The Mercedes-Benz M-Class, since its debut, has been consistently refined by Mercedes, showcasing enhanced features, performance upgrades, and improved aesthetics, while also addressing initial build quality concerns. The 2001 Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup continued this trend, offering a compelling option in the luxury SUV market.
For the 2001 model year, the base ML320 was equipped with a lively 215-horsepower 3.2-liter V6 engine, providing ample power for daily driving and beyond. Stepping up, the ML430 boasted a robust and sophisticated 4.3-liter V8 engine, delivering 268 horsepower for those seeking more assertive performance. At the top of the range, the AMG-engineered ML55 truly stood out, unleashing 342 horsepower from its potent 5.5-liter V8. All engine variants were paired with a driver-adaptive five-speed automatic transmission featuring TouchShift control, allowing for manual gear changes when desired.
Alt text: Powerful V8 engine of a 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG SUV, showcasing performance engineering.
A significant enhancement for this model year was the introduction of an advanced full-time four-wheel-drive system. This system provided a balanced 50/50 torque distribution to both the front and rear axles through the M-Class’s fully independent suspension. Further bolstering its capability, a new downhill traction control system was incorporated, mirroring the functionality of BMW’s Hill Descent Control found in their X5 SUV. This system maintained a controlled low speed when descending steep slopes with loose surfaces. Complementing this, a new “two-foot” crawling mode was added, simulating the effect of brake application while ascending steep inclines. This mode engaged in low range at speeds under 3 mph, maximizing traction in challenging situations. Contributing to these off-road improvements, an active brake booster increased pressure assistance more rapidly, enabling quicker response in slowing spinning wheels.
Alt text: 2001 Mercedes-Benz M-Class SUV demonstrating off-road capability with four-wheel-drive system.
Safety remained a paramount concern, and the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SUV M-Class was equipped with features comparable to Mercedes’ premium sedans. These included TeleAid emergency system, traction control, stability control, anti-lock brakes (ABS), dual-stage “smart” airbags, and 24-hour roadside assistance. Notably, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recognized the M-Class as a “Best Pick” in the SUV category for occupant protection, underscoring its crashworthiness.
However, the appeal of this 2001 Mercedes-Benz SUV extended beyond just safety. The base ML320’s interior offered luxurious touches like leather upholstery and burl walnut trim. The ML430 further elevated the experience with standard GPS navigation, larger 17-inch wheels, and leather seating. For both models, a third-row seat was available, increasing passenger capacity. A new sport package was also introduced to inject a more dynamic aesthetic, featuring unique body cladding, integrated fog lamps, a chrome exhaust tip, and 17-inch alloy wheels, aiming to reduce the perceived “minivan” appearance. For those desiring even more sportiness, the ML55 AMG delivered with its powerful V8 engine, substantial 18-inch wheels, a distinctive power dome hood, and eye-catching red brake calipers.
Alt text: Luxurious interior of a 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML320 SUV, showcasing leather and burl walnut trim.
Combining these safety attributes with robust on-road and capable “slippery stuff” performance, coupled with a generous 80.2 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity and a comprehensive list of standard features, the 2001 Mercedes-Benz SUV M-Class presented a compelling package as a luxury sport-utility vehicle. Despite the drivetrain enhancements for 2001, it’s worth noting that serious off-road enthusiasts might seek vehicles more specialized for extreme terrain. The M-Class, while possessing a boxed frame and four-wheel drive, was ultimately more at home on highways and paved roads than navigating challenging off-road trails.
