Mercedes-Benz, a name synonymous with luxury and innovation, recognized a shift in the automotive landscape in the late 1990s. Consumers were increasingly drawn to the versatility and commanding presence of SUVs, and Mercedes aimed to capture this burgeoning market. After a hiatus in offering all-wheel-drive vehicles, Mercedes re-entered the AWD arena with the E-Class and then, in 1997, boldly stepped into the SUV segment with the Mercedes ML320. For 1999, the ML320 continued to refine its offering, solidifying its place as a contender in the luxury SUV category, while also welcoming a more powerful sibling, the ML430, to the lineup.
The 1999 Mercedes Ml320 was meticulously engineered to be a true Mercedes, capable both on and off the paved road. It was designed to navigate challenging weather conditions and even venture off-road trails without compromising the core Mercedes values of luxury, safety, and performance that discerning customers had come to expect. For this model year, Mercedes enhanced the ML320’s standard equipment, including the addition of Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist, the BabySmart child seat recognition system, and the Homelink programmable garage door opener. Despite these valuable upgrades, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) saw a modest increase of only $1,000, making the 1999 ML320 an even more compelling package.
Stepping inside the 1999 Mercedes ML320, occupants were greeted with an interior that prioritized comfort and functionality. While the original article notes some plastic on the dashboard, the overall material quality was considered high for its class. The seats were designed for long-distance comfort, ensuring a pleasant experience even on extended journeys. Practicality was also a focus, with ample cupholders for both front and rear passengers, addressing the needs of families and road trippers alike. The audio system delivered impressive sound quality, and the often-criticized confusing controls of previous Mercedes models were replaced with more user-friendly and intuitive secondary controls.
Alt text: 1999 Mercedes ML320 interior view showcasing dashboard, steering wheel, and leather seats, highlighting the car’s blend of luxury and functionality.
Underneath the skin, the 1999 Mercedes ML320 boasted a robust construction. Utilizing a frame boxed at both ends, the M-Class achieved a torsional rigidity typically associated with serious off-road vehicles. This strong foundation was complemented by a sophisticated four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension system. This combination resulted in exceptional on-road ride quality, allowing the ML320 to handle with surprising agility, even matching the slalom performance of the E320 sedan. While capable off-road, it was acknowledged that more specialized off-road vehicles like the Land Rover Discovery might possess superior capabilities in extreme conditions. However, for the vast majority of drivers, the 1999 ML320 offered a more than adequate balance of on-road refinement and off-road competence.
In comparing the 1999 Mercedes ML320 to its American competitors such as the GMC Yukon Denali and Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, the original review positioned the M-Class as a superior choice for most drivers. While the American SUVs might cater to more extreme off-road scenarios, the ML320 excelled in providing a more refined on-road experience and a higher level of overall luxury. The review confidently stated that for buyers considering a four-wheel-drive vehicle, overlooking the Mercedes-Benz M-Class would be a significant oversight. The 1999 Mercedes ML320 successfully bridged the gap between rugged capability and sophisticated luxury, establishing a strong foothold for Mercedes-Benz in the burgeoning SUV market and setting the stage for future generations of Mercedes SUVs.
Alt text: Side profile of a silver 1999 Mercedes ML320 driving on a paved road, emphasizing its SUV body style and alloy wheels, suitable for both city and off-road environments.
