Mercedes-Benz M-Class
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a luxury SUV that combines German engineering with serious off-road capability? The Mercedes-Benz M-Class might be exactly what you need. This premium mid-size SUV delivers the sophisticated comfort and build quality you’d expect from Mercedes, wrapped in a practical family-friendly package. It’s the perfect choice for drivers who want luxury without compromising on versatility or capability.

The M-Class carved out its own niche in the competitive luxury SUV market by offering genuine off-road ability alongside on-road refinement. While rivals like the BMW X5 focus more on sporty handling, the M-Class prioritises comfort and capability. The interior showcases typical Mercedes attention to detail, with premium materials and intuitive controls creating an upscale cabin environment. You’ll find plenty of space for five adults and their luggage, making it ideal for family adventures.

What sets the M-Class apart is its balanced approach to luxury and practicality. The ride quality is superbly comfortable, soaking up road imperfections while maintaining composure through corners. The range of efficient engines, including excellent diesel options, keeps running costs reasonable for such a substantial vehicle. It’s a car that makes every journey feel special, whether you’re navigating city traffic or exploring country lanes with confidence.

What's the Mercedes-Benz M-Class Like to Drive?

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class offers a well-rounded selection of engines designed for smooth, refined performance rather than outright sportiness. The popular ML350 CDI diesel provides excellent torque delivery with around 258 horsepower, making overtaking effortless and motorway cruising relaxed. Petrol options include the ML350 with a 3.5-litre V6 producing 306 horsepower, offering brisk acceleration and a satisfying engine note. For those wanting more excitement, the ML63 AMG delivers supercar-rivalling performance with its thunderous V8.

Where the M-Class truly excels is in its composed, confidence-inspiring driving experience. The suspension expertly balances comfort with control, providing a smooth ride over rough surfaces while maintaining stability in corners. The steering is well-weighted and precise, making this substantial luxury SUV feel manageable in tight spaces. All models feature permanent four-wheel drive, delivering excellent traction in all weather conditions. It’s a vehicle that feels solid and dependable, inspiring confidence whether you’re tackling school runs or weekend adventures.

Inside the Mercedes-Benz M-Class: Comfort & Features

Step inside the M-Class and you’re immediately struck by the premium cabin environment that defines modern Mercedes luxury. The dashboard design is elegant and functional, featuring high-quality materials throughout including soft-touch plastics, genuine wood trim, and supple leather upholstery. The front seats are exceptionally comfortable, offering excellent support for long journeys with multiple adjustment options. The driving position is commanding yet refined, giving you a great view of the road ahead.

The cabin is remarkably quiet, with excellent sound insulation keeping wind and road noise to a minimum. Standard equipment includes climate control, cruise control, and a comprehensive infotainment system with satellite navigation. Higher specification models add luxurious touches like heated and ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, and premium audio systems. The attention to detail is evident throughout, from the precise operation of switches to the quality of interior lighting. It’s a cabin that makes even mundane journeys feel like a premium experience.

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class represents luxury SUV motoring at its finest, delivering a compelling blend of comfort, capability, and prestige. Its refined ride quality and premium interior make it an exceptional choice for those prioritising comfort over sporty dynamics. The range of efficient engines, particularly the diesel options, provides strong performance with reasonable fuel economy for such a substantial vehicle.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Mercedes-Benz M-Class?

As a premium German SUV, the M-Class comes with higher running costs than mainstream alternatives, but they’re competitive within the luxury segment. The diesel engines are the most economical choice, with the ML320 CDI capable of achieving around 35-38 mpg in real-world driving. Even the larger ML350 CDI manages respectable fuel consumption for such a substantial vehicle. Insurance costs reflect the car’s premium positioning, typically falling into higher groups, though the excellent safety record helps moderate premiums.

The initial purchase price positions the M-Class as a premium choice, but its strong residual values help offset the higher upfront cost. Mercedes parts and servicing are more expensive than mainstream brands, but the build quality generally means fewer unexpected repairs. Regular maintenance is crucial to avoid costly problems later, particularly with the diesel emissions systems. For many buyers, car finance options make the M-Class more accessible, spreading the cost over manageable monthly payments while enjoying immediate access to this premium SUV experience.

Is the Mercedes-Benz M-Class Practical for Everyday Use?

The M-Class strikes an excellent balance between luxury and everyday usability, making it a practical choice for families and active lifestyles. The 540-litre boot provides generous space for luggage, shopping, or sports equipment, with a low loading lip making it easy to lift heavy items. The rear seats fold in a 60/40 split configuration, creating a substantial flat loading area for larger cargo. Interior storage is well thought out, with plenty of cubbyholes, door pockets, and cup holders scattered throughout the cabin.

Passenger space is generous, with comfortable seating for five adults on shorter journeys. The rear seats offer good legroom and headroom, though the middle seat is best reserved for children due to the pronounced transmission tunnel. The high seating position and large windows provide excellent visibility for all occupants. For families considering used Mercedes-benz cars, the M-Class offers the perfect combination of luxury and practicality without the massive size of the larger GL-Class models.

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class stands out in the competitive luxury SUV segment by offering genuine refinement and capability in equal measure. It combines Mercedes’ renowned build quality, sophisticated ride comfort, and premium interior appointments with practical everyday usability. While it may not be the most dynamic or affordable SUV in its class, it excels in the areas that matter most for daily driving comfort, quality, and long-term satisfaction.

You choose the M-Class because you want a luxury SUV that doesn’t compromise on comfort or capability. Its smooth engines, refined ride quality, and spacious interior make it ideal for everything from family holidays to business trips. It represents excellent value in the used market, offering access to premium German engineering at more accessible prices. For those seeking a sophisticated SUV with genuine character, the M-Class delivers an experience that few rivals can match, particularly when exploring options for cars under £30,000.