Used Mercedes-Benz GL-Class for Sale nearBoise, ID
Shop with transparent pricing.
Only show listings that include dealer fees- Year:
- 2007
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 335 hp 4.7L V8
- Exterior color:
- Silver
- Combined gas mileage:
- 15 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Gray
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 107,255
- Stock #:
- T228318
- VIN:
- 4JGBF71E47A228318
Sponsored by Maverick Car Company
2007 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450
107,255 mi
$7,494
- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 362 hp 3L V6
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 146,184
- Stock #:
- 681599
- VIN:
- 4JGDF6EE5GA681599
Sponsored Listing
2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450
146,184 mi
$10,995
- Year:
- 2014
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 362 hp 4.7L V8
- Exterior color:
- Red
- Combined gas mileage:
- 16 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 96,515
- Stock #:
- 11509
- VIN:
- 4JGDF7CE4EA403007
Sponsored Listing
2014 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450 4MATIC
96,515 mi
$12,294
- Year:
- 2013
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 429 hp 4.7L V8
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 15 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown (Tan)
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 87,479
- VIN:
- 4JGDF7DE4DA261464
2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 550 4MATIC
87,479 mi
$14,650
- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 429 hp 4.7L V8
- Exterior color:
- Palladium Silver Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 15 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown (Beige)
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 74,398
- Stock #:
- 3451
- VIN:
- 4JGDF7DE0FA515805
2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 550 4MATIC
74,398 mi
$17,424
- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 550 hp 5.5L V8
- Exterior color:
- Jet Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 15 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 121,985
- Stock #:
- 630915
- VIN:
- 4JGDF7EE1GA630915
2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 63 AMG 4MATIC
121,985 mi
$20,907
- Year:
- 2014
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 362 hp 4.7L V8
- Exterior color:
- Red
- Combined gas mileage:
- 16 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 96,515
- Stock #:
- 11509
- VIN:
- 4JGDF7CE4EA403007
2014 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450 4MATIC
96,515 mi
$12,294
- Year:
- 2013
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 362 hp 4.7L V8
- Exterior color:
- Obsidian Black Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 16 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown (Almond Beige)
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 129,225
- Stock #:
- DA154746T
- VIN:
- 4JGDF7CE3DA154746
2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450 4MATIC
129,225 mi
$9,497
- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 362 hp 3L V6
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown (Beige)
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 63,986
- Stock #:
- P602984
- VIN:
- 4JGDF6EE0FA602984
2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450 4MATIC
63,986 mi
$17,411
- Year:
- 2014
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 362 hp 4.7L V8
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 16 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 119,829
- Stock #:
- 5727
- VIN:
- 4JGDF7CE0EA392295
2014 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450 4MATIC
119,829 mi
$10,624
- Year:
- 2014
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 550 hp 5.5L V8
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 15 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- White
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 73,939
- Stock #:
- 131530
- VIN:
- 4JGDF7EE6EA377572
-$1,000
2014 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 63 AMG 4MATIC
73,939 mi
$23,468
$22,468
- Year:
- 2013
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 362 hp 4.7L V8
- Exterior color:
- Arctic White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 16 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 148,471
- Stock #:
- 130691
- VIN:
- 4JGDF7CE5DA130691
2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450 4MATIC
148,471 mi
$10,308
- Year:
- 2013
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 550 hp 5.5L V8
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 15 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 113,860
- Stock #:
- HL10785BB
- VIN:
- 4JGDF7EE3DA255525
2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL AMG 63 4MATIC
113,860 mi
$18,553
Customer summary
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class has been highly regarded across various model years for its luxurious feel, comfort, and powerful performance. Owners consistently praise its spacious interiors, making it suitable for families, and its smooth ride. However, some drivers express concerns about high maintenance costs, fuel efficiency, and the complexity of certain technologies. Overall, while many appreciate its refined features and capabilities, potential buyers should consider their budget for upkeep and fuel expenses.
- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 362 hp 3L V6
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 82,329
- Stock #:
- P677588
- VIN:
- 4JGDF6EE2GA677588
2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450
82,329 mi
$15,468
- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 362 hp 3L V6
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 146,184
- Stock #:
- 681599
- VIN:
- 4JGDF6EE5GA681599
2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450
146,184 mi
$10,995
- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 240 hp 3L V6 Diesel
- Exterior color:
- Polar White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 22 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Diesel
- Interior color:
- Brown (BEIGE)
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 140,615
- Stock #:
- 1064
- VIN:
- 4JGDF2EE9GA691528
2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 350 BlueTEC
140,615 mi
$14,731
- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 429 hp 4.7L V8
- Exterior color:
- Polar White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 15 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Gray
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 88,812
- Stock #:
- 547005
- VIN:
- 4JGDF7DE7FA547005
2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 550 4MATIC
88,812 mi
$19,597
- Year:
- 2013
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 362 hp 4.7L V8
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 16 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 104,375
- VIN:
- 4JGDF7CE2DA143270
2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450 4MATIC
104,375 mi
$13,807
- Year:
- 2016
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 362 hp 3L V6
- Exterior color:
- designo Diamond White Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown (Almond Beige/Black)
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 126,357
- Stock #:
- B567
- VIN:
- 4JGDF6EE8GA692015
2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450
126,357 mi
$12,782
- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 429 hp 4.7L V8
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 15 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 98,954
- Stock #:
- 467111
- VIN:
- 4JGDF7DE0FA467111
-$734
2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 550 4MATIC
98,954 mi
$16,871
$16,222
- Year:
- 2015
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 362 hp 3L V6
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 108,254
- Stock #:
- 465369
- VIN:
- 4JGDF6EE6FA465369
2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450 4MATIC
108,254 mi
$14,427
- Year:
- 2014
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 362 hp 4.7L V8
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 16 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 64,276
- Stock #:
- EA314164
- VIN:
- 4JGDF7CE2EA314164
2014 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450 4MATIC
64,276 mi
$18,130
- Year:
- 2011
- Make:
- Mercedes-Benz
- Model:
- GL-Class
- Body type:
- SUV / Crossover
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 335 hp 4.7L V8
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- 7-Speed Automatic Overdrive
- Mileage:
- 121,435
- Stock #:
- 260408
- VIN:
- 4JGBF7BE0BA682444
2011 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
GL 450 4MATIC AWD
121,435 mi
$8,357
How much does the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class cost in today's market?
Used Mercedes-Benz GL-Class prices span a wide range depending on model year. Here's what the market looks like right now:
| Model Year | Current Avg. Price | Year-Round Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $14,262 | $14,282 – $16,173 |
| 2015 | $13,881 | $13,486 – $15,053 |
| 2014 | $12,290 | $12,234 – $13,216 |
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class's current nationwide average price is $12,112, and its year-round low is $11,920.42. That gives you a clear snapshot of where this model sits right now across the years in the data.
Recently, prices have come down for the 2014, 2015, and 2016 models, making now a good time to shop recent model years.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class a good car?
Yes — the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class earns strong marks from owners across the model years in the data.
The all-generations owner rating is 4.58/5 across every model year in the data.
Owners repeatedly praise the GL-Class for its luxurious feel, spacious interior, smooth ride, and powerful performance. Families also tend to value the roomy cabin and comfortable driving experience.
31.6% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
Are Mercedes-Benz GL-Class models reliable?
Owners consistently describe the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class as comfortable, refined, and strong on performance, with smooth driving manners that stand out across the model years in the data. The expert and owner feedback also points to a vehicle that delivers a premium experience and practical space for family use.
- Owners rate the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class between 4.56 and 4.91 out of 5 stars across all model years in the data.
For used buyers, long-term ownership risk centers on upkeep and running costs, so a careful pre-purchase inspection and service-history review can help you buy with more confidence.
What should I look for when buying a used Mercedes-Benz GL-Class?
Across all model years, at 64.6% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
| Model Year | Accident-Free % |
|---|---|
| 2016 | 65.8% |
| 2015 | 67.3% |
| 2014 | 67.3% |
What Mercedes-Benz GL-Class do most buyers choose?
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class years with the most listings are 2015, 2014, and 2016.
| Model Year | Total Listings | Good + Great Deals % |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 480 | 33.8% |
| 2014 | 444 | 32.9% |
| 2016 | 319 | 33.5% |
Higher-volume years usually give you more choices on trim, mileage, color, and price, which can make it easier to compare listings and find a better fit. They also tend to attract more shopper attention, so you may see a wider spread of deal quality.
