Mercedes-Benz M-Class (1998 - 2004) ML350 5d Tip Auto (02) Owner Review

I bought the ML with my head not my heart, I don’t especially like the looks but compared to other large 4x4’s its a used bargain. Being Mercedes it will be expensive when it does go wrong but that won’t happen often unlike a RR or X5. Its cavernous load area and easy folding seats make it a top choice for moving stuff and it’s bullet-proof mechanicals and steel chassis promise a very long life. I did 55000 miles in my first one and had a couple electrical issues - ignition CPU and later the gearbox CPU but once sorted the car was 100% reliable. Brakes and servicing are MB expensive even at an independent but you don’t expect Ford Fiesta costs on a car like this. Tyres last well and are cheap. The V6 petrol is powerful, smooth and not excessively thirsty and more dependable and cheaper to maintain than the rattly 2.7 turbo diesel, you’ll get 20-22 on a run and 15 round town. Driving it is not as exciting as an X5 and not as regal as a RR but you sit high and the seats are sublime on long journeys; its smooth and quiet with low wind noise so long journeys are relaxing. The ride is jiggly and the handling and steering is bus like but it’s far better than most Japanese and American competitors. Off road it is amazingly competent and second only to a RR or Land Cruiser. I never loved this car but I did miss it when it went last year - so much so that I have just bought another one.