2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Review
With a 23-mpg diesel version now available in all 50 states, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is a more viable option for SUV-needing families — though the appeal of a $60,000-plus four-wheeler seems limited in today's economy. Even if you are in the market, the GL remains a debatable choice: stylish on the outside and elegant within, but hamstrung by spotty reliability and a drivetrain as indecisive as the North Carolina electorate.
Still, that's more praise than I can give last year's model, whose review serves as the basis for this update; its dated navigation system was onerous to sort through, but it's been vastly improved for 2009. The SUV also gets more high-tech safety features, though they might just be gilding the lily on a model that already had nine standard airbags and an electronic stability system.
Trim levels include the diesel GL320 Bluetec and gasoline GL450 and GL550; click here to compare them or here to compare the whole group to its '08 equivalents. I drove a 2009 GL320 Bluetec, and I've also driven a 2008 GL550.
See also:
M-Class in the Market
It's a bitter pill for a reviewer to swallow when you see a test car do so
many things so right, yet fall short in a few key areas. Most shoppers — even
most car reviewers — won't get to spend as ...
Checking the coolant level
Only check the coolant level when the vehicle
is on a level surface and the engine has cooled
down.
– Turn the SmartKey to position
2 (Y page 139) in the ignition lock.
On vehicles with KEYLES ...
Cup holder in the rear seat armrest
Do not sit on or support your body weight on the rear seat armrest when it
is folded down, as you could otherwise damage it.
Close the cup holder before folding the rear seat armrest up. Othe ...