The Mercedes-Benz ML Class, now known as the GLE, holds a significant place in the history of luxury SUVs. Initially bearing the “ML” designation due to trademark considerations, this mid-size SUV has evolved through several generations, each bringing advancements in technology, design, and performance. Let’s delve into the lineage of the Ml Class Mercedes-Benz, tracing its journey from the pioneering W163 to the sophisticated W166, before it transitioned into the GLE.
Mercedes-Benz ML Class: A Generational Overview
The story of the ML Class begins with the W163 generation (1998-2005). This first iteration marked Mercedes-Benz’s foray into the burgeoning SUV market. Interestingly, before its market launch as a 1998 model, the W163 gained early fame with a feature in the movie Jurassic Park. Built in the US, the W163 utilized a body-on-frame construction, a traditional approach for SUVs at the time.
A significant step forward came with the W164 generation (2006-2011). Mercedes-Benz listened to feedback and addressed quality concerns of the first generation with a complete redesign. The W164 shifted to a unibody construction, enhancing ride quality and handling. This generation also saw advancements in engine technology and introduced more powerful and efficient options.
The W166 generation (2012-2015) represented the final chapter under the ML Class nameplate. Launched in 2011, this generation continued the refinement process, offering a range of powerful engines and advanced features. Mid-cycle in 2015, the ML Class was rebranded as the GLE-Class, aligning with Mercedes-Benz’s new naming convention for its SUV lineup.
Delving into the W166 ML Class (2012-2015)
The W166 generation of the ML Class Mercedes-Benz brought significant enhancements in performance and engine options. Customers could choose from a variety of powertrains, including a robust 302-horsepower 3.5L V6 gasoline engine, an efficient 240-horsepower 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel, a potent 402-horsepower twin-turbo 4.7L V8, and for ultimate performance, a blistering 518-horsepower twin-turbo 5.5L V8 in the ML63 AMG variant (with an optional Performance package boosting it to 550 hp). All models in this generation were equipped with a smooth and responsive seven-speed automatic transmission.
| Engine Options for W166 ML Class | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 3.5L V6 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| 2.1L Twin-Turbo Inline-4 Diesel | 7-Speed Automatic | All-Wheel Drive |
| 3.0L Turbo V6 Diesel | 7-Speed Automatic | All-Wheel Drive |
| 4.6L Turbo V8 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | All-Wheel Drive |
| 4.6L V8 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | All-Wheel Drive |
| 4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | All-Wheel Drive |
| 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | All-Wheel Drive |
Alt Text: Detailed table of W166 ML Class trims, engine types including V6 and V8 gasoline and diesel options, 7-speed automatic transmission, and drivetrain choices like RWD and AWD.
The W166 ML Class offered a range of trims to cater to different needs and preferences:
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| W166 ML 350 RWD | 3.5L V6 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| W166 ML 350 4MATIC | 3.5L V6 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| W166 ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC | 2.1L Twin-Turbo Inline-4 Diesel | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| W166 ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC | 3.0L Turbo V6 Diesel | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| W166 ML 550 4MATIC | 4.6L Turbo V8 Gas / 4.7L Twin-Turbo V8 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
| W166 ML 400 4MATIC | 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | AWD |
The Refined W164 Facelift ML Class (2009-2011)
The facelifted W164 ML Class (2009-2011) brought cosmetic updates and engine refinements to the second generation. While the changes were primarily aesthetic, Mercedes-Benz also upgraded the diesel engine to a more efficient and cleaner version with 210 horsepower.
| Engine Options for W164 Facelift ML Class | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 3.5L V6 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| 3.0L Turbo V6 Diesel | 7-Speed Automatic | Four-Wheel Drive |
| 5.5L V8 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | All-Wheel Drive |
Alt Text: Table outlining engine specifications for the W164 Facelift ML Class, including 3.5L V6 gasoline, 3.0L Turbo V6 Diesel, and 5.5L V8 gasoline engines paired with 7-speed automatic transmission and drivetrain options like Rear-Wheel Drive, Four-Wheel Drive, and All-Wheel Drive.
Trim levels for the W164 Facelift ML Class included:
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| W164 ML 350 RWD | 3.5L V6 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| W164 ML 350 4MATIC | 3.5L V6 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | 4X4 AWD |
| W164 ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC | 3.0L Turbo V6 Diesel | 7-Speed Automatic | 4X4 AWD |
| W164 ML 550 4MATIC | 5.5L V8 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | 4X4 AWD |
The Original W164 ML Class (2006-2008)
The initial W164 ML Class (2006-2008) marked a significant departure from its predecessor with its unibody construction. At launch, engine options included a 268-horsepower 3.5L V6 and a 302-horsepower 5.0L V8, both coupled with a seven-speed automatic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive. Later, Mercedes-Benz expanded the engine lineup with a 215-horsepower 3.0L turbo-diesel V6 and a high-performance 503-horsepower 6.2L V8 for the ML63 AMG. The 5.0L V8 was eventually replaced by a more powerful 382-horsepower 5.5L V8.
| Engine Options for Original W164 ML Class | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 3.5L V6 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | Four-Wheel Drive |
| 3.0L V6 Diesel | 7-Speed Automatic | Four-Wheel Drive |
| 5.5L V8 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | Four-Wheel Drive |
Alt Text: Specification table detailing engine choices for the original W164 ML Class models, featuring 3.5L V6 gasoline, 3.0L V6 diesel, and 5.5L V8 gasoline engines, all paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission and Four-Wheel Drive system.
The trim levels for the original W164 ML Class generation were:
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| W164 ML 350 4MATIC | 3.5L V6 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | 4X4 |
| W164 ML 320 CDI 4MATIC | 3.0L V6 Diesel | 7-Speed Automatic | 4X4 |
| W164 ML 500 4MATIC | 5.5L V8 Gas | 7-Speed Automatic | 4X4 |
The W163 Facelift and Original ML Class (2002-2005 & 1998-2001)
The original W163 ML Class (1998-2001) and its facelifted version (2002-2005) represent the foundation of the ML Class lineage. These models established Mercedes-Benz in the luxury SUV segment, paving the way for future generations. While detailed specifications for these generations are available, this overview focuses on the later, more refined models.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the ML Class Mercedes-Benz
From its body-on-frame beginnings to the sophisticated unibody designs, the ML Class Mercedes-Benz has consistently evolved, setting benchmarks in the luxury SUV category. Understanding the different generations – W163, W164, and W166 – provides valuable insight into the development of this iconic vehicle and its eventual transformation into the GLE. For those seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and capability, exploring the ML Class generations offers a journey through automotive innovation.
