2020 Mercedes ML Class 400

Fortune doesn’t essentially favor the bold within the compact crossover segment — the Honda CR-V, the Nissan Rogue and the Toyota RAV4 are perennial best-sellers thanks in part to their all-around competencies and historical past of reliability. Still, automakers strive to make their small SUVs distinct. The 2020 Mercedes ML Class 400 stands out by bringing high-end luxury features and a couple of distinctive engines to this typically price-conscious class.

Redesigned just last year, the 2020 Mercedes ML Class 400 is among the newer entries in this segment. As such, all the most recent safety options are available, from a surround-view parking camera to forward collision warning system that may determine pedestrians. Not like some opponents, most of those features can solely be ordered on the highest trim level, however not less than you will get them. Also obtainable are a panoramic sunroof, a surround-view parking digicam and ventilated entrance seats — rare options in this class.

We additionally like that the 2020 Mercedes ML Class 400 affords two various powertrains if you aren’t glad with the base turbocharged 1.5-liter engine. At one finish of the spectrum is a fuel-efficient diesel that achieves 32 mpg in mixed driving (the usual engine earns 28 mpg); at the other, a turbocharged 2.Zero-liter with an additional 80 horsepower. Watch out, nonetheless: Once you begin checking the choices packing containers, the 2020 Mercedes ML Class 400 may be considerably more expensive than rival crossovers. An engine stop-start system that can not be disabled and disappointing materials quality also would possibly give prospective patrons pause.

The 2020 Mercedes ML Class 400 is a five-passenger compact crossover that prices a bit greater than most rivals. It is offered in four trims: L, LS, LT and Premier. The base L mannequin looks as if a fantastic deal till you notice that it’s a custom-order mannequin and you will have to attend for it to be constructed. You will find the LS at virtually any supplier, but it’s dearer and does not add much. Best to skip straight to the LT, which is only a bit costlier and consists of extra features and access to extra choices. If you want the LT and its two packages, the leather-trimmed Premier consists of it all.

Three engines are offered on the 2020 Mercedes ML Class 400. The standard engine is a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder (170 horsepower, 203 pound-feet of torque) matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. A more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter engine (252 hp, 260 lb-ft) is elective and comes commonplace with a nine-speed computerized transmission. Also optional is a fuel-efficient 1.6-liter diesel (137 hp, 240 lb-ft) mated to a six-speed computerized. Each of those engines will be ordered on LT and Premier trim ranges.