EDMUNDS.COM 2005 MERCEDES-BENZ M-CLASS
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
Now in its eighth year, the M-Class provides solid on-road performance along with excellent all-weather capability and a safe, feature-laden cabin. Drive it back to back with newer car-based competitors, though, and it''s obvious that its road manners no longer set the standard among luxury SUVs.
Pros
Strong range of engines, extensive array of safety features, comfortable for five, surefooted in bad weather.
Cons
On-road handling surpassed by newer crossover SUVs, expensive for what you get.
What''s New for 2005
Besides the addition of a Special Edition package that bundles together desirable features, the M-Class is unchanged for 2005.
Overview
Introduction:
Since the introduction of the M-Class in 1998, other premium-brand automakers, such as Acura, BMW, Cadillac, Infiniti, Lincoln and Volvo, have thrown their hats into the luxury SUV ring. To remain in the hunt, Mercedes has made constant improvements to its midsize SUV, increasing the feature content and performance, improving its looks and addressing the build quality issues that plagued early models. Three years ago, the M-Class received a number of improvements, both functional and aesthetic. The ML430 was succeeded by the ML500, whose 5.0-liter V8 came packing 288 horsepower, 13 more than the outgoing 4.3-liter V8. Although the 2002 ML looked nearly identical to the 2001 version, over 1,100 parts of the truck were different, such as new sideview mirrors with integral turn signals, clear-lens headlights, chrome grille accents (for the ML500), front foglamps and revised front and rear bumpers. Inside the cabin, vents were added to the rear of the console, and electronic controls replaced the old twist knobs on the climate control system. Since the revisions of 2002, Mercedes updated the navigation system from a fussy CD-based system, which required up to nine discs to cover the U.S., to a DVD-based system, which needs but one disc for the same territory. Late in the 2003 model year, the ML350 debuted as a replacement for the ML320 with the main difference between the two being the 350''s larger-displacement 3.5-liter V6. With 232 hp -- an increase of 17 over the old V6 and plenty more torque -- the ML350 offered better performance across the board. Even though there are many worthy vehicles in this segment, the M-Class'' combination of cutting-edge safety features, commendable on-road performance, plentiful creature comforts and 80.2 cubic feet of maximum cargo space still make for a desirable luxury SUV. However, newer competitors offer superior driving dynamics on pavement and more up-to-date interiors. With an all-new M-Class set to debut for the 2006 model year, this year''s model might better be left alone unless you''re able to snag a favorable deal on this lame-duck model.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The M-Class is available as a four-door SUV in two levels of trim. The standard ML350 features 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, a six-way manually adjustable driver seat and burled walnut interior trim. The ML500 gets standard leather seating, eight-way power-adjustable and heated front seats, a standard DVD-based navigation system and 17-inch wheels. Although the M-Class offers plenty of standard luxury and style, there are numerous options available, including a power glass sunroof, rain-sensing windshield wipers and a sport appearance package. Other options include a third-row seat, high-intensity discharge headlamps and an upgraded Bose sound system with a cargo bay-mounted CD changer. For those interested in a full menu of options, a new Special Edition package bundles together desirable features while adding sporty elements like a "power dome" hood and thickly bolstered seats.
Powertrains and Performance:
The ML350 is powered by a 232-hp, 3.5-liter V6, while the ML500 comes standard with a 288-hp, 5.0-liter V8. Both engines are mated to a driver-adaptive five-speed automatic transmission with a manual-shift gate. The ML350 will accelerate to 60 mph in under nine seconds, while the ML500 can accomplish the same feat in just 7.1 seconds. Both models are rated to tow a maximum of 5,000 pounds. A dual-range four-wheel-drive system is standard.
Safety:
Standard safety features include the TeleAid communications system, traction and stability control, four-wheel antilock disc brakes and eight airbags (including four side-impact bags for torso protection and two full-length head curtains). In frontal offset impact crash testing conducted by the IIHS, the ML received a "Good" rating (the highest possible) and was named a "Best Pick" among midsize SUVs.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
The M-Class has a tasteful, modern look that doesn''t sacrifice functionality. Although there are lapses here and there, materials quality is generally good, and the overall layout is easy to get comfortable with. A DVD-based navigation system is available, but don''t go looking for an in-dash CD changer -- it''s back in the cargo bay. Second-row passenger space is about average for the class, while the optional third-row seat is for children only. Cargo capacity stands at 34.7 cubic feet with the second seat up and 81.2 cubic feet with it flipped down.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Body-on-frame construction gives the M-Class a choppier ride and slower reflexes compared with the newer, car-based SUVs it competes with, but for the most part the Benz delivers stable and predictable on-road handling. Minimal ground clearance precludes it from any serious off-road adventures, but as an all-weather vehicle it excels.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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