Mercedes Benz GL-Class Review
Published: 8th November 2008
Mercedes Benz GL-Class Review
When Mercedes Benz first talked about the new GL-Class we were hoping for a replacement for the aging but most revered of all four-wheel drives, the Mercedes Benz G-Wagen. The G-Wagen or as it was later renamed the G-Class came into being in the late 1970’s. It was initially designed as a military vehicle but eventually saw active civilian service, becoming something of a style icon especially within the music scene. But it also faired well as a practical and very capable 4 wheel-drive and is considered unbeatable by off-roading enthusiasts.
Instead of replacing the G-Glass, the Mercedes Benz GL-Glass was designed for a different market, from the outset it was intended to be a luxury four-wheel drive capable of carrying 7 people in comfort competing with the Range Rover, the Audi Q7 and also its stable mates the Mercedes- Benz R-Class and M-Class.
Built in the United Sates at the Tuscaloosa, Alabama plant, the Mercedes Benz GL-Class was designed to go off road with locking differentials, airmatic suspension capable of lifting the car over minor obstacles and a low ratio gearbox.
We decided to test the Mercedes Benz GL-Class against its nearest serious rival the Range Rover TDV8 Vogue.
Mercedes Benz GL-Class Review Road Test Data | |
| Model Reviewed | Mercedes Benz GL 420 CDI |
| Body Type | 4x4 |
| Colour | Obsidian Black |
| Performance ~ manufacturers figures | |
| 0 - 62 mph | 7.6 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 143 mph |
| Transmission | 7G-Tronic 7-Speed Automatic Gearbox |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Economy ~ manufacturers figures | |
| Urban | 18.1 mpg |
| Extra Urban | 30.7 mpg |
| Combined | 24.4 mpg |
| Insurance Group | 20A |
| Euro NCAP Rating | TBA |
| Warranty | 3 Years / Unlimited Mileage |
| Price when tested on the 08/11/08 | £63,642.44 |
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