The 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class is a mid-size luxury SUV that combines utility and comfort to make the perfect every day vehicle. It can handle almost any terrain with its all-wheel drive model. Drivers and passengers will experience a quiet and comfortable ride no matter what the weather outside is like.
Key Features
The M-Class ML350, which is the standard model, comes with a 3.5 liter V6 engine that offers 302 hp at 6,500 rpm. The fuel economy is estimated at 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. A seven speed automatic transmission, power lift gate, power sunroof, dual climate control, and eight way heated front seats come standard on this vehicle.
Changes for 2012
For 2012, the M-Class received a sleeker design and a bigger exterior. Inside the vehicle, the interior was upgraded along with its technology features. The V6 and V8 engines are more powerful for 2012, yet more fuel efficient than past models.
What We Like
The power tailgate is a great feature, especially when your hands are full of kids or groceries. With just the push of a button, the gate opens and closes. Another nice feature is the folding rear seats that make extra room for cargo.
What Concerns Us
The Mercedes-Benz M-Class seats five people, so if you need something bigger you may need to look at the Audi Q7, Infiniti JX, or the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. The steering is a little light at low speeds and overall not very communicative.
Available Models
The ML550 comes with a 4.6 liter twin turbocharged V8 with 402 hp with a fuel economy of 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. The ML63 is a little bigger with a 5.5 liter V8 with 518 hp at 5,250 rpm. It offers a fuel economy of 14 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway.
Major Recalls
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class was recalled due to the accessory floor mats may get stuck to the gas pedal due to the fact that they do not conform to the contour of the vehicle.
Common Issues
Consumer complaints include the service is expensive, problems with driver’s seat, bad gas mileage, malfunctioning command system, stalls, Bluetooth malfunction, no front windshield heater, lack of legroom in the back, electronic defects, voice navigation not working properly, losing power, and the backup camera is hard to see through.
