Which current series is the Mercedes-Benz ML equivalent to?
3 Answers
Mercedes-Benz ML is a mid-to-large-size SUV in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. Below are relevant details about the Mercedes-Benz ML: 1. Introduction: The ML series places greater emphasis on luxury and comfort, or more specifically, urban driving experience. The primary competitors of the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class are the BMW X5 and Lexus GX. While its rivals excel in sporty styling, the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class focuses on delivering superior comfort. The interior features carefully selected materials and is richly equipped. The powertrain options for the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class available in the domestic market include 3.0L V6, 3.5L V6, 5.5L V8, and 5.5T V8 versions. 2. Interior: The Mercedes-Benz ML ensures optimal comfort during driving with its spacious cabin, clearly arranged controls, and use of high-quality materials. Once seated in the ARTICO man-made leather and poplin fabric upholstered seats, your attention will be immediately drawn to the exquisite wood trims. The multifunction steering wheel provides access to useful vehicle data, phone operation, and even gear shifting via the paddle shifters. Additionally, there is a gearshift lever on the steering column, and the center console includes an extra storage compartment. The memory function in the ML-Class SUV automatically adjusts the seats and headrests to your previously set positions.
I remember chatting with a friend about old Mercedes-Benz SUVs last time, and he asked the same question. The Mercedes ML series is actually the predecessor of the current GLE. The first-generation ML, launched in 1997, pioneered the luxury urban SUV segment. By the third generation in 2015, it was officially renamed the GLE-Class, with the chassis code changing from W164 to W166. Nowadays, when you see a Mercedes SUV on the street with the letters GLE, it's a descendant of the former ML family. The current GLE has even branched out into derivative models like the GLE Coupe, which features a more sporty, fastback design. The biggest difference after the redesign is the adoption of a dual-screen interior and the addition of a 48V mild hybrid system. However, longtime ML owners often say that while the new models feel more high-tech, the mechanical throttle response of the older models was more direct.
Just talked about this last week when accompanying relatives to look at used cars. The classic Mercedes-Benz ML series, after three generations of updates, officially adopted the unified naming convention of GLE in 2015. Specifically, the new name was introduced starting with the W166 chassis code generation. Nowadays, the GLE not only inherits the ML's design language but also expands to include personalized versions like the GLE Coupe. The technological upgrades are quite noticeable—the new architecture improves torsional rigidity, and the 9AT transmission is smoother than the old 7AT. The China-specific version even features a lengthened wheelbase, offering much more rear legroom compared to our 2008 ML. The leap in active safety features is significant, with standard adaptive cruise control that was only available as a top-tier option on the old ML. However, the robust sound of the V6 engine has been faithfully preserved.
