The 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML320 marked a significant step in the evolution of the M-Class, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to refining and enhancing their SUV offering. From its initial introduction, Mercedes-Benz consistently improved the M-Class, focusing on enriching feature content, boosting performance, refining its aesthetic appeal, and resolving early build-quality concerns. The 2001 ML320 stands as a testament to these ongoing enhancements, presenting a compelling package for those seeking a luxury SUV.
Engine and Performance of the ML320
At the heart of the base ML320 lies a spirited 3.2-liter V6 engine, delivering a robust 215 horsepower. This engine provides ample power for daily driving and ensures the ML320 feels responsive and energetic in various driving conditions. For those desiring even more power, the upscale ML430 offers a potent 4.3-liter V8, generating 268 horsepower. At the top of the performance spectrum, the AMG-designed ML55 boasts a formidable 5.5-liter V8, producing an impressive 342 horsepower. Regardless of engine choice, all 2001 M-Class models are equipped with a driver-adaptive five-speed automatic transmission featuring TouchShift control, allowing for manual gear changes when desired.
Enhanced Drivetrain and Off-Road Features
A notable upgrade for the 2001 model year is the inclusion of an enhanced full-time four-wheel-drive system. This system provides a 50/50 torque distribution to the front and rear wheels through the M-Class’s fully independent suspension, improving traction and stability in diverse conditions. Further enhancing its capability is a new downhill traction control system, inspired by BMW’s Hill Descent Control. This system automatically regulates vehicle speed when descending steep slopes with loose surfaces, ensuring controlled and safe descents. Complementing this is a new “two-foot” crawling mode, designed to provide similar control during steep uphill climbs at low speeds. This mode, activated in low range at speeds under 3 mph, maximizes traction in challenging off-road situations. Contributing to these improvements in off-road maneuverability is an active brake booster, which increases pressure assistance more rapidly, enabling quicker braking response to spinning wheels.
Safety and Reliability of the 2001 ML320
Mercedes-Benz prioritized safety in the 2001 ML320, equipping it with features comparable to their acclaimed sedans. These safety features include TeleAid emergency calling system, traction control, stability control, anti-lock brakes (ABS), dual-stage “smart” airbags, and 24-hour roadside assistance. The robust construction of the M-Class also contributed to its safety performance, earning it the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s “Best Pick” rating in the SUV class for occupant protection, highlighting its crashworthiness.
Interior, Trims, and Options
Stepping inside the base ML320 reveals a well-appointed interior featuring leather upholstery and elegant burl walnut trim, creating a luxurious ambiance. The upscale ML430 further enhances the interior with standard GPS navigation, 17-inch wheels, and leather seats. For added versatility, a third-row seat option is available for both the ML320 and ML430 models. To inject a sportier aesthetic, a new sport package was offered, including unique body cladding, integrated fog lamps, a chrome exhaust tip, and 17-inch alloy wheels, aiming to reduce the perceived “minivan” appearance of the ML. For those seeking maximum sportiness, the ML55 AMG model delivers with its powerful V8 engine, 18-inch wheels, a distinctive power dome hood, and eye-catching red brake calipers.
On-Road Versatility and Conclusion
The 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML320 effectively blends safety, solid on-road performance, and capability in various weather conditions. Coupled with a spacious cargo area offering up to 80.2 cubic feet of maximum capacity and a comprehensive list of standard equipment, the ML320 presents a compelling package as a luxury sport-utility vehicle. However, despite the drivetrain enhancements for 2001, those with serious off-roading ambitions might consider alternatives. The M-Class, while possessing a robust boxed frame and four-wheel drive, is ultimately more at home on paved roads and highways than tackling extreme off-road trails, making it an ideal choice for everyday luxury and practicality.
