Despite consistent sales growth, Mercedes-Benz identified a significant gap in their vehicle lineup that had persisted since 1993. This was the last year they offered any all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicle. The discontinuation of their 4Matic sedans and wagons for the 1994 model year left them exposed to competition from brands like Audi, Subaru, and Volvo in the burgeoning AWD market. Recognizing this vulnerability, Mercedes-Benz not only reintroduced AWD to their E-Class sedans and wagons but also ventured further by developing a dedicated sport utility vehicle, the 1998 Mercedes Suv ML320.
Unlike many luxury off-road vehicles of the time, the 1998 Mercedes SUV, known as the ML320, was not an adaptation of an existing SUV, nor was it built upon a car platform. Instead, Mercedes-Benz engineered the ML320 from the ground up as a unique vehicle. Their aim was to create a true Mercedes SUV that could confidently handle off-road terrains and adverse weather conditions, all while upholding the brand’s renowned standards of luxury, safety, and performance that their discerning clientele expected. This fresh approach set the 1998 Mercedes SUV apart in a competitive market.
The 1998 Mercedes SUV ML320 ingeniously blended technologies traditionally found in cars and trucks. For example, Mercedes-Benz opted for a robust separate frame for this vehicle. This boxed frame design provided the ML320 with exceptional torsional rigidity, a crucial attribute for demanding off-road driving situations. Complementing this truck-like frame was a pioneering feature for SUVs: a four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension system. This marked the first time double-wishbone suspension technology was applied to all four wheels of a truck-based vehicle. The result was an exceptional on-road driving experience, allowing this tall and capable SUV to navigate slalom courses with agility comparable to the E320 sedan. This innovative suspension was a key factor in the 1998 Mercedes SUV’s appeal.
Stepping inside the 1998 Mercedes SUV ML320, occupants were greeted with the familiar hallmarks of a Mercedes-Benz vehicle. The interior materials were of high quality, with the exception of the dashboard plastic. The seats were designed for comfort, even on long journeys. Practicality was also considered, with ample cupholders for both front and rear passengers. The audio system delivered excellent sound quality, and importantly, the secondary controls were designed with user-friendliness in mind, avoiding the confusing icons that had sometimes been present in previous Mercedes-Benz models. This attention to detail in the cabin enhanced the overall luxury feel of the 1998 Mercedes SUV.
Mercedes-Benz strategically priced the 1998 Mercedes SUV ML320 aggressively, positioning it as the second most affordable vehicle in their entire lineup at the time. When compared to competitors such as the Ford Explorer Limited and the Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, the ML320 emerged as the superior vehicle in almost every aspect, with the exception of the most extreme off-road challenges. On paved roads, the American contenders simply could not match the driving dynamics and refinement of this German-engineered trailblazer. For anyone considering a four-wheel-drive vehicle in the luxury segment, overlooking the 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML320 would be a significant oversight. This 1998 Mercedes SUV was a compelling offering in the market.
