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Mercedes-Benz M-Class W163 (1st M-Class Generation)

1998–2005 · W163 · suv

The W163 M-Class is Mercedes-Benz's first SUV and the first model produced at the Tuscaloosa, Alabama, plant. US sales ran from 1998 through 2005. Powertrains include the M112 V6, M113 V8 and the AMG-developed M113 in the ML55 AMG. The 1998-2001 cars are widely considered the rougher build years; the 2002+ facelift improved quality.

Watch out: Owner reports of early-build-year quality issues (sunroof drain water intrusion to floor pans, interior trim wear, electrical gremlins) and rust on rear wheel arches and the lower tailgate are routine on early W163s. Aging cooling-system components and transmission conductor-plate failures on the 5G-Tronic are documented concerns.