Mercedes M-Class SUV (2011-2015) - Practicality & boot space
Despite its size, the Mercedes M-Class SUV is easy to live with
The Mercedes M-Class is a mighty car with huge proportions, which benefits practicality but also means it can be a bit unwieldy to drive. It measures up at 4,804mm in length and 1,926mm in width, which puts it about level with the Porsche Cayenne (4,855mm long and 1,945mm wide). However, it's smaller the Audi Q7, which is a true hulk at 5,089mm long and 1,983m wide.
If it weren't for the standard parking aids (and the optional parking camera) the M-Class would probably be a nightmare to park, but the Parking Assist feature makes things a lot easier, so despite its size, this isn't a difficult car to manoeuvre in tight spots.
Mercedes M-Class interior space and storage
There's plenty of space inside the M-Class, which isn't surprising given its exterior proportions. There are assorted storage cubbies, trays and hooks to keep things tidy, too.
There could be a little more space in the back seats, but that's nitpicking, and there are ISOFIX child-seat mounts for the outer two rear seats. The only real downside is the lack of a third row of seats across the range, which will leave larger families out of luck and considering rival such as the Range Rover instead.
Mercedes M-Class boot space
The M-Class has one of the biggest boots in its class, at 690 litres with the rear seats upright and 2,010 litres when they're folded flat. Only the Audi Q7 offers more, at 775 and 2,035 litres (although it's a bigger car overall). The Mercedes has a bigger boot than the Porsche Cayenne, BMW X5 and Volkswagen Touareg.
There aren't any compromising lips and grooves in the floor, so it's easily one of the most practical cars in its class. The boot tailgate is electronic too, which makes loading quite a lot easier if you've got your hands full. The rear seats split and fold in a 60:40 configuration and there's a tyre-repair kit in the boot, too.
Mercedes M-Class towing
A huge and powerful 4x4 like the M-Class is perfect for towing and even the 2.1-litre diesel ML 250 can handle a 2,950kg trailer or caravan. The ML 350 can haul 3,500kg, while the petrol ML 63 AMG can pull 3,050kg.
