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:

• 

  Excellent 7 seat luxury SUV with nice & improved features - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By h82bl8 - April 10 - 9:59 am

  We purchased the 15 GL450 as a family vehicle/daily use vehicle for my wife. Its a perfect luxury 7 seat SUV in my opinion. Its roomy, both elegant and athletic inside. I was sort of hesitant on the new V6 bi-turbo engine but what a pleasant surprise! Though the engine sound is not as pleasing as the V8, the performance speaks for itself. It has similar performance as the naturally aspirated V8 in the X164 (GLs before 13) while getting better gas mileage. Weve owned the previous version GL450 & GL350 and the interior, especially the "technology" has definitely improved significantly. The navi system is now somewhat user friendly, though not as nice as the Japanese cars and Audi MMI.

• 

  New to MB - 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By srpastor1 - March 28 - 8:10 am

  Its been a month since I traded my Lexus LS430 sedan for a 2011 GL 450 SUV. I researched the luxury SUV segment for more than 6 months. I ordered it with the P2 option, entertainment center and other luxury options. After 1000 miles, I realize that German engineering is very different from Japanese. The GL is very quiet, roomy and an attention getter. The drivetrain is excellent and smooth. It is awkward getting in and out of the cabin. Sitting high is excellent for urban driving. Overall, I like this vehicle but am still acclimating to MB luxury. It meets my needs for additional seating with a luxury nameplate. As I expected, the gas mileage is consistent with this segment.

• 

  The Germans have done it again - 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By tdiesel - March 26 - 11:46 am

  Its a Mercedes and it holds up to its name. I test drove the Range Rover, Infiniti QX56 and the Escalade. None of which come even close to comfort and performance. I opted for the GL320 CDI, which is the turbo diesel and for an almost 3 ton truck I get between 24 and 29mpg(The Escalade gets between 12 and 18mpg). The interior design is truly stunning and it has more features than youll ever use.

• 

  Great Performance - 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By Veronica vicente - March 5 - 12:56 am

  Driving the new GL Class seven seater has been great and worth the money. Im very happy with its special high technology. The navigation system is awesome.

• 

  SUV from Utopia - 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By KARL_MD - January 28 - 4:40 am

  What a vehicle. The complete package, from styling and performance to comfort and luxury. I have only had the black-on-black beauty for several days now, but I can state with certitude that there is no other full-size SUV that comes close to competing. I considered and test drove the 2007 Tahoe, the Armada and the Durango. I am glad that I did not settle for anything short of the GL 450.

• 

  Great SUV - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By John L - January 23 - 2:33 pm

  Replaced my Acura MDX with this Mercedes. Drives nearly like a sedan. Very composed and solid ride. Does not feel large at all. Interior finish is well done. The AWD feels secure on snowy and wet roads. system is more intuitive in my old Acura. Overall, happy with the vehicle so far.

• 

  Love It - 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By Davis - January 4 - 11:53 pm

  I drove an Acura prior to the GL. I looked at the Navigator and Cadillac SUV, but settled on the GL. It handle well under all types of road conditions. The ride is excellent and comfortable in locally or on long distance travel. My kids love the third row and the room is great. It has been an excellent investment.

• 

  High Quality and Technology - 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By Kenneth Taylor - December 18 - 6:01 am

  This car seems very well made; its a tank. MB uses materials that seem very durable, even if unusual and hard to clean. This SUV is a good size, big but not huge. The front seats arent quite as comfortable as I expected but not bad. The SatNav is easy to use and up to date with lots of search options. Connectivity is top notch, USB, iPad, WiFi Hotspot, and more (MB is a button push away like OnStar). Lots of technology innovations that you wouldnt know about unless someone told you. The 2nd, 3rd row seats are very easy to raise and lower with a push of a button. Lots of convenience items, like 120 V outlet, full size spare with jack, electric park brake, push button/lever shifter. If you want to keep the price down you will likely have to special order which is what I did (2-3 month wait). I cant comment on the advanced techno features like Park Assist, Lane Keeping, Night Vision, etc. since I didnt get those features. The vehicle is heavy but has enough power to accelerate well from start (with a lot of gas pedal). This car is designed to save gas and it does that well (e.g. Eco Start/Stop). I love the Brake Hold feature! Also has first ever eco-friendly tires from Pirelli that seem pretty good plus quiet. The car drives remarkably well and is well mannered when parking. Perfect soccer mom car with some luxury and glitz. I look forward to driving again. My last car was a Shelby GT500 which was fun but tiring compared to this car. Not liking the bare aluminum running boards so much. After several years they will look nasty if you dont take good care of them. This car is the widest in its class so lots of room. I compared a LOT before buying this one. Rumor: MB will be cutting supply to the US.

• 

  Best Car owned - 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By Carlos - September 10 - 8:13 pm

  We own a 2009 SL and now the new 2010 GL Bluetec. This SUV has many of the excellent quality features of the SL. Get the P2 package ! You really want keyless start and HK sound system. In City the car is actually more fuel efficient than reported 21-22 miles per gallon and 22- 24 on Highway. This is the best SUV on the market !

• 

  Much Better than the ML! - 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By Chris - August 13 - 9:56 am

  I have had 40 cars in the past 25 years, but this is one of the best! The new GL Class is my 7th MB and the best one to date. Power is smooth and responsive, steering is fluid, sight lines are not restricted. My two complaints are the braking, which is touchy and not fluid, and the seats. The seats could use a deeper bottom cushion for your legs, a la the 07 S Class. I do have the multi contour option which helps, but doesnt solve the problem. Gas mileage is good, reaching about 18-19 on the highway. Interior space is roomy and silent! Air suspension eats up the bumps, too! Barring some lower back pain on long trips, this is the truck for you if you want to haul, be it kids, or cargo