Under the Hood

Adapted from the engine in the automaker’s S-Class sedan and SL-Class roadster, the all-aluminum, 5.0-liter V-8 in the G500 produces 292 horsepower and 336 pounds-feet of torque. Each engine cylinder uses a three-valve twin-spark setup. An electronically controlled five-speed-automatic transmission sends the power to a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a Low range, which is fully synchronized for shift-on-the-fly operation at up to 15 mph. Mercedes-Benz’s Electronic Stability Program is also installed.

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    Exterior & Styling
    Particularly from the rear, the GL's appearance looks a bit like Mercedes' original M-Class — so much so that a passenger walked up to an older M thinking it was the GL. The GL550's 21-inch wheels ...

    Important safety notes
    WARNING To help avoid personal injury during a collision or sudden maneuver, exercise care when storing objects in the vehicle. Put luggage or cargo in the trunk if possible. Do not pile lug ...

    Cleaning the plastic trim
    WARNING When cleaning the steering wheel boss and dashboard, do not use cockpit sprays or cleaning agents containing solvents. Cleaning agents containing solvents cause the surface to become ...