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:

Important safety notes
Consult an authorized Mercedes-Benz Center if you require information on approved and recommended tires and wheels for summer and winter operation. Advice on purchasing and caring for tires is ...

Important safety notes
Your vehicle may be equipped with a sliding sunroof or a panorama roof with power tilt/sliding panel. In the following section, the term "sliding sunroof" refers to both types of sli ...

Removing and installing the cover in the front wheel arch
You must remove the cover from the front wheel housing before you can change the front bulbs. - To remove: switch off the lights. - Turn the front wheels inwards. - Slide up cover 1  and ...