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Summary
The full-size Mercedes-Benz GL-Class SUVs are larger than the mid-size M-Class. The GL provides more car-like dynamics than the traditional, full-size, body-on-frame SUVs from other automakers, yet can tow big trailers.NewCarTestDrive.com contributor Larry Edsall filed this report from California's Napa Valley.
(Source: New Cars Test Drive)
Model Line Overview
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Model Lineup:
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Mercedes-Benz GL320 BlueTEC ($59,075); GL450 ($60,075); GL550 ($82,175) |
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Engines:
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5.5-liter dohc 32-valve V8 |
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Transmissions:
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7-speed automatic |
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Saftey Equipment (standard):
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three-point safety belts for all seating positions, front airbags, side airbags for first two rows and curtain airbags for all three rows, active front head restraints, four-wheel electronic traction control, Electronic Stability Program, anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist Plus, LATCH tethers for child safety seats |
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Saftey Equipment (optional):
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Parktronic, bi-xenon headlamps with active cornering, Distronic active cruise control, rear-view camera |
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Basic Warranty:
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4 years/50,000 miles |
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Assembled In:
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Tuscaloosa, Alabama |
Specifications As Tested
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Model Tested (MSRP):
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Mercedes-Benz GL550 ($82,175) |
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Standard Equipment:
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full leather trim, power and heated front seats, burl walnut interior trim, easy-fold second-row heated seat, power folding third-row seat, heated mirrors, three-zone climate control, bi-xenon headlamps with curve-following, infrared-reflective glass, power tilt/telescoping steering column with multi-function controls on steering wheel, navigation, rear-view camera, Parktronic, HomeLink, cruise control, 11-speaker audio with CD player and auxiliary jack for external devices, four reading lights, cup holders for each row, retractable cargo cover, rear stationary sunroof with shade, Keyless go |
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Options As Tested (MSRP):
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Rear-seat entertainment ($1,850), trailer hitch ($530) |
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Destination Charge:
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875 |
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Gas Guzzler Tax:
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Price As Tested (MSRP):
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85430 |
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Layout:
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four-wheel drive |
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Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
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382 @ 6000 |
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Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
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391 @ 2800-4800 |
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Transmission:
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7-speed automatic |
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EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
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13/17 |
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Wheelbase:
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121.1 |
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Length/width/height:
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200.6/76.4/72.4 |
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Track, f/r:
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65.0/65.1 |
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Turning circle:
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39.7 |
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Seating capacity:
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7 |
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Head/hip/leg room, f:
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40.1/NA/40.3 |
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Head/hip/leg room, m:
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40.6/NA/39.5 |
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Head/hip/leg room, r:
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38.2/NA/34.2 |
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Cargo volume:
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83.3 |
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Payload:
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Towing capacity:
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Suspension, f:
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independent, upper and lower control arms, air springs, gas-charged shock absorbers, anti-roll bar |
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Suspension, r:
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independent, four-link, air springs, gas-charged shock absorbers, anti-roll bar |
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Ground clearance:
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7.8 |
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Curb weight:
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5434 |
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Tires:
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295/40HR21 |
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Brakes, f/r:
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vented disc/vented disc with ABS, ESP, traction control, Brake Assist |
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Fuel capacity:
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26.4 |
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