2011 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Review
Let's face it: If you're smitten by Mercedes' GL-Class full-size SUV, the recent run-up in prices at the pump probably rates somewhere between insignificant and unimportant in your car search. With seating for seven, the GL-Class is a big SUV — and it gulps fuel like one. Even the most efficient version, the GL350 Bluetec diesel we tested, manages just an EPA-estimated 17/21 mpg city/highway. Likely more important to you would be a comfortable ride with commanding views, space for the family and all their stuff, and a level of luxury to justify a $60,000-plus base price.
While the GL350 Bluetec diesel delivers the cushy ride, a combination of limited interior space and some irritating qualities weigh on this already-heavy SUV.
In models where both gas and diesel engines are available, the diesel is typically more expensive. In the GL-Class, however, the diesel GL350 Bluetec, with its $60,950 starting price, is the most affordable trim in the lineup. (Two V-8-powered gas models — the GL450 and GL550 — are more expensive.) Optional features pushed the price of our tester to $72,135. For a side-by-side comparison of the three trims, all of which have all-wheel drive, click here.
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Selecting a station
You can select an HD Radio station in the
same way as selecting a standard FM radio
station. After setting an HD Radio frequency,
you will briefly hear the analog station until
the digital dat ...
Collision warning
If a vehicle is detected in the monitoring range
of Blind Spot Assist and you switch on the turn
signal, a double warning tone sounds. Red
warning lamp 1 flashes. If the turn signal
remains on, de ...
Even more agile: sports suspension and Dynamic Handling package as an option
In addition to the standard-specification AGILITY CONTROL suspension, the
C‑Class offers two other options for adjusting the suspension's characteristics
in line with drivers' personal prefe ...