Mercedes-Benz, despite enjoying increased sales, identified a gap in their vehicle lineup that had persisted since 1993. The absence of an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) offering since that year left them exposed to competition from brands like Audi, Subaru, and Volvo. To address this, Mercedes reintroduced AWD to their E-Class sedans and wagons and, in 1997, launched the ML320 sport-utility vehicle. Expanding on this success, 1999 saw the introduction of the more powerful ML430, but it was the ML320 that laid the foundation as a unique Mercedes SUV.
The Mercedes Benz 99 Ml320 was engineered from the ground up to be a distinctive Mercedes, capable in various conditions, from off-road terrains to challenging weather, without compromising the luxury, safety, and performance expected by Mercedes customers. For the 1999 model year, the ML320 enhanced its standard features by including Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist, BabySmart child seat recognition system, and the Homelink programmable garage door opener, a testament to Mercedes’ commitment to safety and convenience. This upgrade came with only a modest price increase of approximately $1,000 in MSRP, further solidifying the ML320’s value proposition.
Alt text: Side view of a silver Mercedes Benz ML320 1999 showcasing its classic SUV profile.
Stepping up from the ML320, the ML430, with an additional cost of around $10,000, continued the Mercedes tradition of luxury and capability but offered a more refined interior and robust V8 performance. Building upon the already impressive standard equipment of the ML320, the ML430 boasted standard leather-trimmed seating, elegant burl walnut interior trim, heated eight-way power seats for enhanced comfort, an automatic dimming rearview mirror, a lockable safety box, a convenient trip computer, and privacy glass. The exterior of the ML430 was also distinct, featuring body-colored bumpers, rocker panels, rub strips, and rearview mirror housings, complemented by wider 275/55R17 tires mounted on stylish seven-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels.
These Mercedes SUVs ingeniously merged technologies typically found separately in cars or trucks. Utilizing a robust frame boxed at both ends, the M-Class achieved torsional rigidity crucial for demanding off-road driving. To this durable, truck-like frame, Mercedes integrated a four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension system. This combination resulted in an exceptional on-road driving experience, allowing the ML-Class to navigate slalom courses with speeds comparable to the E320 sedan, highlighting its surprising agility. While off-road capabilities were certainly competent, it’s worth noting that in extreme off-road scenarios, vehicles like the Land Rover Discovery might offer a more specialized level of performance.
Alt text: Interior view of a 1999 Mercedes Benz ML320 cabin, highlighting leather seats and wood trim.
Inside, the Mercedes SUVs upheld the high standards expected of vehicles bearing the iconic three-pointed star. Interior materials, with the exception of some dashboard plastic, were of premium quality. The seats provided comfort suitable for long drives, and practical features like multiple cupholders were available for both front and rear passengers. The audio system delivered excellent sound quality, and the often-criticized confusing controls of previous Mercedes models were replaced with more intuitive designs in the ML-Class.
When compared to competitors such as the GMC Yukon Denali and Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, particularly the 99 ML320, emerged as a superior choice for most drivers, only falling short in the most extreme off-road situations. For on-road driving and everyday luxury, these American rivals couldn’t match the refined driving dynamics of Mercedes’ pioneering SUV. For those considering a vehicle with four-wheel drive and a touch of luxury, overlooking the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and especially the original 99 ML320, would be a significant oversight.
