Overview & Reviews

For the 2009 Mercedes GL-Class, a new diesel-powered GL320 Bluetec model replaces the previous GL320 CDI. The Bluetec model's cleaner emissions allow it to be 50-state legal. There are also some revisions to the GL's standard and optional equipment. Highlights include an enhanced rear-seat entertainment system, hard-drive-based functionality for the navigation system, an updated COMAND interface with a 6.5-inch display and a dedicated iPod connector.

• Strong acceleration from V8 engines, quiet interior, many available luxury features, comfortable seating, excellent craftsmanship.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 15 of 15.00

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  Worst car experience - 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By dianeh1 - April 24 - 2:08 pm

  Will never own a Mercedes again. Non-stop money-pit from the day I bought it to the day I sold it. Beware the air suspension on Mercedes-Benz. Mine went "out" every six months or so. Paint peeled off around the windows just when it was out of warranty. I estimate I spent $6,000 a year in repairs. It is also a huge gas guzzler.

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  What a SUV Should Be - 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By DieselBenzGL - March 22 - 11:10 pm

  The GL is a perfectly sized SUV. It is large enough to carry 6 people comfortably yet not so big that it looks like a behemoth coming down the road. Its size makes it very maneuverable and easy to drive for such a large vehicle. The GL320 Bluetec uses approximately 30% less fuel and polutes 30% less than other large SUVs. 500 miles in the city and 600 miles on the freeway are the normal fillup intervals. On the freeway, it handles better than most sedans. The steering is not loose but at the same time isnt so tight that the vehicle swerves every time you adjust the HVAC. The rearview mirrors were made larger in 2009. Any larger and they would look out of proportion to the vehicle.

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  S-class on stilts - 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By DrBillyD - December 8 - 8:32 pm

  The upside: Smooth ride. Precise steering. Powerful acceleration (with the GL550). Fairly capable off road for a vehicle w/o locking differential. Prestige. Comfortable seat(s). The downside: Maintenance cost(s)... E.g. had to replace all for air shocks (front about $1300--each; rear about $900 (for both)), starter motor ($800). Brakes actually last a long time and replacing rotors surprisingly "cheap" at about $350/axle. Tires only last about 20-25K miles (295/40-21) and theres a limited selection--a new set will set you back about $2200. The electronics were capricious--sometimes car wouldnt completely shut down when door opened (i.e. normal shut down is engine off & accessories stay on until door opened. started acting up sometimes where accessories wouldnt power down when door opened & had to open/shut door a few times to get it to shut down). Homelink garage door opener had a button that wouldnt work. EZ-GO door handles had to be replaced. Drivers side mirror folding mechanism broke. When I smelled leaking oil burning on the exhaust manifold, I knew it was time to get rid of it. Bottom line: Surprisingly comfortable and agile for a 7 passenger, 3 ton SUV and most comfortable car/truck Ive ever driven. However, after repair issues cited above, Id be reluctant to own a M-B again..... Update (5/2016): Traded in @ 120K miles. Reading through original review brought back bad memories of astronomical repair bills. There are better choices in the large luxury SUV segment.

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  Perfect truck but poor technology - 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By Gurmeet Singh - July 8 - 9:36 pm

  It is a pleasure to drive this car with comfort seating and the excellent engine it has - very quite and smooth/gliding ride which we love. However, on technology and interior space usage, it is quite poor - My Sienna 2006 had better technology and interior space usage than this truck.

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  Love It - 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By Sajan - September 5 - 12:16 am

  This is my first Benz, dreamed for long time, before I test drive, I went test drive the FX50, Q7, and BMW, didnt look at the LX570, didnt any deal at the time, GX470 was too old. But IMO, i like the GL is much better than these. SO far its good, no problems at all. I love new NAV, only problem so far I find, when i am on call through bluetooth, if i turn off the car and open the door it will drop the call, it didnt do it on my 2008 G35. that is only -ive. when u buy this SUV, make sure u get P2 and appreance pkg, its very good