Mercedes-Benz M-Class (05-11) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 17 April 2009
The M-Class is Mercedes-Benz back at its best. The styling is understated and elegant, the interior is comfortable and attractive, plus it drives well - both on and off-road - the whole package oozes subtle sophistication. There are some cracking engines too, including a whisper-quiet V6 diesel, a very powerful 4.2-litre diesel and a sublime 5.0-litre V8. And if that's not enough, a 510bhp 6.3-litre AMG model which is covered in a separate review. Although the M-Class doesn't come cheap, list prices are close to that of similar off roaders and there's plenty of standard equipment. In October 2008 it was facelifted with slight exterior tweaks (including new headlights) while the diesel models were made cleaner and more economical.
4 out of 5

Other Mercedes-Benz reviews

4.5 out of 5

Safety

The M-Class received a five-star crash safety rating from Euro NCAP which is the maximum rating available. As well as dual front, side and window airbags, ABS with brake assist, electronic stability programme, anti-skid control and seatbelt pre-tensioners, it also comes with 'Pre-Safe'. This system senses that the car may be about to be involved in a accident and prepares the key safety systems for a possible collision - the seatbelts are tightened, it moves the seats into a better position and closes the sunroof if the car is about to roll. Security features include an alarm, immobiliser and remote central locking.

NCAP Test

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  • Adult Occupant Rating

    5 out of 5

  • Child Protection Rating

    3 out of 5

  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    1 out of 5
4 out of 5

Reliability

Mercedes-Benz's reputation for high quality engineering and quality has taken a knock in recent years. However, the M-Class seems to show the firm is back on track. The plasticky interior of the old 1998-2005 car has been replaced by one that feels much higher quality. We're expecting few - if any - mechanical problems.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

A recall in 2008 for an electrical connection issue which could cause the engine to lose power.

Other

A recall in 2008 for a potential software problem which could cause the engine to perform an emergency shut off. Very few cars are affected though.