Mercedes-Benz GL450 Introduced for 2007, the seven-passenger GL450 is well suited for both carpooling and off-roading. Unlike most 4x4s, it's built on a reinforced unibody structure that affords more of a car-like feel on pavement than the truck-based competition. Be aware, however, that you'll need to specify the $2,200 Off-Road Package to maximize ground clearance and off-road prowess. A 4.6-liter V8 engine is rated at a hearty 335 hp and comes mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission.
Not all full-size luxury SUV shoppers are looking to show off their ride to the envious masses on some trendy, club-ridden strip of road. Many are, but plenty are just searching for a vehicle with a plush interior, room for seven, a powerful engine and prestigious image that doesn't require 22-inch rims and twin subwoofers the size of a Barcalounger. For these more rational shoppers, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is the best of the bunch.
Introduced last year, the GL450 and diesel-powered GL320 CDI took home Edmunds.com's Editors' Most Wanted award for SUVs priced above $45,000. With its attractive blend of passenger space, cargo capacity, capable on- and off-road performance and plenty of attractive features at a reasonable price, the GL set itself apart from full-sizers like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. We were also impressed by the GL450's powerful 4.6-liter V8, which delivered quick acceleration times that bettered the competition.
For 2008, a new trim level, the GL550, arrives. Powered by the same engine that resides in Mercedes' flagship S550 sedan, the new range-topping GL has the power to nip at the heels of more sporting luxury utes like the Range Rover Supercharged and BMW X5 4.8i while still seating six adults in comfort. Stuffed full of all the GL450's optional packages, the 550's price climbs to almost $80,000 -- a very exclusive club indeed. For that price, though, buyers at least get some visual distinction with fender flares, 21-inch AMG wheels and a revised front fascia with a bigger grille and a three-pointed star so large it practically screams, "Achtung! Ich bin ein Mercedes!"
