Find it in our used car search now

Mercedes M Class (98 - 05)

Ratings

2 stars

Summary

Not recommended. Disappointingly crude off-roader that sells on its badge and little else. Indifferent on-road performance and cheap-feeling build construction mean it's no match for the BMW X5.

Review

The M Class shouldn't really be here. It is built in America for American tastes, and in Europe it feels unpolished and rough. Old-fashioned separate chassis gives a poor ride and indifferent cornering. The cabin is large, but the plastics feel far flimsier than you would expect in a Merc. And it can't get close to a Land Rover Discovery or Mitsubishi Shogun off-road. Basic 3.2 V6 is the sweetest petrol engine, 5.0 and 5.5 V8s offer more performance but truly appalling fuel economy. 2.7 CDI turbodiesel is the best powerplant, especially when working with the optional smooth-shifting autobox.

Ratings Breakdown

Styling

star

Handling

3 star

Comfort

3 star

Quality & Reliability

2 star

Performance

3 star

Roominess

3 star

Running Costs

2 star

Value for money

2 star

Stereo

3 star

Add a Comment

16.9% APR Typical Variable Netcars expects 66% of it's customers to qualify for this rate or better. The rate you get will depend on your circumstances.
Netcars is authorised and regulated by the financial services authority.