Overview & Reviews
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is a full-size luxury SUV built at Mercedes' Tuscaloosa, Alabama, plant alongside the midsize M-Class SUV and R-Class luxury wagon. This is Mercedes' biggest SUV, with three rows of seating and plenty of cargo space. If you're in the market for such a vehicle -- and value on-the-road comfort and manners more than ultimate off-road prowess or tow capacity -- you'll definitely want to check out the GL-Class.
Current Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is offered in three variants: GL350 Bluetec, GL450 and top-of-the-line GL550. The latter features the more powerful V8 engine, a more pronounced front grille and most of the less expensive models' optional features. The GL350 Bluetec has a clean-burning diesel while the GL450 has a gas-powered V8, but these models are virtually identical in terms of equipment.
All GL-Class models have generous seating for up to seven passengers, a roomy cargo hold, capable all-weather performance and the ability to tow various lifestyle accessories, though not quite as effortlessly as some rivals. Standard niceties include powered and heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control and a power-folding third-row seat. A hard-drive-based navigation system is available.
Under the GL450's hood is a 4.7-liter V8 making 335 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. The GL550 features a 5.5-liter V8 that produces 382 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The 50-state-aproved GL350 Bluetec is powered by a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 good for 210 hp and 400 lb-ft of low-rpm torque. That type of off-the-line power is well suited to a large SUV, and the diesel also yields superior fuel economy. All GL-Class models come equipped with a seven-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. They also all come with an air-adjustable suspension and all-wheel drive.
In reviews, we've lauded the GL-Class' roomy seating, luxurious cabin and powerful engines. All of the expected luxuries are either standard or available, and the GL also offers the advantage of being slightly less enormous than some rivals. However, it is quite expensive compared to similar models from Audi, Infiniti and Land Rover. Overall, we highly recommend the GL-Class if the price is not too off-putting.
Used Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Models
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class was introduced for 2007 with two trim levels: GL320 CDI and GL450. The GL320 CDI's diesel power plant was similar in output to the current Bluetec diesel, but it was not cleared for sale in California-emissions states. The GL550 and its more powerful gasoline V8 arrived in 2008. For 2009, the GL320 Bluetec model replaced the GL320 CDI, boasting cleaner emissions that allowed it to be 50-state legal. Also for 2009, the navigation system received hard-drive-based functionality, and the COMAND interface was updated. For 2010, the diesel model became the GL350 Bluetec and received a smidge more torque.
User Reviews:
Showing 21 through 30 of 213.00-
Why not to get the GL450/550 - 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
By Lazy Labradors - February 17 - 10:06 pmSurprised at the fit and finish of an American assembled MB. Quite a departure from my 98 ML320 that my mechanic often cursed this is not a Mercedes! Why choose the GL450/550 when 1) gas version comes at a $2500 premium over the diesel (not the case usually with diesel vehicles) 2) gas version requires premium unleaded fuel (premium still costs more than diesel) 3) the diesel gets 18/24 gas gets 13/18 ( GL550 will fare worse); average economy for both cars at 12k miles/year and factoring price differences for premium vs. diesel youd save ~$600/yr in fuel savings on top of the $2500; Not noisy, not slow, no smoke or smell; 0-60 who cares?? its an SUV
-
Trouble some vehicle - 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
By nafresh - January 26 - 12:09 pmI have 2011 GL Since 2013 now after 48 months Engine and transmission start leaking oil rear suspension airbag blasted at highway last year drive assisted sensor stop working, so much trouble spoke to several owners they confirm vehicle have lot of problems
-
Big Let down - 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
By lcole - January 26 - 10:00 amI have owned my GL for three months and have really been let down by the events over the past 4 days. So far, I have a broken strut, failed air suspension system, and peeling clear coat. Total cost of repairs: $1200. Is my dealership as happy to see me now as they were when I purchased? Of course not. My dream car has turned into a total nightmare for me. I loved it because it is one of the few SUVs with a comfortable third row, but now, I see that I can live without a third row and a Mercedes.
-
Dissapointment - 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
By user - December 18 - 10:43 pmThe car is a luxury vehicle (65K+) and driving it is really a pleasure. I got two kids and did not want to have a van, but a nice car that would have a lot of space inside. the vehicle is very functional, has 3rd row seats, etc.etc. I would not review it unless I had quality issues with it. The 7 speed transmission failed after 32 000 miles. The suspension failed after 38 000 miles. Warranty expires at 50 000 miles. After the two main components of the car failed I cant imagine what breaks next - the engine? And everything happened below 40K miles. Expect to put big $ after you are out of warranty and those issues keep on occurring.
-
Let It Ride - 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
By W-4-550 - December 3 - 7:43 pmThis is a truck of excess. All options basically included and its a pleasure to drive. Also stands out against the GL 450. So just get this truck and "let it ride".
-
Not so happy with my GL450 - 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
By TEaves - November 20 - 8:40 amI havent been as satisfied with this Mercedes purchase. Ive had the car in the shop over 18 times since I bought it for various annoyances including the pump that raises the vehicle on difficult terrain, the hatch latch, the motion/obstacle sensor system, etc. The leather interior stains easily, even from picking up color from clothing. And the customer service at Mercedes Benz could care less so Ill be moving on to something else after I get a few kids off to college.
-
2013 GL550 - 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
By jpk112 - September 23 - 4:32 pmAt the end of October 2012 we traded in my wifeÂs 2008 Mercedes 4matic (station wagon) for a new Mercedes 2013 GL550. We love the exterior design of the car and the flexibility on the interior design with the third row seats. The acceleration of the car is incredible-no problem merging onto the freeway or passing. Gas mileage is not the cars strong suit but I did not expect it to be. Now the bad, at 4000 miles the car needs new front rotors which are not yet a stocking item at my dealership-10 day wait! A In addition both side view mirrors are defective-drivers side is frosted and the passengerÂs side has two stripped bolts off its backing plate.
-
The Best SUV Ive ever owned - 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
By jluna - September 12 - 3:30 pmLeave it to MB. They hit the nail on the head with this car. I wanted the CDI, but it is not yet available in California. After having owned a Range Rover, a 4Runner and a Cayenne, I can say this is the best SUV out there. If not for the 911 Porsche, probably the best car out there.
-
Best for tall people - 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
By Tall One - August 23 - 12:33 amFinally a vehicle for folks over 63" tall.I am 68" tall and this is the only vehicle that even came close to comfortable all things considered. No sedan was even close. Great mileage and is the fastest vehicle 0-60 that I or any of my friends have ever seen. 20K miles so far. Tires are still good.Only problem was a fuel sensor to replace. We are leasing this one. Plan to buy a 2010 with P2 package. The gas version leaves the diesel version in the dust {respectfully]Power lift gate is great for wife.
-
real value - 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
By barbaqued - August 15 - 4:46 amI really like the car. The handling is excellent and so is the fuel economy. The cabin is quite and stays cool even our Arizona summer. There was an issue with the radio that took three tries to fix. Apparently a window switch was interfering with a speaker and causing distortion. The navigation really needs some help so does the i-pod interface. If you have ever used a Garmen you will be frustrated with Mercedes navigation. I have pulled large trailers without problem. After 20,000 miles I am planning to buy a 2009.
