Mercedes-Benz M-Class ML350 review

Thanks to the tall station wagon body there’s plenty of interior space in these big Mercs and the boot is a good size, well-shaped and easy to load.

The high centre of gravity when compared to a car reduces the cornering ability of an M-Class. However, electronic stability aids make them hold the road remarkably well. Indeed, the M-class corners safely at speeds well in excess of those likely to be attempted by the average owner.

A second generation model replaced the original in April 2006, it received a facelift and upgraded mechanical components in January 2008. Each version increased the stylishness of the vehicle, but put ever more emphasis on on-road performance.

Mercedes-Benz offers a staggering range of four-, six-, and eight-cylinder engines with naturally-aspirated petrol, turbo-petrol and turbo-diesel setups. The turbo-diesels are generally the favourites, but those who like a bit more driving pleasure the V8s are the ride of choice.

At the top of the performance tree are the Mercedes-AMG variants of the M-Class. 

Seven-speed automatic transmissions are fitted to all M-Class vehicles from 2006. One with a manual gearbox was also built for the European market.

If do want to get seriously down and dirty the Mercedes Off-Road Pro packages work well. The package adds adjustable ride height and a two-speed transfer case as well as numerous other smaller items.

As part of its umpteenth revision of model titles the Mercedes M-Class was renamed the Mercedes GLE in 2015. 

Spare parts are obviously expensive for what the vehicle is. If you’re upgrading from a less prestigious vehicle it is always a good idea to do price comparisons before falling in love with a Mercedes.

What to look for

Do preliminary inspections to the best of your ability then call on the services of a professional before committing. A Mercedes-Benz trained person is the best, motoring association inspectors like AA are the second choice.

Make sure the engine starts easily, modern turbo-diesels only take a second or two on the glow plugs and any longer could indicate a problem.

Feel for the engine idling smoothly from the moment it fires up.

Make sure the engine pulls strongly without any initial hesitation. Turbo units will have a little lag, make sure you understand what to feel for, or call in a professional who does.

The automatic transmission should work almost imperceptibly, even when worked hard by your right foot.

Clues to off-road use are light scratches to the body sides, scars on bumper corners, scrapes on the underbody protection plates.

Have a good look over the interior, particularly at the seat bases and in the vicinity of the door controls. And don’t forget the luggage area.

Source: Car Guide