Mercedes-Benz M-class W166 ML 350 BlueTEC (258 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC


Overall Rating

8.2 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 3.5 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 4.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Mercedes-Benz M-class:

The Mercedes-Benz GLE, formerly Mercedes-Benz M-Class , is a mid-size luxury SUV produced by the German manufacturer Mercedes-Benz since 1997. In terms of size, it is slotted in between the smaller GLC and the larger GLS, the latter with which it shares platforms.
The first-generation M-Class, designated with the model code W163, is a body-on-frame SUV and was produced until 2004. The second-generation M-Class moved to a unibody platform while sharing most components with the GL-Class, which sports a longer body to accommodate third-row seating....(Read more on Wikipedia)

W166 Overview:

Mercedes-Benz M-class (W166). With 620 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~8.1 l/100km). At around 2175 kg, it’s on the heavier side. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.4 s). The top speed reaches 224 km/h. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Euro NCAP Year 2011
Adult Occupant 96%
Stars 5
Expert Note:
The W166 M-Class achieved an excellent 5-star Euro NCAP rating, demonstrating high levels of adult and child occupant protection.

ML 350 BlueTEC (258 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Offers robust torque and good acceleration, providing a strong balance of power and economy for an all-rounder.

Fuel Economy

Very good fuel efficiency for a powerful diesel SUV, ideal for mixed driving conditions and long trips.

Best Use Case: All-round family SUV, long-distance travel, towing, and daily driving.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Luxurious and spacious interior with high-quality materials
  • • Comfortable and refined ride quality, especially with optional air suspension
  • • Strong and diverse engine lineup, from efficient diesels to powerful AMG V8s
  • • Excellent safety ratings and advanced driver-assistance systems
  • • Capable off-road performance for its class (with appropriate options)

Cons:

  • • Higher running costs, particularly for petrol V8 and AMG models
  • • Infotainment system can feel dated compared to newer rivals
  • • Some interior plastics not quite up to the premium standard of rivals
  • • Potential for issues with complex systems like air suspension (Airmatic)
  • • Steering can feel a bit numb, lacking direct feedback

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(W164, facelift 2008: May, 2009 - February, 2010).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:M-class
Generation:W166
Modification (Engine):ML 350 BlueTEC (258 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC
Start of production:November, 2011
End of production:July, 2015
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:SUV
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Engine systems:Particulate filter
Power:258 Hp @ 3600 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:86.4 Hp/l [23mm more]
Torque:620 Nm @ 1600-2400 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:OM 642 LS DE 30 LA / 642.826 More details about the engine OM 642 LS DE 30 LA / 642.826
Engine displacement:2987
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:V-engine
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Engine oil capacity:8 l
Coolant:11.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Compression ratio:15.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:8.4-7.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:6.8-6.3 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:7.4-6.8 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 6
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7.4 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7.4 sec
Maximum speed:224 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:8.4 kg/Hp, 118.6 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:3.5 kg/Nm, 285.1 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:7 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:2175
Max. weight:2950
Max load:775
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:2010 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:690 l
Fuel tank capacity:70 l
Size:
Length:4804 mm mm [23mm more]
Width:1926 mm mm [15mm more]
Height:1796 mm mm [19mm less]
Wheelbase:2915 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1648 mm
Rear (Back) track:1663 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):11.8 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears7
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeG-TRONIC PLUS
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size235/65 R17
Wheel rims size17
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension

Behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz M-class. How does it handle on the road?