1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320 W163

• The 1999 ML320 W163 helped kick off the luxury SUV boom.

• Its off-road chops were more than just for show.

• Early quality hiccups didn’t stop it from leaving a legacy.

A Different Kind of Mercedes

Back in 1999, Mercedes wasn’t exactly known for trucks. Then the ML320 showed up. Boxy, tall, and a little rugged around the edges—but still wore the three-pointed star with confidence. This was Mercedes’ first modern SUV, and it didn’t try to hide its intent.

Big plastic bumpers, pronounced fenders, real ride height. It looked ready for a trail—or a Whole Foods parking lot. And that was the point. It felt utilitarian, but not basic. The upright proportions made it look planted and purposeful, while softer curves kept it from going full military.

Muscle Where It Mattered

Power came from a 3.2-liter V6 putting out 215 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque. Decent numbers for the era, especially for an SUV tipping the scales around 2 tons. It wasn't quick by today’s standards—0 to 60 mph in about 9 seconds—but it got the job done.

Paired with a 5-speed automatic and Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, the ML320 had real dirt-road credentials. Body-on-frame competitors felt trucky. The ML, on the other hand, was a bit more refined, even if still a bit raw in spots.

Cabin Comfort, With a Few Trade-Offs

Inside, the ML320 gave off a solid mix of SUV pragmatism and Mercedes comfort. It seated five, had a commanding view of the road, and offered real cargo space—more than some rivals.

Materials were fine, if not flashy. Soft-touch plastics, real wood in some trims, and a few early signs of the luxury-SUV era to come. Climate control and a decent sound system came standard, though build quality in early models didn’t quite live up to the badge. Owners noticed. So did reviewers.

Competitive Terrain

The ML320 dropped right into a hot segment. BMW would bring out the X5 shortly after. Lexus was gaining steam with the RX. But unlike those rivals, Mercedes aimed the ML more toward all-terrain credibility. It didn’t mind getting muddy—literally.

And while the ride could be a bit stiff, and the steering a touch vague, it offered something others didn’t at the time: a proper SUV with actual Mercedes-Benz luxury.

Final Thoughts

The 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320 W163 wasn’t perfect. But it didn’t have to be. It arrived just as people were realizing they wanted their daily driver to do more—carry more, haul more, explore more.

It wasn’t just another tall wagon. It was a statement that Mercedes could build an SUV that was both functional and aspirational. And it set the tone for just about every luxury SUV that followed.

Technical Specifications: 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML320 W163

Performance:

• Engine: 3.2L V6 (M112)

• Power Output: 215 hp (160 kW) @ 5,500 rpm

• Torque: 233 lb-ft (316 Nm) @ 3,000 rpm

• Acceleration (0–60 mph): Approximately 9.0 seconds

• Top Speed: 121 mph (195 km/h)

• Fuel Economy (EPA): 15 mpg city / 19 mpg highway / 17 mpg combined

• Fuel Type: Regular unleaded

• Drive Type: All-wheel drive (4MATIC)

• Transmission: 5-speed automatic

Body Measurements:

• Length: 4,587 mm (180.6 in)

• Width: 1,833 mm (72.2 in)

• Height: 1,776 mm (69.9 in)

• Wheelbase: 2,819 mm (111.0 in)

• Ground Clearance: 213 mm (8.4 in)

• Turning Circle: 11.3 m (37.0 ft)

• Curb Weight: 1,990 kg (4,387 lbs)

• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 2,724 kg (6,005 lbs)

Powertrain:

• Engine Type: Naturally aspirated V6

• Engine Code: M112

• Displacement: 3,199 cc

• Fuel System: Multi-point fuel injection

• Valvetrain: SOHC, 3 valves per cylinder

• Drivetrain: Permanent all-wheel drive (4MATIC)

• Transmission: 5-speed automatic

Capacities:

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 72 liters (19.0 US gallons)

• Seating Capacity: 5 passengers

• Cargo Volume (All Seats in Place): 1,265 liters (44.7 cu.ft.)

• Maximum Towing Capacity: 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs)

Price:

• Original MSRP (1999): Approximately $43,750 USD

• Current Market Value (Used): Ranges from $5,500 to $9,291 USD, depending on condition and mileage

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