2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Review

Last year, Mercedes-Benz introduced the seven-seat GL-Class, an SUV that will inevitably find its way into the sort of neighborhoods where one Banana Republic just isn't enough. For 2008, Mercedes has added a rip-roaring GL550, whose steep price tag moves the lineup (which also includes the GL450 and diesel GL320 CDI) into Range Rover territory.

I spent a week ripping and roaring in a GL550, and my conclusions are mixed. The SUV's inconsistent acceleration obstructs an otherwise impressive driving experience, and issues with visibility and control usability sour the well-tailored cabin. Most troubling, though, is the GL's poor reliability record, which is tempered only by the fact that its competitors don't fare much better. The Benz has enough strengths that it might prove a worthy family-hauler, but be sure to consider its limitations before you buy.

See also:

Automatic interior lighting control
•► To switch on/off: press the button. When the automatic interior lighting control is activated, the button is flush with the overhead control panel. The interior lighting automatically ...

Floormat on the driver's side
WARNING   Whenever you are using a floormat, make sure there is enough clearance and that the floormat is securely fastened. The floormat should always be securely fastened using the fa ...

Opening/closing automatically fromoutside
Important safety notes WARNING   Make sure the tailgate is closed when the engine is running and while driving. Among other dangers, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) gases may enter vehicle ...