Mercedes-Benz, a name synonymous with luxury and automotive innovation, identified a gap in their vehicle lineup in the early 1990s. By 1993, they had ceased offering all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicles, leaving them behind competitors like Audi, Subaru, and Volvo in a growing market segment. Recognizing this, Mercedes strategically reintroduced AWD to their E-Class sedans and wagons. This pivotal move was followed by the introduction of the 1999 Mercedes Ml320 Suv, marking Mercedes-Benz’s entry into the burgeoning sport-utility vehicle market and setting a new standard for luxury SUVs.
The 1999 Mercedes ML320 SUV was not merely an adaptation of an existing model; it was engineered from the ground up as a distinct Mercedes-Benz vehicle. The aim was clear: to deliver a vehicle capable of handling diverse terrains and challenging weather conditions without compromising the luxury, safety, and performance that Mercedes-Benz clientele expected. For the 1999 model year, the ML320 received notable upgrades, including the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist, BabySmart child safety seat recognition, and the convenience of a Homelink programmable garage door opener, all becoming standard features. Remarkably, these enhancements came with only a modest $1,000 increase in the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), making the 1999 Mercedes ML320 SUV an even more compelling value proposition.
Expanding on the foundation of the ML320, Mercedes-Benz also introduced the ML430. For an additional $10,000, the ML430 elevated the M-Class experience, providing occupants with a more refined and opulent interior, coupled with the robust performance of a V8 engine. Beyond the standard features of the ML320, the 1999 Mercedes ML430 boasted leather-trimmed seating, elegant burl walnut interior accents, heated eight-way power-adjustable seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a lockable safety box, a practical trip computer, and privacy glass. The exterior of the ML430 was also distinct, featuring body-colored bumpers, rocker panels, rub strips, and rearview mirror housings, along with wider 275/55R17 tires mounted on stylish seven-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels.
These M-Class SUVs ingeniously blended technologies traditionally found in either cars or trucks. Utilizing a robust frame boxed at both ends, the 1999 Mercedes ML320 SUV achieved torsional rigidity essential for demanding off-road situations. Paired with this truck-like frame was a sophisticated four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension system. This combination resulted in exceptional on-road ride quality, enabling the ML320 to navigate slalom courses with agility comparable to the E320 sedan. While the off-road capability was certainly competent, it was positioned more for adventurous on-road driving and light off-road use rather than extreme terrain conquering, where vehicles like the Land Rover Discovery might hold an edge.
The interior of the 1999 Mercedes ML320 SUV exemplified the premium quality expected from the Mercedes-Benz marque. The cabin materials were generally high-grade, with the exception of the dashboard plastic. The seats were designed for long-distance comfort, and practical cupholders were available for both front and rear passengers. The audio system delivered excellent sound quality, and the often-criticized confusing controls of previous Mercedes-Benz models were replaced with more intuitive secondary controls.
When compared to American SUVs such as the GMC Yukon Denali and the Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, the 1999 Mercedes ML320 SUV emerged as a superior choice for most driving scenarios, excluding perhaps the most extreme off-road challenges. On paved roads, the M-Class surpassed its American counterparts in ride quality and handling. For those considering a foray into the four-wheel-drive vehicle segment, overlooking the 1999 Mercedes-Benz M-Class, particularly the versatile ML320 SUV, would be a significant oversight. The 1999 Mercedes ML320 SUV successfully bridged the gap between luxury and utility, establishing itself as a noteworthy contender in the SUV market.
