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Summary
The Mercedes-Benz M-Class is a fine line of SUVs. While some 4X4s offer chunkier tires and greater ground clearance than the M-Class, and may be more capable off-road, they behave more like trucks on the highway. Other sport-utilities, such as the Lexus RX 330, feel more like a car than the M-Class on pavement. But they offer limited off-road capability. Other SUVs are bigger and more luxurious. But it's difficult to find one that does as many things as well as the M-Class. Nor do many offer safety technology that's as sophisticated or complete.You'll pay a bit more for an M-Class than you will for some comparably equipped luxury SUVs, but for many there is no substitute for the Mercedes Tri-star.
(Source: New Cars Test Drive)
Model Line Overview
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Model Lineup:
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Mercedes-Benz ML350 ($36,950); ML500 ($45,700) |
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Engines:
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5.0-liter sohc 24-valve V8 |
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Transmissions:
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5-speed automatic |
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Saftey Equipment (standard):
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dual-stage driver and front-passenger airbags, front and rear side-impact airbags, curtain-style head protection airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters, ABS with electronic brake distribution, traction control, electronic stability control |
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Saftey Equipment (optional):
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none |
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Basic Warranty:
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4 years/50,000 miles |
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Assembled In:
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Vance, Alabama |
Specifications As Tested
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Model Tested (MSRP):
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Mercedes-Benz ML350 ($36,950) |
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Standard Equipment:
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power windows with one-button operation, cruise control, remote keyless entry, dual heated eight-way power bucket seats, split sliding rear seats, speed-sensitive power steering, tilt steering column, heated outside mirrors, automatic climate control with cabin dust/pollen air filtration system, programmable HomeLink garage-door opener, front fog lights, single rear foglamp, automatic halogen headlights |
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Options As Tested (MSRP):
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Inspiration Edition ($2540) includes silver-painted chrome grille, anthracite interior w silver stitching, six-spoke 17-inch wheels, poplar designo wood, sport seats, floor mats, M1 package with power front seats, privacy glass, leather interior, metallic paint; M5 sunroof package with power rear quarter windows ($1350) |
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Destination Charge:
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720 |
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Gas Guzzler Tax:
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Price As Tested (MSRP):
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41560 |
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Layout:
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all-wheel drive |
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Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
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232 @ 5750 |
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Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
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254 @ 3000-4500 |
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Transmission:
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5-speed automatic |
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EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
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15/18 |
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Wheelbase:
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111 |
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Length/width/height:
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182.6/72.4/71.7 |
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Track, f/r:
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61.2/61.2 |
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Turning circle:
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37 |
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Seating capacity:
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5 |
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Head/hip/leg room, f:
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39.8/NA/40.3 |
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Head/hip/leg room, m:
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Head/hip/leg room, r:
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39.7/NA/38.0 |
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Cargo volume:
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81.2 |
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Payload:
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|
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Towing capacity:
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5000 |
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Suspension, f:
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independent |
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Suspension, r:
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independent |
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Ground clearance:
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8.7 |
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Curb weight:
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4819 |
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Tires:
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255/60HR17 |
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Brakes, f/r:
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vented disc/disc with ABS, EBD, Brake Assist |
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Fuel capacity:
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22.6 |
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