Mercedes-Benz first entered the luxury SUV market with the ML-Class nearly a decade prior, and the 2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class represents the second generation of this esteemed model, now simply known as the M-Class. This iteration marks a significant evolution from its truck-based, body-on-frame origins to a more car-like and user-friendly utility vehicle. Years of refinements in suspension, enhanced safety features, and upgraded equipment culminate in the freshly updated 2009 M-Class, arriving at a pivotal moment when larger SUVs are facing increased scrutiny due to fuel consumption concerns.
Stepping inside the 2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class, drivers are greeted by a revised version of the Mercedes COMAND interface, designed for improved ease of use. This system now incorporates Bluetooth phone connectivity, an auxiliary input jack, and a convenient in-dash six-CD/DVD changer. For those seeking the latest in automotive technology, an optional, enhanced COMAND system elevates the experience with voice-activated, hard-drive-based navigation, boasting 4GB of music storage, satellite and HD radio capabilities, Zagat restaurant reviews, and seamless iPod integration. This focus on user-friendly technology underscores the M-Class’s commitment to modern driver needs.
For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency, the introduction of the new ML320 Bluetec model is a noteworthy development in the 2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class lineup. Succeeding the ML320 CDI from the previous year, the Bluetec features a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine that utilizes a specialized additive to achieve cleaner combustion than previous diesel iterations. This Bluetec engine is compliant with emissions standards in all 50 states, a distinction the CDI model did not hold. Furthermore, the ML320 Bluetec boasts a 17 percent improvement in fuel economy compared to the EPA ratings of the standard ML350. While the Bluetec model may offer slightly less robust highway passing power and carries a $1,500 price premium, it presents a compelling and efficient alternative to the conventional ML350 engine.
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class continues to embody the core attributes synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz brand: exceptional quality, luxurious appointments, prestigious appeal, and cutting-edge safety engineering. While the luxury midsize SUV segment, priced around $50,000, offers a range of compelling alternatives – including recently updated models like the Acura MDX, Audi Q7, BMW X5, Lexus RX 350, Porsche Cayenne, and Volkswagen Touareg 2 – the M-Class holds its own. Notably, unlike some competitors, the M-Class does not offer a third-row seating option, focusing instead on providing spacious comfort for five passengers. Opting for numerous available features can elevate the M-Class’s price point considerably. However, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class remains a strong contender for those seeking a technologically advanced, comfortable, and luxurious five-passenger midsize SUV.