What is the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class's resale value?
| Model Year | Current Avg. Price | Year-Over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $14,262 | −11.0% |
| 2015 | $13,881 | −5.8% |
| 2014 | $12,290 | −5.23% |
Prices are moving lower across the model years shown, which can create better opportunities for used buyers. The sharpest drop appears in the newest year listed, while the other two years also show meaningful declines.
The 2014, 2015, and 2016 model years have held their value best, with the smallest year-over-year price changes.
Should I buy a used Mercedes-Benz GL-Class now or wait for the next model?
Buy now if:
- Price trend: The 2015 model is at −5.8% versus a year ago, and the 2014 model is at −5.23%.
- Deal availability: The 2015 model has 33.8% good and great deals, and the 2014 model has 32.9%.
- Sweet-spot year: The 2015 model has the most listings at a current average price of $13,881.
If you're buying used today, the 2015 model year offers the best mix of value and availability. If you want the newest version, it may be worth waiting for 2017 inventory to mature.
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from August 21, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
4.6 Overall rating
Customers say
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class has been highly regarded across various model years for its luxurious feel, comfort, and powerful performance. Owners consistently praise its spacious interiors, making it suitable for families, and its smooth ride. However, some drivers express concerns about high maintenance costs, fuel efficiency, and the complexity of certain technologies. Overall, while many appreciate its refined features and capabilities, potential buyers should consider their budget for upkeep and fuel expenses.
AI generated from the text of customer reviews.
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What people say
Денис Ч
Reviewed a 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 450 on Nov 1, 2024
The car is in perfect condition, requires no investment, new rubber, leather in perfect condition. I sat down and went. Maximum option. It is very rare to find such a condition. Thats great.
Derrick S
Reviewed a 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class on Sep 8, 2024
Car is excellent just have to keep up with maintenance and it could use more leg room in the back
Steven R
Reviewed a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class on Dec 20, 2025
Great features, plenty of power. The engine is amazing. I feel safe and confident driving this vehicle.
Walter B
Reviewed a 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class on Mar 13, 2026
I've met very few Benz 450 or 550 that I didn't like. Most folks who buy these cars are really good "car" people. They maintain the car as it is meant to be. These older Benz have probably the best v-8 ever made. The materials last because they are top of the line. I'm a retired GM exec. And Cadillac can't touch this car for long term durability. The car in the picture is in great shape. Most of these are. One thing to check before you buy is the drivers seat. If it is trashed walk away. You have to work at destroying one of these cars. Best pre-owned car to buy!!
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| GL 550 | $91,300 |
| GL 63 AMG 4MATIC | $121,100 |
| GL 350 BlueTEC | $64,550 |
| GL 450 | $66,200 |
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Price Trends
CarGurus tracks the prices of millions of used car listings every year. See how the average price of Mercedes-Benz GL-Class prices has changed over time.
See more price trendsMercedes-Benz GL-Class Pricing Analysis
Pricing Analysis by Model Year
Key Insights
- Significant Depreciation: The 2016 GL-Class shows a steep decline, with a current average price of $14,817, reflecting a depreciation of -77.0% from its original MSRP.
- Best Value Year: The 2012 model is priced at $9,380, representing a -84.8% depreciation, indicating it may offer the best value for budget-conscious buyers.
- Older Models at Low Prices: The 2009 GL-Class is available for $7,670, showcasing the deep depreciation trend for older models.
Model Year Pricing
| Model Year | Original MSRP | Avg Price | Price vs MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class | $64,550 | $14,817 | -77.0% |
| 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class | $63,600 | $14,691 | -76.9% |
| 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class | $63,000 | $12,827 | -79.7% |
| 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class | $62,400 | $11,745 | -81.2% |
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class | $61,570 | $9,380 | -84.8% |
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class | $60,950 | $9,300 | -84.7% |
| 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class | $59,950 | $7,322 | -87.8% |
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class | $59,200 | $7,670 | -87.0% |
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class | $53,400 | $7,522 | -86.9% |
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class | $53,175 | $7,169 | -86.5% |
Pricing by Popular US Cities
Market Area: Nationwide
Key Insights
- Highest Prices in Boston: The average price in Boston, MA is $13,977, likely due to higher demand and lower inventory.
