M-Class / GLE W163 (ML) vs Highlander I (XU20): which is better?
Mercedes-Benz M-Class / GLE W163 (ML) (1997–2005) vs Toyota Highlander I (XU20) (2000–2007): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Toyota Highlander I (XU20)Specifications
| Mercedes-Benz M-Class / GLE W163 (ML) | Toyota Highlander I (XU20) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 1997–2005 | 2000–2007 |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.2 V6 (ML320) | 3.0 V6 |
| Power, up to | 218 hp | 223 hp |
| Torque, up to | 315 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 587 mm | 4 685 mm |
| Width | 1 833 mm | 1 825 mm |
| Height | 1 822 mm | 1 735 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 820 mm | 2 715 mm |
| Fuel tank | 70 L | 72 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 66 275 ₸ | ≈ 42 425 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Mercedes-Benz M-Class / GLE W163 (ML)
Pros
- Gearbox Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic): very reliable
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Large tank: 70 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Gearbox Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic): leaking connector adapter and wiring
- Age: the last cars were built in 2005, condition is everything
Gearbox (Mercedes 722.x (4–5-speed automatic)): very reliable; leaks from the connector adapter and wiring.
Toyota Highlander I (XU20)
Pros
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large tank: 72 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Toyota 1MZ-FE (3.0 V6) engine: piston ring coking and oil consumption
Engine (Toyota 1MZ-FE (3.0 V6)): ring coking and oil consumption; cracked engine mounts.
Which one to choose
- M-Class / GLE W163 (ML) — if you care more about: torque, wheelbase.
- Highlander I (XU20) — if you care more about: power, fuel tank, kz tax 2026.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: M-Class / GLE W163 (ML) or Highlander I (XU20)?
M-Class / GLE W163 (ML): up to 218 hp, Highlander I (XU20): up to 223 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: M-Class / GLE W163 (ML) — about 66 275 ₸, Highlander I (XU20) — about 42 425 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.