Mercedes-Benz entered the luxury SUV market in 1998 with the M-Class, prompting numerous premium brands to follow suit. To maintain its position, Mercedes consistently enhanced its midsize SUV, focusing on features, performance, aesthetics, and build quality, particularly addressing early model issues. However, faced with increasingly sophisticated car-based SUVs that offered superior handling and design, Mercedes recognized the need for a significant update. The 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML350, alongside the ML500, emerged as the answer, delivering enhanced power, improved handling, and a wealth of upscale features.
The 2006 M-Class marked a substantial evolution. It grew six inches longer overall, boasting a four-inch-longer wheelbase and an additional two inches in width. While these increased dimensions might suggest a larger cargo area, the storage space actually decreased slightly to 72.4 cubic feet with the 60/40-split rear seats folded. Instead, the added space prioritized passenger comfort, providing more legroom and shoulder room within the cabin. Notably, a third-row seat option was discontinued, with the newly introduced R-Class wagon taking over family-oriented duties.
A key advancement in the 2006 Mercedes-Benz M-Class was its shift to a unibody chassis construction, replacing the previous body-on-frame design. This new platform resulted in a structure that was stiffer, lighter, and significantly better suited to provide the refined ride quality expected of a Mercedes-Benz. Despite its larger footprint, the ML350’s ground clearance was reduced compared to its predecessor, contributing to a more assertive and grounded stance on the road. Powering the ML350 was a newly developed 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 268 horsepower. The ML500 retained a V8, but its 5.0-liter unit saw a power increase from 288 to 302 horsepower. Both engine variants were paired with a sophisticated seven-speed automatic transmission, channeling power through a permanent four-wheel-drive system for confident traction in various conditions.
Inside the cabin of the 2006 ML350, the design represented an evolution rather than a revolution. It offered a more spacious and airy ambiance compared to the previous M-Class, and a marked improvement in materials quality was evident, with generous use of wood and aluminum trim enhancing the sense of luxury. A practical and noticeable change was the relocation of the gear shifter from the center console to a steering column stalk. This adjustment freed up valuable space on the console, making room for larger cupholders, designed to better accommodate American-sized drinks.
The original Mercedes-Benz M-Class capitalized on a burgeoning market trend, exceeding even Mercedes’ initial expectations. While the premium SUV segment had become considerably more competitive by 2006, the redesigned Mercedes-Benz ML350 effectively combined advanced safety technologies, commendable on-road dynamics, and a comprehensive array of comfort and convenience features. This blend ensured that this pioneering luxury SUV remained a top contender, firmly positioned among the best vehicles in its class, offering a compelling package for discerning buyers.
