The M-Class was the first mainstream SUV from Mercedes-Benz. Now in its third generation, the M-Class is primarily a road-oriented SUV with car-like ride and handling. Competitors in this segment include the BMW X5, Infiniti FX, Cadillac SRX, Porsche Cayenne, and Lincoln MKX. Mercedes-Benz offers the base ML350 with a 3.5L V-6 rated at 302-bhp. A standard 7-speed automatic is optimized for maximum fuel economy. Buyers looking to further improve their fuel economy can opt for the ML350 BLUETEC diesel model which is rated at 20 MPG City, 27 MPG Highway. The M-Class is also offered with two different V8 engines. The ML550 equips a 4.7l V8 rated at 402-bhp, whereas the AMG performance model of the series equips a 518-bhp hand built 5.5l V8. Pricing starts at about $50,000 and does not include leather upholstery.

What Changed:

The 3rd generation M-Class is longer and wider, yet shorter in height than its predecessor. Four models are offered: the ML350 with a gasoline powered V6, and the ML350 BlueTEC with a diesel burning V6, the ML550 with a 402-bhp V8 and the ML63 AMG with a 518-bhp V8. All-wheel-drive (dubbed 4MATIC) is standard.