2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

New diesel and high-performance models highlight 2007 for the smaller of Mercedes' two midsize SUVs. The M-Class seats five and comes in four models. The ML350 has a 268-hp V6. The ML500 has a 302-hp V8. Added for '07 are the ML320 CDI with a 215-hp turbodiesel V6, and the high-performance ML63 with a 503-hp V8. A 7-speed automatic is the sole transmission. All MLs have all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. ABS and traction/antiskid control are standard. So are front and rear side airbags and curtain side airbags. All MLs have a 60/40 split folding rear seat, wood interior trim, and Mercedes' Tele Aid assistance system. Leather upholstery is standard on the ML63, optional on the other models. A navigation system and steering-linked xenon headlamps are available.

Competition

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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 picks are the Mercedes-Benz R-Class and Volvo XC90.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Acura MDX, BMW X5, Chrysler Aspen, and Lincoln MKX.

News

The ML63 replaces the former high-performance ML55 model. Look for the ML500 to adopt Mercedes' newer 5.4-liter V8 and ML550 badges for 2008. Otherwise, this basic design should continue with no major near-term change. The ML's next full redesign is 4-5 years away.

Locate a Dealer

Get a FREE Price Quote:

2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Road Test

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

ML350 w/P1 Prem. Pkg., Multicontour seats	ML500 w/P3 Prem. Pkg.	ML320 CDI w/P2 Prem. Pkg.	Class Average
6	7	6	6.2

No opportunity yet to test ML63. ML500's V8 delivers more thrust than ML350's V6 in all conditions, but both accelerate briskly. Transmission upshifts, downshifts more frequently in ML350 vs. ML500 in response to throttle inputs. Transmission in two test ML350s periodically suffered jerky gear changes at low speed. ML320 CDI suffers brief turbo lag, then accelerates briskly.

Fuel Economy

ML350 w/P1 Prem. Pkg., Multicontour seats	ML500 w/P3 Prem. Pkg.	ML320 CDI w/P2 Prem. Pkg.	Class Average
4	4	6	3.6

Test ML350s averaged 17.0-19.0 mpg. No opportunity yet to measure fuel economy with other models. All gas engines require premium-grade fuel.

ML320 CDI requires ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel. Note that CDI is unavailable in California and certain Northeastern states.

Ride Quality

ML350 w/P1 Prem. Pkg., Multicontour seats	ML500 w/P3 Prem. Pkg.	ML320 CDI w/P2 Prem. Pkg.	Class Average
6	6	6	5.7

Low-speed impact harshness over most bumps. Otherwise admirably comfortable, rewardingly composed. Available air suspension has Comfort, Sport, Automatic settings. Uncomfortably choppy in Sport setting; other modes have little evident effect on comfort, control.

Steering/Handling/Braking

ML350 w/P1 Prem. Pkg., Multicontour seats	ML500 w/P3 Prem. Pkg.	ML320 CDI w/P2 Prem. Pkg.	Class Average
6	6	6	5.6

Acts more like a tall station wagon than an SUV, but leans more in corners than sportier Acura MDX or Porsche Cayenne. Steering impressively linear, accurate, though some drivers may prefer lighter low-speed feel. Corners with impressive grip, balance. Strong stopping power, outstanding brake pedal modulation.

Quietness

ML350 w/P1 Prem. Pkg., Multicontour seats	ML500 w/P3 Prem. Pkg.	ML320 CDI w/P2 Prem. Pkg.	Class Average
7	7	6	6.5

Luxury car levels of road- and wind-noise suppression. V6 heard more than V8 by virtue of transmission's more frequent shifts, but otherwise no less refined in sound, feel than silken V8. ML320 CDI's turbodiesel makes slightly different noise than gas engines, but is little louder overall.

Controls

ML350 w/P1 Prem. Pkg., Multicontour seats	ML500 w/P3 Prem. Pkg.	ML320 CDI w/P2 Prem. Pkg.	Class Average
7	7	7	6.5

Upscale blend of businesslike gauges, sophisticated but easy-to-use dashboard controls. Gear shifting via short column lever takes acclimation: Lever returns to same position after each shift, requiring driver to monitor gear selection on instrument panel screen. Navigation system absorbs most audio functions, requires multiple steps for some basic tasks. Leather/wood cabin trim, high-quality materials create upscale ambience, though most interior panels firm, rather than soft to the touch.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

ML350 w/P1 Prem. Pkg., Multicontour seats	ML500 w/P3 Prem. Pkg.	ML320 CDI w/P2 Prem. Pkg.	Class Average
7	7	7	7.3

Roomy, supportive seats. Multicontour power seats have tacked-on control pod that looks incongruous and intrudes on some testers' leg space. Entry/exit easy via large doors, no-stress step-in height.

