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Mercedes-Benz M-Class I (W163) gallery (1997–2005)

First generation of the mid-size body-on-frame luxury SUV Mercedes-Benz M-Class (W163), pioneering the modern premium SUV segment in 1997.

All photos 239 I (W163) 6 1997–2005 II (W164) 90 2005–2011 III (W166) 120 2011–2015
Mercedes-Benz M-Class I (W163), SUV, blue, front three-quarter view — photo 17256 1280 x 960 64 ML55 AMG
SUV A dark blue SUV is parked at a front three-quarter angle on dark gravel terrain with its headlights and fog lights turned on.
Mercedes-Benz M-Class I (W163), SUV, black, front three-quarter view — photo 17255 1280 x 960 59 ML55 AMG
SUV A black five-door SUV is driving along an asphalt country road with motion-blurred trees and buildings in the background. The vehicle is captured in a front three-quarter view under warm sunset lighting.
Mercedes-Benz M-Class I (W163), SUV, blue, front three-quarter view — photo 17254 1280 x 960 64 ML55 AMG
SUV A dark blue SUV with roof rails and five-spoke alloy wheels parked on a sandy surface under a clear sky.
Mercedes-Benz M-Class I (W163) photo 17253 1024 x 768 68 ML55 AMG
Mercedes-Benz M-Class I (W163) photo 17252 1024 x 768 63 ML55 AMG
Mercedes-Benz M-Class I (W163) photo 17251 1024 x 768 60 ML55 AMG

The first-generation Mercedes-Benz M-Class (chassis code W163) debuted in 1997, manufactured at a purpose-built facility in Vance, Alabama. Designed primarily for the North American market, the W163 utilized body-on-frame construction combined with independent double-wishbone suspension front and rear to deliver truck capability alongside car-like ride comfort.

Powertrains ranged from a 2.3-liter four-cylinder (ML 230) and 3.2/3.7-liter V6s (ML 320, ML 350) to 4.3 and 5.0-liter V8s (ML 430, ML 500), plus 2.7-liter five-cylinder and 4.0-liter V8 turbodiesels. All models featured permanent 4-ETS four-wheel traction control. The high-performance ML 55 AMG packed a 347-hp 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8. A major 2001 mid-cycle refresh upgraded interior materials, automatic climate controls, and clear-lens headlights.