M-Class / GLE W166 (ML / GLE) vs Pathfinder IV (R52): which is better?
Mercedes-Benz M-Class / GLE W166 (ML / GLE) (2011–2019) vs Nissan Pathfinder IV (R52) (2012–2020): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Mercedes-Benz M-Class / GLE W166 (ML / GLE)
Nissan Pathfinder IV (R52)Specifications
| Mercedes-Benz M-Class / GLE W166 (ML / GLE) | Nissan Pathfinder IV (R52) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2011–2019 | 2012–2020 |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.5 V6 (ML350 / GLE400) | 3.5 V6 |
| Power, up to | 249 hp | 249 hp |
| Torque, up to | 340 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | CVT |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 804 mm | 5 008 mm |
| Width | 1 926 mm | 1 960 mm |
| Height | 1 796 mm | 1 768 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 915 mm | 2 900 mm |
| Fuel tank | 93 L | 73 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 68 375 ₸ | ≈ 68 375 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Mercedes-Benz M-Class / GLE W166 (ML / GLE)
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 249 hp
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large tank: 93 L
Cons
- Engine Mercedes M254/M256/M276/M278/M176: complex engines, expensive to repair
- Gearbox Mercedes 7G-Tronic (722.9): control board failure (speed sensors)
Engine (Mercedes M254/M256/M276/M278/M176): engines are complex and expensive to repair; oil leaks and chain issues occur on M276/M278 at high mileage.
Gearbox (Mercedes 7G-Tronic (722.9)): control board failure (speed sensors); valve body wear.
Nissan Pathfinder IV (R52)
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 249 hp
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Large fuel tank: 73 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine Nissan VQ (V6): oil consumption on some engines
- Gearbox Jatco JF016E/JF017E (CVT): bearing whine
Engine (Nissan VQ (V6)): oil consumption on some engines; catalytic converter breakdown and cylinder scoring; valve cover leaks.
Gearbox (Jatco JF016E/JF017E (CVT)): bearing drone; belt and pulley wear; overheating.
Which one to choose
- M-Class / GLE W166 (ML / GLE) — if you care more about: torque, wheelbase, fuel tank.
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 W166 (ML / GLE) or Pathfinder IV (R52)?
M-Class / GLE W166 (ML / GLE): up to 249 hp, Pathfinder IV (R52): up to 249 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: M-Class / GLE W166 (ML / GLE) — about 68 375 ₸, Pathfinder IV (R52) — about 68 375 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.