The Mercedes-Benz M-Class marked a significant entry into the luxury SUV market, and the 2001 model year saw considerable refinements to this popular vehicle, particularly the base model 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML320. Since its initial launch, Mercedes-Benz consistently improved the M-Class, enhancing its features, boosting performance, refining its aesthetics, and resolving early build quality concerns.
Under the hood of the 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML320 lies a spirited 3.2-liter V6 engine. This powerplant delivers a responsive 215 horsepower, providing ample performance for daily driving and highway cruising. For those seeking even more power, the upscale ML430 offered a robust 4.3-liter V8, generating 268 horsepower. At the top of the range, the AMG-engineered ML55 boasted a formidable 342 horsepower from its enhanced 5.5-liter V8. Across the engine lineup, all models came equipped with a driver-adaptive five-speed automatic transmission featuring TouchShift control, allowing for manual gear selection.
A notable upgrade for the 2001 model year was the introduction of an enhanced full-time four-wheel-drive system. This system provides a balanced 50/50 torque distribution to both the front and rear axles through the M-Class’s fully independent suspension. Further enhancing its capability, a new downhill traction control system, reminiscent of BMW’s Hill Descent Control in the X5, was incorporated. This system automatically regulates vehicle speed when descending steep slopes with loose surfaces. Complementing this was a new “two-foot” crawling mode, designed to mimic the effect of applying the brakes while ascending a steep incline at low speeds. This mode, activated in low range and below 3 mph, maximizes traction in challenging situations. To further improve off-road responsiveness, an active brake booster was implemented to build pressure assistance more rapidly, enabling quicker response in slowing spinning wheels.
Beyond its advanced drivetrain technology, the 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML320 prioritized safety. Features such as TeleAid emergency calling system, traction control, stability control, anti-lock brakes (ABS), dual-stage “smart” airbags, and 24-hour roadside assistance provided a safety level comparable to Mercedes-Benz’s renowned sedans. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) even recognized the M-Class as a “Best Pick” in the SUV category for occupant protection, highlighting its exceptional crashworthiness.
However, the appeal of the 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML320 extended beyond just safety. The interior of the base model ML320 offered a touch of luxury with leather upholstery and burl walnut trim accents. Stepping up to the ML430 added standard GPS navigation, 17-inch wheels, and leather seats. For increased passenger capacity, a third-row seat was available as an option in both models. To inject a sportier aesthetic, a new sport package was offered, featuring unique body cladding, integrated fog lamps, a chrome exhaust tip, and 17-inch alloy wheels, aiming to lessen the M-Class’s somewhat minivan-like appearance. For those desiring true high-performance SUV experience, the ML55 AMG delivered with its potent V8 engine, larger 18-inch wheels, a distinctive power dome hood, and red brake calipers.
Combining these safety attributes with its confident performance on both paved roads and in less-than-ideal conditions, along with a generous 80.2 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity and a comprehensive list of standard features, the 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML320 presented a compelling package as a luxury sport utility vehicle. Despite the drivetrain enhancements for 2001, it’s important to note that serious off-road enthusiasts might seek vehicles more specifically engineered for extreme terrain. The M-Class, while equipped with a robust boxed frame and four-wheel drive, was ultimately more at home on highways and city streets than tackling demanding off-road trails. The 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML320 excelled as a comfortable, safe, and well-appointed luxury SUV for everyday use and light adventuring.
