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 1 through 10 of 15.00

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  GL450 Falling apart at 65K miles - 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
  By beachbenz - March 9 - 12:34 pm

  Ive got a 2009 GL450 with 65K miles. My wife drives it for light suburban driving only. In general, we like the vehicle, but it has been in the shop at least every three months. We are now out of warranty and have had a flood of issues in the past month. Three weeks ago the driver-side door lock mechanism went out. The audio (radio, phone, everything) went out last week and the system needed to be reset. This week, both front struts went out and nearly killed her (car was out of control). The bill for the struts and the doorlock is $5K, but the dealer offered to pick-up some of the tab. Ive owned a lot of new mercedes, but wont buy another one.

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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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  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.