Mercedes-Benz ML value and depreciation
Known for first wave luxury suv, cheap used.
Depreciation curve
We class the Mercedes-Benz ML as a premium (established) in our 12-tier model, which puts its retention at roughly 65% after three years and 50% after five. German and established luxury compacts and mid-sizers. A hard first-year knock, then steady losses that accelerate once the motorplan expires.
Retention table
| After | Retained |
|---|---|
| 1 year | 82% |
| 3 years | 65% |
| 5 years | 50% |
| 7 years | 38% |
| 10 years | 25% |
Estimates for a new purchase at list price; retail basis, trade-in ≈ 12% under retail.
The ML brought the luxury SUV wave to SA in 1998 and sold strongly across three generations until the GLE renaming in 2015. Early W163 models had patchy build quality while later ones were far better. Used examples are abundant and cheap, but air suspension and electronics can make ownership pricey.
ML against its rivals
Mercedes-Benz ML: common questions
Does the Mercedes-Benz ML hold its value?
We class the Mercedes-Benz ML as a premium (established) in our 12-tier model, which puts its retention at roughly 65% after three years and 50% after five. German and established luxury compacts and mid-sizers. A hard first-year knock, then steady losses that accelerate once the motorplan expires.
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All figures are modelled estimates for planning, not offers or valuations. Data reviewed 2026.