2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: Road Test
2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class ▼
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- MSRP: $58,200 - $81,300
- Invoice: $54,126 - $75,609
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Our road test for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class help you decide if a 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| GL320 BlueTEC | GL450 | GL550 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 7 | 5.8 |
Both V8s deliver effortless thrust, and while the GL550 has more punch, the GL450 is plenty strong for any task.
The 320 BlueTEC can feel slightly lethargic off the line, and some testers want quicker highway passing response, but its turbodiesel V-6 never feels underpowered. All engines benefit from a smooth, alert automatic transmission.
FUEL ECONOMY
| GL320 BlueTEC | GL450 | GL550 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 3 | 3 | 2.5 |
In Consumer Guide testing, GL320s averaged a frugal 20.7-22.2 mpg with slightly more highway driving than city use. A GL450 averaged 16.4 mpg in an even mix of city/highway driving. No opportunity to measure the GL550. The V8s require premium-grade gas, and the BlueTEC is emissions-legal in all 50 states.
RIDE QUALITY
| GL320 BlueTEC | GL450 | GL550 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 6.2 |
All GL models are composed for the most part, but they can't absorb sharp ridges without some jarring. GL450 has standard 19-inch wheels; GL320 has 20s and GL550 has 21s. All are stable at speed.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| GL320 BlueTEC | GL450 | GL550 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.1 |
Steering is accurate and direct. The GL550, however, tends to tramline along channels in the road and can skitter sideways in bumpy corners, compromising the sure-footed security of the other GLs. In fast turns on smooth surfaces, the GL550 has tenacious grip and relatively little body lean, but all GLs stay flatter in corners than most large SUVs. One test GL450 had a mushy brake-pedal feel.
QUIETNESS
| GL320 BlueTEC | GL450 | GL550 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7 | 6.9 |
These are among the quietest large SUVs. The GL550 has more tire noise than other GLs, and its exhaust note is prominent, but even the diesel is quiet at cruise. Wind rush is particularly well controlled.
CONTROLS
| GL320 BlueTEC | GL450 | GL550 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
Gauges are large and easy to read. Most controls are logically placed, but some have cryptic markings and the navigation system absorbs most audio functions, complicating their use. Gear shifting is via a short steering-column lever with a toggling action that takes some getting used to, but the design frees up lots of space in the center console area.
DETAILS
| GL320 BlueTEC | GL450 | GL550 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.6 |
High-quality materials, including standard real-wood trim, give the cabin a premium feel, though leather upholstery is standard only on the GL550. Controls adjust with a weighted, precise feel.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| GL320 BlueTEC | GL450 | GL550 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8.6 |
There's ample headroom and legroom, and the seats are supportive and generously sized. Some testers say the cabin doesn't feel notably spacious for a vehicle this size, though. Entry and exit are easy via large doors and a no-stress step-in height. Outward visibility is good, but larger mirrors would aid lane changing.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| GL320 BlueTEC | GL450 | GL550 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.1 |
Outboard passengers have ample headroom and legroom and good seat support. But a relatively narrow cabin and low-hanging ceiling vents limit the center position to occasional use. Smaller adults fit in the third row, but only kids will be happy there on a long trip. Only the right-side section of the 2nd-row bench seat slides forward for 3rd-row access, though it does create a large passageway.
CARGO ROOM
| GL320 BlueTEC | GL450 | GL550 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 8.5 |
Just a few grocery bags fit behind the 3rd row. A low floor height and 2nd- and 3rd-row seatbacks that fold flush with the deck ease loading and unloading. Relatively tight dimensions limit overall volume, however, and the rounded hatch opening limits cargo-item size. Numerous cabin storage areas, but none are generously sized.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| GL320 BlueTEC | GL450 | GL550 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 9 | 7 | 5.3 |
The GL-Class doesn't have the sheer interior volume of some premium large SUVs, but accommodations are more than adequate for the majority of buyers. Relatively trim exterior dimensions ease parking and maneuverability, too. Any GL is a Best Buy that offers impressive power and high levels of refinement. Don't overlook the diesel GL320 BlueTEC--it's the least expensive model, yet is plenty powerful and remarkably frugal.
Total Score
| GL320 BlueTEC | GL450 | GL550 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 76 | 74 | 71 | 68.5 |
Total Score: 74
Scores for all Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicles
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