Mercedes Benz GL 450/GL 320 CDI 2007
January 1, 2007
Buyers of full-size SUVs can scarcely complain that they have not had enough models to choose from, so we greeted the new GL-class with a yawn. It turns out that the GL is a very good vehicle, one that emphasizes comfort, convenience, and safety rather than flash. This is one of the few Mercedes models without an AMG version. The cabin is one of Mercedes-Benz’s better recent efforts, and its roomy third-row seat is relatively easy to access. With seven occupants up, cargo space is reduced to only 14.3 cubic feet behind the rearmost seat; fold it down, and capacity triples to 43.8 cubic feet. Unlike some of its competitors, the GL is not available with second-row captain’s chairs, but Mercedes does offer that feature in its R-class people mover. The turbodiesel engine in the new GL320 CDI is quiet, torquey, and fuel-efficient, but it’s not nearly as sprightly as the standard V-8 powertrain, which blends creamy smoothness with responsiveness.
PRICE: $55,675 (GL450); N/A (GL 320 CDI)
ENGINE: 4.7-liter V-8 (GL450); 3.0-liter V-8 Deisel (GL320CDI)
TRANSMISSION: 7-speed automatic (both)
POWER: 335 hp at 6,000 rpm (GL450); 306 hp at 3,600 rpm
TORQUE: 339 ft lbs at 2,700 rpm (GL450); 376 ft lbs at 1,600 rpm (GL 320
CDI)
CURB WEIGHT: 5,249 pounds (GL450): 5,200 pounds (GL320 CDI)
0-60 MPH: 7.4 seconds
TOP SPEED: 130 mph (limited)
PROS: Roomy, responsive SUV with a great interior
CONS: Vague brake-pedal feel
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