For years, Mercedes-Benz stood as a beacon of automotive luxury and innovation, yet a segment remained untouched by their iconic three-pointed star for a period. From 1993, Mercedes lacked an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) offering in their lineup, creating an opening for competitors like Audi, Subaru, and Volvo to capture the AWD market. Recognizing this gap, Mercedes strategically reintroduced AWD to their E-Class sedans and wagons, and in 1997, they boldly entered the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) arena with the Mercedes-Benz ML320. This move marked not just an expansion of their product line, but a statement of intent to dominate every facet of the luxury automotive landscape.
Stepping into the SUV Era: The 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320 SUV was meticulously engineered from the ground up to be a true Mercedes, designed to confidently navigate diverse terrains and challenging weather conditions without compromising the hallmark luxury, safety, and performance expected by Mercedes-Benz aficionados. This wasn’t merely an adaptation of an existing platform; the ML320 was a deliberate and dedicated foray into the burgeoning SUV market. For the 1999 model year, Mercedes further enhanced the ML320 by incorporating Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist, BabySmart child seat recognition system, and the Homelink programmable garage door opener as standard features. Remarkably, these significant upgrades were introduced with only a modest $1,000 increase in the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), demonstrating Mercedes’ commitment to value alongside innovation.
1999 ML320: Features and Refinements
The 1999 ML320 came packed with features designed for both comfort and safety. The inclusion of ESP was a significant step forward in vehicle dynamics, helping drivers maintain control in challenging situations. Brake Assist was another critical safety feature, designed to apply maximum braking force in emergency situations, potentially reducing stopping distances. BabySmart technology underscored Mercedes’ commitment to family safety, while the Homelink system added a touch of modern convenience. These standard features elevated the 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320 beyond its base model status, making it a compelling offering in the luxury SUV segment.
ML320 vs. ML430: A Choice of Power and Luxury
For those seeking even more refinement and power, Mercedes-Benz also offered the ML430. Positioned as the premium variant, the ML430 built upon the solid foundation of the ML320, adding a more sophisticated interior ambiance and enhanced performance courtesy of a V8 engine. While the 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320 provided a robust and capable driving experience, the ML430 elevated the luxury quotient with standard leather-trimmed seating, elegant burl walnut interior trim, heated eight-way power seats for optimal comfort, an automatic dimming rearview mirror, a lockable safety box for added security, a trip computer for enhanced driver information, and privacy glass. The exterior of the ML430 also distinguished itself with body-colored bumpers, rocker panels, rub strips, and rearview mirror housings, along with wider 275/55R17 tires mounted on distinctive seven-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels. This expanded offering allowed buyers to choose between the well-rounded ML320 and the more opulent and powerful ML430, catering to a broader spectrum of preferences within the luxury SUV market.
Engineering Excellence: On and Off-Road Performance of the ML320
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320 ingeniously blended technologies from both car and truck engineering philosophies. Utilizing a robust frame boxed at both ends, the M-Class achieved a level of torsional rigidity typically associated with serious off-road vehicles. This truck-like frame was then paired with a sophisticated four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension system, a design more commonly found in passenger cars. The result was a remarkable on-road ride quality that allowed the ML320 to handle with surprising agility, even matching the slalom performance of the E320 sedan. While off-road capability was certainly competent and more than sufficient for most drivers, it was acknowledged that tackling extreme off-road challenges might reveal limitations when compared to specialized vehicles like the Land Rover Discovery. However, for the vast majority of drivers, the 1999 ML320 offered an exceptional balance of on-road comfort and off-road preparedness.
Interior Comfort and Design of the 1999 ML320
Stepping inside the 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320 was an experience consistent with the brand’s reputation for luxury and quality. The interior materials, with the exception of the dashboard plastic, were noted to be of a high standard. The seats were designed for long-distance comfort, making the ML320 an excellent choice for road trips. Practicality was also considered, with multiple cupholders provided for both front and rear passengers. The audio system delivered impressive sound quality, and importantly, the secondary controls were praised for their user-friendliness, a welcome departure from the sometimes confusing interfaces found in previous Mercedes-Benz models. This focus on intuitive design and quality materials contributed to a pleasant and comfortable driving environment within the 1999 ML320.
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320 in the Competitive Landscape
When placed against competitors such as the GMC Yukon Denali and Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited, the Mercedes-Benz ML320 emerged as a superior choice for the majority of driving scenarios. While American SUVs might cater to the most extreme off-road demands, the 1999 ML320 excelled in on-road refinement, handling, and overall luxury. The review highlighted that in on-road driving dynamics, these American contenders simply could not match the Mercedes-Benz ML320. For buyers whose vehicle needs leaned towards four-wheel drive capability without sacrificing on-road comfort and luxury, overlooking the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, and specifically the 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320, would be a significant oversight. The ML320 presented a compelling package that solidified Mercedes-Benz’s position in the luxury SUV market, offering a blend of capability, comfort, and prestige that resonated with discerning buyers.
