring in V6 ML350 and V8 ML500 models. Both come with Mercedes' 7-speed automatic transmission and a revised AWD system adding hill-descent and hill-ascent controls. A new version of the high-performance ML55 AMG is expected sometime later. Mercedes will also sell a diesel M-Class for the first time in the U.S. Expected by early 2006, it uses a new 3.0-liter V6 engine, but will be barred by emissions regulations from California and four Northeastern states.

The '06 models wear a more aggressive version of the familiar M-Class look on a new unibody platform, replacing body-on-frame construction. Mercedes says the redesign adds 5.9 inches to overall length and 2.8 inches to width on a 3.7-inch longer wheelbase. Height comes down a nominal 0.4-inch. Seating for five remains despite the added length, though Mercedes says leg room improves by 2 inches in front and 1.3 inches in the rear. But some cargo space has apparently been sacrificed, as Mercedes claims maximum volume of 72.4 cu ft, down from 81.2. However, extended-length models with 3-row seating for seven are expected at some point.

Options will include a power liftgate and height-adjustable air suspension. Curtain side airbags for both seating rows remain standard, but add rollover sensors that trigger the curtains if an imminent tip is detected.

Like the old M-Class, the new models are built at Mercedes' Vance, Alabama plant, which is adding the new R-Class crossover wagon and redesigned G-Class SUV that share the new M platform. We should have full details on all three very soon, so keep checking back with us.