2002 Mercedes-Benz M-class (W163, facelift 2001) Dimensions, Size & Specs

With the side mirrors opened, the 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-class (W163 facelift) spans 2126 mm (83.7 inches) in width. This measurement is crucial for drivers when navigating narrow streets, tight parking spaces, or garages as it affects maneuverability and clearance. Awareness of this width helps prevent damage to the mirrors and surrounding objects.

The curb weight of the 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-class (W163 facelift) ranges between 2040 and 2260 kg (4495 to 4980 lbs), depending on the specific model and equipment. The maximum permissible weight is up to 2870 kg (6332 lbs), which includes passengers, cargo, and any additional load. This indicates the SUV's sturdy build and capacity to carry substantial loads without compromising performance.

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-class (W163 facelift) offers a generous luggage capacity of 1061 liters (37.5 cubic feet) with the rear seats upright. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo space expands significantly to 2020 liters (71.3 cubic feet). This versatility makes it suitable for daily errands, road trips, or transporting larger items, enhancing the SUV's utility.

This model features a ride height or ground clearance between 189 and 205 mm (7.4 to 8.1 inches). This provides a balanced capability to handle rough terrain, moderate off-road conditions, and urban obstacles such as speed bumps while maintaining vehicle stability and comfort on paved roads.

The 2002 W163 facelift Mercedes-Benz M-class comes equipped with various tire and rim options to suit different driving preferences. Rims are sized at 8J x 17, 8.5J x 17, and 9J x 18 inches. Corresponding tire sizes include 255/60 R17, 275/55 R17, and 285/50 R18. These setups provide a blend of comfort, handling, and off-road capability appropriate for an SUV of this class.

A standard residential garage typically has an interior width of about 2400 to 2700 mm (94.5 to 106 inches) and a height around 2100 to 2400 mm (82.7 to 94.5 inches). With a width of up to 1895 mm (74.6 inches) excluding mirrors, and a height of up to 1820 mm (71.7 inches), the 2002 M-class (W163 facelift) generally fits comfortably inside a standard garage. However, the width including opened mirrors (2126 mm or 83.7 inches) requires careful mirror folding before entry to avoid contact.

The 2002 facelifted W163 maintained very similar exterior dimensions to its predecessor, with minor tweaks primarily in styling and equipment rather than size. The length remained around 4635-4638 mm (182.7-182.8 inches), width between 1840 and 1895 mm (72.4-74.6 inches), and height approximately 1804-1820 mm (71.0-71.7 inches). However, the facelift introduced design refinements that improved aerodynamics and interior packaging slightly, but the vehicle's footprint remained largely consistent.

Compared to contemporaries like the BMW X5 E53 and Lexus RX, the 2002 Mercedes-Benz M-class (W163 facelift) is slightly larger in length and height, offering a robust SUV presence. Its ground clearance between 189-205 mm (7.4-8.1 inches) provides competitive off-road capability compared to more road-focused competitors. Its cargo capacity (1061 liters or 37.5 cubic feet with rear seats up) is also generous, making it a versatile choice for families or outdoor enthusiasts. The M-class balances luxury, practicality, and off-road ability better than many rivals which often prioritize sportiness or on-road comfort.

The 2002 facelift of the Mercedes-Benz M-class (W163) brought a refreshed exterior with updated bumpers, headlamps, and grille for a more modern and aggressive look. Technically, enhancements included improved safety features, refined suspension for better ride comfort, and updated engine options for better performance and efficiency. Interior upgrades enhanced material quality and ergonomics, positioning the M-class as a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment during its production period from 2001 to 2005.