- Lowest Prices in Miami: Miami, FL offers the lowest average price at $7,298, indicating a more price-sensitive market.
- Inventory Variation: Cities like New York (126 listings) and Philadelphia (120 listings) have substantial inventory, but prices remain relatively stable around $11,605 and $11,598, respectively.
City-Level Pricing
| City | Total Listings | Avg Price |
|---|---|---|
| Boston, MA | 101 | $13,977 |
| Chicago, IL | 111 | $12,491 |
| Dallas, TX | 105 | $12,420 |
| Philadelphia, PA | 120 | $11,598 |
| New York, NY | 126 | $11,605 |
| Washington, DC | 129 | $11,955 |
| Los Angeles, CA | 99 | $11,903 |
| Houston, TX | 97 | $11,876 |
| Atlanta, GA | 113 | $10,925 |
| Miami, FL | 81 | $7,298 |
Pricing by Trim Packages
Key Insights
- Most Common Trim: The GL 450 is the most listed trim with 175 listings, indicating strong demand for this model.
- Premium Pricing for High-End Trims: The GL 63 AMG 4MATIC has a significantly higher MSRP of $121,100, reflecting its luxury features and performance capabilities.
- AWD Dominance: All trims listed are AWD, suggesting a market preference for all-weather capability.
Trim-Level Details
| Trim | Listings | MSRP | Drivetrain | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GL 450 | 175 | $66,200 | AWD | 3.0L 362 hp V6 |
| GL 550 | 43 | $91,300 | AWD | 4.7L 429 hp V8 |
| GL 63 AMG 4MATIC | 31 | $121,100 | AWD | 5.5L 550 hp V8 |
| GL 350 BlueTEC | 18 | $64,550 | AWD | 3.0L 240 hp V6 Diesel |
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from August 27, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
Overview
The newest and largest SUV from Mercedes-Benz, the GL-Class made its debut in 2006, receiving overall positive reviews from drivers and critics. Originally, the automaker's plan was that the full-size GL would replace the G-Class in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. At the time, the boxy, military-oriented G-Class had just celebrated its 25th anniversary and was showing signs of its age. In fact, the GL's name was intended to be a tribute to the legendary G-Class, continuing the tradition of a capable SUV, but offering drivers a more luxurious and contemporary package.
However, due to public demand as well as a number of still-existing long-term military contracts, Mercedes-Benz reversed its decision and decided to continue to produce the G-Class through at least the end of the decade and possibly beyond. It also decided to retain the GL nomenclature for its new full-size SUV, resulting in potential confusion in the minds of some drivers.
One look at the two SUVs, though, and that confusion should disappear. While the G-Class still displays its squarish, functional, military-like exterior design, which dates back to the 1970s, the new GL-Class exudes a much more fluid, aerodynamic, and contemporary exterior appearance, with a hunky front end and a swept-back roofline. Still, some drivers think the GL looks too squarish, although it's not nearly as pronounced as on the G-Class.
The GL-Class comes with the most extensive list of standard features of any Mercedes SUV, offering an upscale alternative to buyers who consider the M-Class SUV to be too small or under-equipped, and the R-Class crossover SUV to be too sedan- or wagon-like. Drivers can choose from three engines, including a fuel-efficient 215-horsepower diesel engine (the GL 320 CDI), a 335-horsepower V8 (the GL 450), or a 382-horsepower V8 (the GL 550, which joined the lineup in 2008 as a replacement for the GL500).
All three trims come standard with 4MATIC all-wheel-drive, as well as such features as four-wheel electronic traction control, an Electronic Stability Program, a seven-speed automatic transmission, antilock brakes, and four-wheel air suspension, which automatically adjusts depending on passenger and cargo weight. Other features include Downhill Speed Regulation, which manages the throttle and brakes to ensure safe driving on steep slopes, and Hill Assist, which prevents rollback when the driver switches between the brake and gas pedals on steep uphill or downhill grades.
Inside, the GL-Class comes well-equipped with such features as a multifunction steering wheel, power-adjustable heated front seats, bird's-eye maple or Burl Walnut wood trim, dual-zone climate control, and window-curtain airbags. The high-end GL 550 trim adds heated rear seats, leather upholstery, and a wood-and-leather steering wheel.
