2013 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Rating applies to 2012-15 models

Tested vehicle: 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 550 4-door 4wd

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class was redesigned for the 2012 model year and renamed the GLE-Class beginning with the 2016 model year. Moderate overlap frontal ratings are assigned by the Institute based on a test conducted on a 2012 model M-Class by Mercedes-Benz.

Rating applies to 2012-15 models

Tested vehicle: 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 Bluetec 4-door 4wd with standard front and rear head curtain airbags and standard front seat-mounted torso airbags

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class was redesigned for the 2012 model year and renamed the GLE-Class beginning with 2016 models.

Beginning with 2014 models, side torso airbags became optional for rear seat occupants (they were standard in 2012-13 models). Side ratings are assigned by the Institute based on two tests conducted by Mercedes-Benz.

The first test was conducted on a 2012 model ML 550 V8 (including the standard rear side torso airbags) and the second test on a 2014 model ML 350 Bluetec diesel V6 without the optional rear side torso airbags. The ratings for these vehicles are combined because the presence or lack of rear side torso airbags made little difference for rear occupant protection in the tests. (Rear occupants still receive the benefit of the standard side curtain airbags.) This is because for a large vehicle with a long wheelbase (115 inches in this case), the intruding barrier impacts the vehicle relatively far from the rear seat.

Rating applies to 2012-15 models

Tested vehicle: 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 4-door 4wd

Seat type: Power leather seat AHR