2011 MERCEDES BENZ ML-Klasse (W166) 500 BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC 7AT AWD (408 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Mercedes-Benz introduced the third generation of the ML-Class in 2011 and brought more refinement into one of the cars that raised the bar for its competitors.

With more and more customers looking for SUVs with car-like handling, the German carmaker adapted its range. The carmaker sold one million units from the ML-Class from the first two generations before introducing the third one. It already knew how to win the customers’ hearts (and money).

At the front, its headlights were similarly shaped like those from the C-Class W204 non-facelift. The big grille with two horizontal slats sported the big three-pointed-star chromed badge in the middle. Mercedes-Benz installed new LED daytime running lights on the bumper’s sides. The ML showed an SUV styling with a two-box shape and tall greenhouse and side panels from its sides. Depending on the trim level and options, the car featured a pair of side-steps.

Inside, the carmaker installed a new dashboard design with a center stack that sported the infotainment display on top. The instrument cluster featured two round dials for the speedometer and tachometer, while the car displayed the rest of the data in a small LCD between the big dials. Inside the big dials, Mercedes-Benz installed two small gauges for the fuel level and the coolant temperature. Thanks to the high-mounted seats, the driving position was relaxed for long drives, while the rear passengers were able to slide their feet under the front seats. There was room for three adults on the bench since the transmission tunnel sat very low on the floor.

Mercedes-Benz offered the ML with a choice of three gasoline and two turbo-diesel engines. The carmaker paired all powerplants with a seven-speed automatic transmission that sent power in all corners.