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:
Level control
Important safety notes
Level control adapts the vehicle level
automatically to the current operating and
driving situation. This results in reduced fuel
consumption and improved handling.
If y ...
Adding engine oil
WARNING
If engine oil comes into contact with hot
engine parts, it may ignite and you could burn
yourself. Do not spill any engine oil on hot
engine parts.
Environmental note
When adding ...
Switching on Night View Assist Plus
Depending on your vehicle's date of
manufacture, the or
symbol for
the "Automatic driving lights/daytime
running lamps" position is located on the light
switch.
You can only ac ...