Mercedes Benz ML350 SUV

Test drivers say that the 2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class has a comfortable ride and opulent interior, but its handling ability falls short of many competitors.

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class comes standard with a V6 engine that critics report has adequate power. They add that the available diesel engine has plenty of punch and models with the twin-turbocharged V6 offer rapid acceleration. The AMG variant has a twin-turbocharged V8 that makes the M-Class extremely quick, test drivers say. A seven-speed automatic transmission is standard, as is rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is optional on the base trim and standard on all other trims. A base 2015 M-Class gets an EPA-estimated 18/24 mpg city/highway, which is typical for the class. With the diesel engine, fuel economy is 22/29 mpg, which is very good for a luxury midsize SUV. Most critics write that the M-Class’ handling isn’t as athletic as that of many rivals, such as the BMW X5. Still, they say the M-Class feels composed through turns and rides comfortably over bumps.

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class' interior is lavishly appointed with upscale materials, auto writers report. They add that the rear seats are spacious and the front seats are supportive and offer good rearward visibility. The M-Class’ cargo space is very good for the class. Standard features in the 2015 M-Class include Bluetooth, HD Radio, a USB port, dual-zone automatic climate control and Mercedes’ COMAND infotainment system with a 7-inch display screen. Options include a Harman Kardon or Bang & Olufsen audio system, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, navigation, a rearview camera and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system. Most test drivers say that it is easy to control various infotainment functions using COMAND.

• "Whether it's the fuel-sipping ML250 BlueTEC diesel, the fire-breathing ML63 AMG, or any of the ones in between, the Mercedes M-Class offers up a combination of luxurious appointments, a quiet and comfortable ride, and real-world capability that's tough to find elsewhere." - Kelley Blue Book
• "The Mercedes-Benz M-Class, now in its third generation, is a mid-size SUV that counts the BMW X5, Lexus RS350 and Cadillac SRX as some of its key competitors. Heavy and quiet as a bank vault, it offers a high level of luxury and offers buyers V6, V8 and turbodiesel engine options." - Left Lane News
• "The 2015 Mercedes-Benz M-Class may not be a standout among its rivals in any single category, but its supremely comfortable cabin and wide variety of engines and packages gives it broad appeal." - Edmunds

Other SUVs to Consider

Test drivers agree that the Porsche Cayenne has very athletic handling and communicative steering. The Cayenne Diesel returns good fuel economy for the class, and reviewers like the Cayenne’s high-quality cabin construction.

The BMW X5’s base engine has ample power and delivers swift acceleration, reviewers say. Test drivers report that the X5 has nimble handling and a comfortable ride, and they say its iDrive infotainment system is user-friendly.