Room/Comfort (rear)

ML350 w/P1 Prem. Pkg., Multicontour seats	ML500 w/P3 Prem. Pkg.	ML320 CDI w/P2 Prem. Pkg.	Class Average
7	7	7	6.3

Good leg, foot, head room. Seat nicely contoured, fits three across with minor crowding. Narrow lower doorways slightly tax ingress/egress.

Cargo Room

ML350 w/P1 Prem. Pkg., Multicontour seats	ML500 w/P3 Prem. Pkg.	ML320 CDI w/P2 Prem. Pkg.	Class Average
7	7	7	7.8

Tall, broad cargo bay has plenty of space with rear seats in use. Rear seat cushions tip, seatbacks fold easily without removing headrests to create long, flat load floor. Good cabin storage via roomy door pockets, tiered console bin, wide space where floorshifter was previously located.

Value within Class

ML350 w/P1 Prem. Pkg., Multicontour seats	ML500 w/P3 Prem. Pkg.	ML320 CDI w/P2 Prem. Pkg.	Class Average
6	5	6	5.9

Base prices are competitive, but the sticker's bottom line grows daunting as options are added. And around-town ride comfort isn't always what it should be. Overall, however, the highly refined, rock solid, and engaging-to-drive M-Class is what a premium midsize five-passenger SUV ought to be.

Total Score

ML350 w/P1 Prem. Pkg., Multicontour seats	ML500 w/P3 Prem. Pkg.	ML320 CDI w/P2 Prem. Pkg.	Class Average
63	63	64	61.4

Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		54
Average Score		61
High Score		82

Locate a Dealer

Get a FREE Price Quote:

2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Prices & Equipment

Model Prices

Prices Updated: 12/06/2006

Trim Name	Retail Price	Dealer Invoice	Destination Charge

ML350 4-door wagon	$42,680	$39,692	$775

ML320 CDI 4-door wagon	$43,680	$40,622	$775

ML500 4-door wagon	$49,200	$45,756	$775

ML63 4-door wagon	$85,500	$79,515	$775

Price note: ML320 CDI not available in Calif., Mass., Maine, N.Y., Vt.

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/ML320

Powertrain

3.5-liter V6 engine (ML350) or 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 engine (ML320), 7-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, all-wheel drive, traction control.

Safety

Dual front airbags, front and rear side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, hill ascent and descent control, tire-pressure monitor, daytime running lights.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, power steering, tilt/telescope leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, Tele Aid assistance system, vinyl upholstery, 8-way power front bucket seats, driver-seat lumbar adjustment, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/turn signals, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/weatherband/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, trip computer, outside-temperature indicator, universal garage door opener, intermittent wipers, map lights, illuminated visor mirrors, cargo cover, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, automatic headlights, floormats.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Theft-deterrent system, rear privacy glass, front and rear fog lights.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

235/65R17 tires, alloy wheels.

ML500 adds to ML350/ML320:

Powertrain

5.0-liter V8 engine.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Heated front seats, automatic day/night rearview, rain-sensing wipers.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Roof rails.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

255/55R18 tires.

ML63 adds to ML500:

Powertrain

6.2-liter V8 engine.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Power tilt/telescope steering wheel, rear climate controls, leather upholstery, multicontour front seats, navigation system, rearview camera, power sunroof, harman/kardon sound system, glovebox-mounted 6-disc CD changer, satellite radio, wireless cell phone link, power liftgate.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Running boards.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

Load-leveling sport suspension w/active shock absorber control, 20-inch alloy wheels.

Optional Equipment

Major Packages	Retail Price	Invoice Price
P1 Premium Pkg.
ML350, ML320, ML500	$2,800	$2,604
Power sunroof, harman/kardon sound system, satellite radio, wireless cell phone link, power liftgate, rain-sensing wipers.

P2 Premium Pkg.
ML350, ML320, ML500	$5,800	$5,394
P1 Premium Pkg. plus navigation system, rearview camera, power tilt/telescope steering wheel, memory system (front seats, mirrors, steering wheel), automatic driver-side and rearview mirrors, power folding mirrors.

