2007-2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Mercedes-Benz's newest sport-utility vehicle was essentially a stretched version of its midsize five-passenger ML-Class wagon. Both used car-type construction, but the GL seated seven, weighed some 500 pounds more, had more towing capacity, and offered more available off-road equipment. First up was the GL450 with a 335-horsepower V8 engine and seven-speed automatic transmission, with steering-wheel controls for manual operation. All-wheel drive was standard. An optional off-road package added low-range gearing plus locking center and rear differentials, and allowed up to 2 inches of additional ground clearance. During the 2007 model year, Mercedes-Benz launched a GL320 CDI with a 215-horsepower turbodiesel V6 engine. Antilock braking, traction/antiskid control, hill ascent and descent control, and a height-adjustable suspension were standard. So were front side airbags and curtain side airbags that covered all seating rows and included rollover deployment. Options included leather upholstery, a navigation system, DVD entertainment, front and rear obstacle detection, and keyless ignition. Also available were steering-linked xenon headlights, and Mercedes' Adaptive Damping suspension that included driver-selectable firmness settings. Gasoline-engine GL-Class rivals included the Audi Q7 and Cadillac Escalade.