Base ML 320 BlueTEC 4dr All-Wheel Drive 4MATIC
2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class SUV is just the right size and is set up well for many families. It isn't so large that it's cumbersome or hard to park, but it comfortably seats five and carries plenty of stuff. As daily transportation, it doesn't feel like a truck, and it won't beat its driver or passengers up. Yet it has the potential for some fairly serious off-road adventuring, and it can tow up to 7,200 pounds. The M-Class is more than powerful enough in any of its variations. And it offers the safety equipment, luxury accoutrements, style and smooth finish expected of a Mercedes-Benz.

For 2009, a new ML320 BlueTEC joins the line (replacing the previous ML320 CDI turbo-diesel). BlueTEC is the latest clean diesel technology from Mercedes designed to meet the most stringent 50-state emissions limits, while delivering an EPA-estimated 24 mpg on the highway. Yet, like its predecessor, the 3.0-liter BlueTEC diesel V6 generates 398 pound-feet of torque, comparable to a large-displacement V8.

Also new is a lower-priced, two-wheel-drive version of the V6-powered ML350. Continuing for 2009 is the four-wheel-drive ML350, along with the V8-powered ML550 and the ultra-high performance ML63 AMG. (All of these run on gasoline.)

The ML63 AMG features a 6.2-liter V8 that generates 503 horsepower, with AMG tuning and enhancements to match all that power. Though considerably more expensive than other M-Class models, the ML63 AMG is a true high-performance machine. Its engine is hand-built by a single technician. It bursts from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, according to Mercedes, with top speed electronically limited to 155 mph. Plus, it comes with the full load of luxury features.

With 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque, the 5.5-liter ML550 reaches 60 in 5.6 seconds. It sports the same front end look as the ML63, but without all the amenities and super-performance equipment, and starts at roughly $34,000 less.

Since it first appeared for 1998, the M-Class has helped make luxury SUVs a familiar part of the automotive landscape. The second and current generation, which arrived for 2006, is larger inside and out than the original, and also aerodynamically slipperier. Still, the M-Class is strictly a five-seater. You'll want to look at the GL-Class for seven-seat accommodations in a Mercedes SUV.

The current model is built using car-like unibody construction with isolated front and rear subframes, a technique that emphasizes rigidity, decreased vibration and lowers weight. A double-wishbone front suspension and four-link independent rear suspension emphasize sedan-style dynamics. Yet with a two-range transfer case on most models, and a sophisticated control program for the full-time all-wheel-drive, the M-Class can get its driver through some tricky off-road situations. M-Class buyers will pay a premium over many other comparably equipped luxury SUVs, but those who appreciate the cache and engineering strengths of the …
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