2012 Mercedes-Benz M Class vs. Its Competition
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The original Mercedes-Benz M Class was a forerunner in 1998; along with the softer Lexus RX, the ML set a new standard for a generation of luxury SUVs and crossovers.
Now the competition in this segment is tighter than ever, with most of these vehicle still offering some level of trail ability along with lavish luxury interiors and extensive tech features.
The Lexus RX 350 is the only one that doesn't take aim at off-roading in any form; it's essentially a tall luxury wagon, but supremely comfortable inside.
BMW's latest X5 lives up to that automaker's reputation for handling, and its interior is now significantly upgraded, but its ride quality is still a potential issue.
The Audi Q7 is a standout for design and interior comfort, and it does offer a third row.
The MDX is an aging design, and one of the less overtly styled vehicles here, but it offers surprisingly good handling and performance along with the great interior versatility that Honda offers in its Pilot.
And Jeep now has a vehicle that's right up with this lot; the new somewhat more off-road-ready Jeep Grand Cherokee rides and handles as well as the M Class (after all, it's based on the same underpinnings), with a standard luxury-feature list that almost as good, and it costs less.
 2012 Mercedes-Benz M ClassGet FREE Price Quote |  2012 Acura MDXGet FREE Price Quote |  2012 Audi Q7Get FREE Price Quote |  2012 BMW X5Get FREE Price Quote |  2012 Jeep Grand CherokeeGet FREE Price Quote |  2012 Lexus RX 350Get FREE Price Quote |
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| Quick Specs | |||||
| Meta Rating | |||||
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz M Class is improved in nearly way, and remains one of the most luxurious and secure choices for families not needing a third row of seats. | The 2012 Acura MDX is not just comfortable and family-friendly; it's one of the most enjoyable three-row crossovers to drive. | The 2012 Audi Q7 has what upscale suburban families want: a lavish interior, a cabin full of premium features, and performance and ride that are very carlike--plus serious towing ability if and when you need it. | It doesn't pop with the styling or interior plushness of its competitors, but the 2012 BMW X5 has the powerful X5 M and frugal diesel up its sleeve. | The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee only gets better this year with the addition of the SRT8's thundering HEMI V-8. | A safe luxury-crossover choice for many good reasons, the 2012 Lexus RX 350 offers a serene driving experience and lots of cool tech features. |
| MSRP From | |||||
| $48,990 | $43,030 | $46,250 | $47,500 | $27,195 | $39,075 |
| Gas Mileage | |||||
| 14 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy | 16 MPG City / 21 MPG Hwy | 16 MPG City / 25 MPG Hwy | 14 MPG City / 26 MPG Hwy | 12 MPG City / 23 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 25 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | |||||
| Gas V6 | Gas V6 | Supercharged Gas V6 | Turbocharged Gas I6 | Gas/Ethanol V6 | Gas V6 |
| EPA Class | |||||
| Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD | Sport Utility Vehicle | 4WD Sport Utility Vehicle | 4WD Sport Utility Vehicle | 2WD Sport Utility Vehicle | 2WD Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Style Name | |||||
| 4MATIC 4-Door ML350 | AWD 4-Door | quattro 4-Door 3.0T Premium | AWD 4-Door 35i | RWD 4-Door Laredo | FWD 4-Door |
| Drivetrain | |||||
| All Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | |||||
| 5 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | |||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 4 | N/A |
| Body Style | |||||
| 4 Door | 4 Door | Sport Utility Vehicle | 4 Door Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Transmission | |||||
| Automatic | Automatic | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic w/manual shift |
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