M-Class handling fantastic for a Sports Utility Vehicle with precise steering and minimal body roll.

Though Mercedes has been producing a range of serious off-road vehicles like the G-Wagen or the Gelandewagen for a number of years now, the M-class represents their first attempt at a true Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV). Built around a solid ladder frame chassis for extra strength like all most off-road vehicles, Mercedes have broken tradition by doing away with a ‘live’ rear axle. Each of the M-class’ wheels are independently suspended via double wishbones and optimised more for on-road performance than off-road.

New headlights part of face-lift.

The M-class’ four-wheel-drive system was unique when it was launched in 1997 but has been subsequently followed by other SUVs. The 4-ETS electronic traction control system uses a dual transfer case that is flanged directly to the gearbox and divides the torque in a 50:50 ratio between the front and rear axles. A central differential using double planetary gears manages the differences in speed between the four wheels. Instead of lockable differentials, the torque is selectively distributed as per the demands at each wheel, with the massive all-disc brake system chipping in to help lock certain wheels. 4-ETS also helps in normal everyday driving, especially around corners where traction may be lost at one or more wheels due to a presence of an excess of power over grip. Twin planetary gear sets enable engagement of a special all-terrain Low Range drive ratio.

Rear wheel bracket swings away.

The M-class has recently been face-lifted with many changes and improvements, some helping keep the looks and performance up-to-date. As a result, it still looks good five years down the line. A sloping bonnet, teardrop-shaped headlamps and raked windshield provide it a stocky aggressive stance that’s impossible to ignore. Like its stable-mate the A-class, the M also features D-pillars with a wraparound rear windshield that extends all the way around. Not surprisingly, the ML represents something special: an SUV that’s not just a Mitsubishi or a Toyota, but one that wears one of the most evocative badges in motoring.

Understated yet thoroughly engineered design - typically Mercedes