2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Review & Road Test

After a decade of flirting with popular fashion and building such sub-Mercedes as the first M-Class at the risk of its reputation, Mercedes-Benz is getting back to its roots. The new M-Class, a luxury transportation module with style and elegance, is where it starts.

The 1998 W163 broke ground as a luxury crossover vehicle but hurt itself with early quality issues. The first M was too short on luxury for a Mercedes and didn't have the expected ride, handling, and refinement. The 2006 W164 M-Class is new from the ground up. Its optional 5.0-liter V-8 is the only major component that carries over from the 2005 model, with power upped from 288 to 302 horses. Mercedes figures the ML500 will account for 25 to 30 percent of M-Class sales, with the rest going to the ML350 and its excellent 268-horse, 3.5-liter 24-valve V-6 that replaces and outpowers the old SOHC, 18-valve six. Both engines achieve SULEV emissions status for trucks and come standard with the smooth 7G-TRONIC transmission (its gearshift is an electronic control on the steering column and makes room for two big cupholders in the console). Most important, the new M ditches the old M's platform for a unibody that allows for better, tighter panel gaps.

As for the switch from a truck frame, these were never meant to be serious off-roaders, and the new model, available again only with all-wheel drive, is now sans the W163's two-speed transfer case, contributing to a 200-pound weight saving. Still, the new MLs are much more capable off-road than necessary. A hill-descent control uses ABS sensors and the seven-speed autobox to maintain single-digit mph on steep downhill runs. The optional Airmatic height-adjustable air suspension raises the body for an extra three inches of ground clearance (up to 77 mph). Order this option for off-roading; for lower approach/departure/ breakover angles, the new M-Class is longer, lower, and wider than the sport/utility it replaces.

Mercedes has further added four inches to the wheelbase and six inches to the overall length for better everything--interior space, ride, and looks. The grille, in the silver and chrome of the ML500, looks concept-car cool with its 40 tiny openings and truck-style oversized three-pointed star. The V-8 has brushed-chrome skidplates front and rear, 18-inch five-spoke wheels, and exclusive, square-shaped chrome dual exhausts. Chrome door handle trim and side molding trim come standard on the V-8, optional in an appearance package on the V-6. The M-Class's profile suggests a wedge, with bold, integrated front overfenders and a slanted beltline melding into the integrated rear overfenders. The rear bumper has a bit of fat, but the tail is wide and aggressive-looking with eyebrow-like creases over its taillamps.