Big GL-Class thinks small
Mercedes-Benz has been one of the most prolific truck makers in history, and one of its prized possessions on the passenger-vehicle side, was the Geländewagen.
North America didn't really get the Geländewagen (literally, cross-country vehicle) as it was basically referred to as the G-Class by the time it crossed the ocean, but we probably lucked out and got the really good, updated models.
Because the G-Class was basically meant as an army vehicle, there arose a need to create a more passenger-friendly model for everyday motorists. In a manner of thinking very similar to what GM experienced in creating the Hummer H2, that's what Mercedes aimed for in creating the GL-Class of 2006.
Although it doesn't look it, the new GL is slightly larger on the outside than its "G" ancestor, though the latter boasts better interior room dimensions. The "G" does live on as a more upscale SUV powered only by V8 engines (the regular G500 and a performance tuned G55 AMG), whereas the GL450 uses a smaller, more powerful V8 than the G500, and also gets a GL320 powered by a 3.0 turbodiesel V6.
Power to burnRich in bottom end torque (it makes close to 400 lbs.ft before the needle even touches 2000 rpm), the GL320 is capable of accelerating better than many sports coupes. A 7-speed automatic transmission means more efficient higher-end cruising, with the ability to tap into that torque at the whim of the driver's right foot. The column mounted shifter is easy to thumb around between the three main vehicle actions (go forth, go back, stay here).
However, take things leisurely and you can explore one of the other characteristics of the engine -- the incredible fuel economy. As with most diesels, fuel economy and range is amazing. We managed to sip 10.4 litres per 100 km over 423 km of equally divided city/highway motoring. That's pretty impressive for a vehicle that weighs nearly 2,500 kg.
Smooth and quiet inside
The diesel sound is not too overwhelming in the cabin, but there's no mistaking it as the GL320 passes by on the street. Mind you nothing is too overwhelming in the cabin. In typically Mercedes fashion, there's a fair amount of attention paid to technological innovation, but everything is presented in a conservative manner.
The dash is geometrically arrayed with the round vents up top mirrored below in the temperature dials of the dual-zone climate control system, as well as the instrument cluster. It's all nicely surrounded in chrome, wood and leather.
The only nit to pick is the large screen of the instrument panel which looks as if you should be able to control things by touching the screen, when in fact you have to push buttons arrayed on either side of it.
Once you get used to it, it works very well, but the first instinct is always to touch the screen. The radio presets are set up in a push-button-phone grid, and have the ability to call up a station by punching in the station's call-letters.
The seats continue to be some of the most comfortable and supportive in the world, as is customary for Mercedes models. I don't know how much time Mercedes designers and engineers spend studying body patterns, but they always come up with upright and flat-faced seats that look as if they were derived from church pews, but support the back and backside wonderfully and absorb just about any shock that may wedge its way into the cabin.
The middle seats are easy to get into and out of, though manipulating them in order to get to the rear seats could stand to be better and create a large opening. Once in, though, there are plenty of amenities, including map lights and rear climate controls, as well as heated rear seats. The rear seats go down really easy at the push of a button, which is a good thing since cargo space with the seats upright is far from spacious (as are most 3-row sport-utes, in our experience ... except for Suburbans, but then you're into bus territory).
Like riding on air
It all makes for a very smooth and even ride. The truck takes all bumps and ruts in stride without the common pitchiness for which SUVs are known. The reason is a fully independent front wishbone and rear multi-link set-up and a standard AIRMATIC air suspension that always keeps things on the level (even when towing a trailer).
And though the new GL may look too precious for off-road applications, it does show off its "G"-ness when taking on the road less traveled. The 4MATIC permanent 4-wheel drive system combines with traction aids such as anti-lock brakes and ESP stability control to keep the truck moving forward regardless. Also available, there are things to let it ascend and descend hills more surely. Direct, well-assisted steering make it precise to control and a tight turning circle allows it to ease in, around and out of tight confines.
Overall, this is the type of SUV expected from an upscale maker ... it's comfortable as a luxury sedan on the road and handles off-road challenges without feeling like an off-roader. The bonus is that it's well proportioned to look and act like a vehicle half its size.
Summary
Test vehicle: 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL320 CDI
Price range: $69,500 to $84,625
Test model price: $74,700 (before taxes)
Options: Premium Package ($5,200) that includes power front passenger seat, memory package with tilt/telescoping steering wheel, rear audio controls, navigation system, COMMAND APS, Harman/kardon LOCIC 7 surround sound, 6-CD changer, heated rear seats and power tailgate.
Fuel economy: 10.4 litres per 100 km (combined over 422.6 km)
Freight: $1,795
Basic warranty: 4 years/80,000 km
Competition: Acura MDX; Audi Q7; BMW X5; Buick Enclave; Cadillac Escalade; Chevrolet Tahoe; Chrysler Aspen; Ford Explorer: GMC Yukon; Hummer H2; Mazda CX-9; Porsche Cayenne; Range Rover; Saab 9-7X; Saturn Outlook.
Strengths:
- Excellent fuel economy
- Quiet, smooth ride
- Good manoeuvrability
- Comfortable seating
Weaknesses:
- Nothing noteworthy
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