2011 Mercedes-Benz M-Class ML 350

The 2011 M-Class is Mercedes' mid-size luxury SUV, the one you cross-shop with the BMW X5 and Audi Q7 when you want a three-pointed star on a tall body. It drives with a solid, planted feel that makes the big body shrink around you on the highway, and the steering is accurate even if it's on the numb side. The cabin is a genuinely nice place to spend time, with comfortable seats, quality materials, and enough room for tall people and big families. Owners report the occasional electronic gremlin, like a central locking glitch or a sunroof that's hard to tell if it's fully closed, but nothing that keeps the car off the road. Stepping up from the base ML 350 to the ML 350 4MATIC adds real all-weather capability and the confidence of traction on snow or dirt. The 3.5L V6 makes 268 horsepower and pairs with a smooth seven-speed automatic that shifts quickly when you need it, yet fades into the background around town. The Downhill Speed Regulation system, included with the 4MATIC, holds a set speed on steep descents so you can focus on steering.