Mercedes-Benz M-Class 4x4 full 9 point review

  • Performance

    4 out of 5 stars

    Review-OnRoad There are 201bhp and 228bhp 3.0-litre diesels, with the range topped off by a high-performance 5.5-litre petrol engine. Even the lowest-powered engine is adequate, and only the power-crazed will stray beyond the 228bhp 3.0-litre diesel.

  • Ride & Handling

    4 out of 5 stars

    Review-OnRoad The M-Class is extremely composed on all but the bumpiest of roads, when the ride becomes jittery. All this makes it a great motorway cruiser, but compromises its back-lane ability. The handling is reasonably engaging and the steering weights up at speed. However, the car's off-road abilities are extremely limited.

  • Refinement

    4 out of 5 stars

    Review-OnRoad There’s no road noise, virtually no interference from headwinds at motorway speeds and all the engines are audible only when being stretched to their limits.

  • Buying & Owning

    3 out of 5 stars

    Review-Ownership Even with Mercedes' reputation, a generous discount should be possible. The M-Class's resale value will be stronger than many rivals', but will still suffer as large 4x4s fall out of favour. Running costs are high: all versions fall into very high VED road tax and company car tax bands, while even the most frugal returns an average fuel consumption of just 32.5mpg.

  • Quality & Reliability

    3 out of 5 stars

    Review-Ownership The cabin is mostly luxurious, but is slightly compromised by some hard plastic trim low down. Mercedes traditionally performs well in the JD Power Customer Satisfaction survey, but is only a midfield performer in the What Car? reliability supertest.

  • Safety & Security

    4 out of 5 stars

    Review-Ownership Front, side and curtain airbags come as standard equipment, along with anti-whiplash head restraints, pre-tensioning seat belts and a full range of electronic braking and stability aids. All versions have an alarm and immobilisation system to deter thieves.

  • Behind The Wheel

    4 out of 5 stars

    Review-Cabin Drivers can easily get comfortable, thanks to a good range of steering wheel and seat adjustment. The dashboard is sensibly laid out and everything is within easy reach, including the gear selector, which is sited on the steering column.

  • Space & Practicality

    4 out of 5 stars

    Review-Cabin The M-Class offers ample head- and legroom for four, while a centrally seated rear passenger has only a low tunnel between their feet. The boot is large and sensibly shaped. Flip the rear seat bases forward and you can create a bay that’s big and flat, while a system to secure smaller loads is also available.

  • Equipment

    4 out of 5 stars

    Review-Cabin All versions have cruise and climate control, four electric windows, automatic transmission, front and rear parking sensors, a powered tailgate, rain-sensing wipers and Bluetooth connectivity. Sport trim adds chrome and steel detailing inside and out, sports front seats, and Alcantara and leather trim options. Range-topping Grand Edition models have a unique look, with their own AMG bodykit, 20-inch alloys and black leather upholstery.

M-Class rivals

M-Class used car reviews