P3 Premium Pkg.
ML350, ML320, ML500	$8,600	$7,998
P2 Premium Pkg. plus rear climate controls, cargo organizer, load-leveling suspension w/active shock absorber control.

Leather Seating Pkg.
ML350, ML320, ML500	$1,540	$1,432
Leather upholstery, front console tray, unique wood interior trim, upgraded interior lighting.

AMG Sport Pkg.
ML350, ML320	$4,550	$4,232
ML500	$4,250	$3,952
Unique exterior trim, 255/50R19 tires. NA w/front- and rear-obstacle-detection system.

Appearance Pkg. 322
ML350, ML320	$1,450	$1,348
ML500	$950	$884
Unique interior and exterior trim, blue-glass windshield and front windows, 255/50R19 tires.

Heating Pkg.
ML350, ML320	$1,360	$1,265
ML500	$800	$744
Heated front seats (ML350, ML320), heated rear seats, heated steering wheel.

Safety
Front- and rear-obstacle-detection system
ML350, ML320, ML500	$760	$707


Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
ML350, ML320, ML500	$1,650	$1,534


DVD entertainment system
ML350/ML320, ML500, ML63	$2,800	$2,604


Glovebox-mounted 6-disc CD changer
ML350, ML320, ML500	$440	$409
Requires a Premium Pkg.

iPod connection
ML350/ML320, ML500, ML63	$365	$339


Alcantara seat inserts
ML350, ML320, ML500	$500	$465
Includes sport seats, aluminum interior trim.

Heated front seats
ML350, ML320	$700	$651


Multicontour front seats
ML350, ML320, ML500	$790	$735
NA w/Alcantara seat inserts.

Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel
ML350/ML320, ML500, ML63	$540	$502
ML350, ML320, ML500 require Leather Pkg. NA w/Heating Pkg.

Keyless access and starting
ML500, ML63	$1,100	$1,023


Voice recognition
ML350/ML320, ML500, ML63	$500	$465
Voice control of radio and wireless cell phone link. ML350, ML320, ML500 require a Premium Pkg. and glovebox-mounted 6-disc CD changer.

Adaptive cruise control
ML350/ML320, ML500, ML63	$3,150	$2,930


Illuminated door sills
ML350, ML320	$550	$512


Appearance and Miscellaneous
Steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights
	$900	$837
Includes cornering lights, washers.

Running boards
ML350, ML320, ML500	$500	$465


Side steps
ML350/ML320, ML500	$830	$772
NA ML63.

Roof rack
ML350/ML320, ML500, ML63	$200	$186


Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Trailer hitch
ML350/ML320, ML500, ML63	$500	$465

Locate a Dealer

Get a FREE Price Quote:

2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	Mercedes-Benz M-Class 4-door wagon

Wheelbase, in.	114.7

Overall Length, in.	188.5

Overall Width, in.	75.2

Overall Height, in.	71.5

Curb Weight, lbs.	4623

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	64.6

Standard Payload, lbs.	--

Fuel Capacity, gals.	25.1

Seating Capacity	5

Front Head Room, in.	39.9

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	42.2

Rear Head Room, in.	39.8

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	40.0

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Engines

	dohc V6	sohc V8	dohc V8	Turbodiesel dohc V6

Size, liters/cu. in.	3.5 /213	5.0 /303	6.2 /379	3.0 /182

Horsepower @ rpm.	268 @ 6000	302 @ 5600	503 @ 6800	215 @ 3800

Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm.	258 @ 2400	339 @ 2700	465 @ 4000	398 @ 1400

Availability	Standard	Standard	Standard	Standard

EPA City / highway mpg

7-speed automatic	17/21	14/19	12/16	21/27

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

Front Impact, Driver	5

Front Impact, Passenger	5

Rollover Resistance	4

Side Impact, Driver	5

Side Impact, Rear Passenger	5

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	None/--	--

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

< 2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Photos

Locate a Dealer

Get a FREE Price Quote:

Also in the 2007 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Review:

Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Mercedes-Benz M-Class Road Test

Mercedes-Benz M-Class Prices & Equipment

Mercedes-Benz M-Class Specs & Safety

Mercedes-Benz M-Class Photos

Mercedes-Benz M-Class Full Review