A lot has changed since the Mercedes-Benz M-Class luxury SUV first entered the marketplace for the 1998 model year. Back then, there was only a handful of luxury SUVs to choose from. Today, almost all luxury brands have an SUV in their showroom.
After an eight-year run, the M-Class needed an update. For 2006, Mercedes-Benz has prepared an all-new second generation model designed with more interior room and a more car-like ride.
The all-new M-Class is 5.9-inches longer, 2.8-inches wider and 0.4-inches lower on the road than its predecessor. Its wheelbase is almost four-inches longer making the new M-Class feel more stable on the road.
Wider, longer, lower – the all-new M-Class makes a bolder statement than its predecessor. Exterior styling is noticeably more sleek and aggressive. I like the new look.
Beneath its aerodynamic exterior is an all-new unibody construction as well as a new suspension designed to provide improved on-road performance and comfort.
While the new M-Class has clearly evolved toward a more on-road orientation, an optional off-road package provides more off-road capability than ever before.
New and useful technology abounds in the 2006 M-Class, including a standard seven-speed automatic transmission, an even more effective full-time four-wheel-drive system and optional features such as height-adjustable AIRMATIC air suspension. A revised four-wheel traction control system now incorporates functions such as a downhill driving aid and a hill-holder.
The second-generation M-Class will be available with a choice of two engines. The ML350 ($40,525) is powered by a new-generation 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 268-horsepower and 258-lb.ft. of torque. The ML500 ($49,275) has a higher level of standard equipment, including a 5.0-liter V8 engine with 302-horsepower and 339-lb.ft. of torque.
Inside, a completely new interior is marked by a sport-oriented instrument panel, a multi-function steering wheel and instrument cluster, rich interior materials and significantly improved spaciousness for all five seating positions.
By comparison, there’s over two inches of additional front leg room, and rear-passenger knee and leg room have also been increased.
Passengers will appreciate the roomier cabin, but some of that room comes at the expense of cargo capacity. If you need space for fairly large items, you’ll need to fold down the 60/40 split rear seat.
Seating capacity in the new M-Class is five. If you need a third row seat, Mercedes-Benz now offers the family-friendly R-Class wagon.
The M-Class buyers can select from standard cloth or optional leather seating inserts on ML350 models while ML500 models feature standard leather.
Audiofiles will appreciate the optional harmon/kardon Logic 7 audio system featuring a glove-box mounted 6-disc CD changer with auxiliary input for MP3 players.
I grew quite fond of my ML350 tester during our weeklong test thanks to its pleasing road manners and sure-footed traction. Some media have complained that the V6 is a bit sluggish from a stop, but I found it to be very responsive. Those wanting more power can step up to the ML500.
My ML350 felt planted to the road and exhibited only a small amount of body roll when pushed hard in corners. Overall, the ride is comfortable and well-mannered.
Continuing the Mercedes-Benz commitment to occupant safety, the 2006 M-Class comes standard with two-stage adaptive air bags for the driver and front passenger, window curtain air bags as well as belt tensioners and belt force limiters.
A rollover sensor can deploy the belt tensioners and the curtain air bags if the vehicle senses an imminent rollover.
Those looking for a luxury SUV certainly have many choices and Mercedes-Benz has proven they realize that with the all-new M-Class.
2006 Mercedes-Benz ML350
Engine 3.5-liter (268 hp) V6
Transmission 7-speed automatic
Drive Type AWD
Fuel Economy 16 city/ 20 highway
Base Price $39,750
As Tested $48,880 (includes $775 for destination)
Website http://www.mbusa.com |
