Buyers looking for something a bit more civilized than the truck-like G-Class, should consider the full-size GL-Class. It's built on a rigid, car-like platform for a better ride. Three rows of seats (the third one stows electrically) accommodate seven passengers in comfort. The GL320 CDI is powered by a 215-hp V6 diesel, delivering exceptional fuel economy for a big SUV; or you can order the GL450 with a 335-hp V8. Both models offer standard four-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic transmission.
Over the past decade, the increasingly popular large-luxury-SUV segment has been dominated by vehicles from American and Japanese automakers. Now, Mercedes has joined the world of the big, the bold and the beautiful with its all-new Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, which ushers in a new level of luxury, style and performance.
Initially planned to replace the comparatively ancient and crude, yet extremely capable, military-sourced G-Class (a.k.a. the Gelandewagen, which soldiers on), the GL320 CDI, GL450 and GL550 sport-utility vehicles are built at Mercedes' Tuscaloosa, Alabama, plant alongside the midsize M-Class SUV and R-Class luxury wagon.
The big advantage the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class has over its smaller midsize brother is its extra length and capacity behind the rear seats. It's about as long as its primary American competition, but with a longer wheelbase and more svelte dimensions. And while most competitors feature a heavier-duty, truck-based body-on-frame design, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class takes the more sophisticated route with a carlike unibody architecture to maximize ride comfort and on-road agility.
What Mercedes has accomplished with its world-class GL-Class remains impressive. We believe the GL-Class is a very viable and possible top choice in the large-luxury-SUV segment. 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 look for the three-pointed-star and check out Mercedes' new GL-Class.
