The Mercedes-Benz M-Class ML350 4MATIC, produced from 2003 to 2005, represents a mid-cycle refresh of the first-generation (W163) M-Class SUV. Introduced in 1997, the W163 was Mercedes-Benz’s first foray into the burgeoning luxury SUV segment, aiming to compete with vehicles like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and BMW X5. The 2001 facelift brought revised styling, improved interior materials, and updated engine options, including the ML350 variant powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. This configuration positioned the ML350 as a strong contender in the mid-range of the M-Class lineup, offering a balance of performance, luxury, and capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M-Class |
| Generation | M-Class (W163, facelift 2001) |
| Type (Engine) | ML 350 V6 (235 Hp) 4MATIC 5G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17.7 l/100 km (13.3 US mpg, 16 UK mpg, 5.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.7 l/100 km (18.5 US mpg, 22.2 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 305 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 163.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 235 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Torque | 345 Nm @ 3000-4500 rpm (254.46 lb.-ft. @ 3000-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 112.971 |
| Engine displacement | 3724 cm3 (227.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2870 kg (6327.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 760 kg (1675.51 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 633 l (22.35 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2020 l (71.34 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83 l (21.93 US gal | 18.26 UK gal) |
| Length | 4638 mm (182.6 in.) |
| Width | 1840 mm (72.44 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2126 mm (83.7 in.) |
| Height | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2820 mm (111.02 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Front overhang | 874 mm (34.41 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 944 mm (37.17 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.39 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). Internal Combustion engine. |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 275/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The ML350’s engine, designated M112.971, is a 3.7-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine is part of Mercedes-Benz’s M112 engine family, known for its smooth operation and relatively high output for its displacement. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design per cylinder bank, three valves per cylinder (two intake, one exhaust), and multi-port fuel injection. The engine produces 235 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 345 Nm (254 lb-ft) of torque between 3000 and 4500 rpm. The five-speed 5G-TRONIC automatic transmission was standard, offering smooth shifts but lacking the responsiveness of a manual gearbox. This transmission was designed for comfort and efficiency rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The ML350 4MATIC offered a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not a sports SUV, the 3.7-liter V6 provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 8.6 seconds, which was respectable for the time but slower than the supercharged ML55 AMG. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and smooth transitions, sometimes resulting in a slight delay in response during quick acceleration. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in various weather conditions, making it a suitable vehicle for those living in areas with inclement weather. The ride quality was generally comfortable, thanks to the double wishbone suspension on both the front and rear axles.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The ML350 typically came standard with features such as leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, heated seats, and upgraded audio options. The interior design was typical of Mercedes-Benz at the time, emphasizing luxury and comfort. The ML350’s trim level sat between the base ML320 and the high-performance ML55 AMG, offering a balance of features and price.
Chassis & Braking
The W163 M-Class featured a robust body-on-frame construction, providing a solid and durable platform. The suspension consisted of double wishbones at both the front and rear, with a transverse stabilizer bar to reduce body roll. The ML350 was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, providing a reasonably direct and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The ML350 was generally well-received by automotive critics as a capable and comfortable luxury SUV. It offered a good balance of performance, features, and price, making it a popular choice among buyers. Compared to the ML320, the ML350 offered more power and slightly quicker acceleration. However, it was less fuel-efficient and more expensive. The ML55 AMG, with its supercharged V8 engine, provided significantly more performance but came at a substantial price premium. Fuel economy was a common criticism, averaging around 18.5 US mpg in combined driving, which was typical for a vehicle of its size and class at the time.
Legacy
The M112 engine family, including the M112.971 found in the ML350, is generally considered reliable, although preventative maintenance is crucial. Common issues include oil leaks, particularly around the valve cover gaskets, and occasional problems with the electronic throttle body. The 5G-TRONIC transmission is also generally reliable but can be susceptible to issues if not properly maintained. Today, well-maintained W163 ML350s can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. They appeal to enthusiasts seeking a classic Mercedes-Benz SUV with a comfortable ride and a capable all-wheel-drive system. While not as technologically advanced as modern SUVs, the W163 ML350 remains a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s early efforts in the luxury SUV segment.
