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.

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Securing cargo
Plastic hooks (Sedan) On vehicles without a through-loading feature in the rear bench seat, six plastic hooks are installed to the trunk floor. Cargo tie-down rings Observe the following note ...

Automatic locking feature
The vehicle locks automatically when the ignition is switched on and the wheels of the vehicle are turning at a speed of more than 9 mph (15 km/h). You could therefore be locked out when: - ...

Instruction labels for tires and loads
WARNING   Do not overload the tires by exceeding the specified load limit as indicated on the Tire and Loading Information placard on the driver's door B-pillar. Overloading the tires c ...