2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Review
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Review
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Used GL-Class for sale
Appraise This CarMercedes-Benz GL-Class model years
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class types
- SUV
- Diesel
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Strong acceleration from V8 engines, turbodiesel V6 gets gas mileage in the 20s, quiet and elegant interior, many available luxury amenities, comfortable seating, excellent craftsmanship.
Cons
- Ride quality may be floaty for some, second row does not adjust fore and aft, GL550's full load of features jacks up the price.
What’s new
A range-topping GL550 is added to the Mercedes GL-Class line for 2008. In addition to its larger 382-horsepower V8, the GL550 is differentiated from the GL430 and GL320 CDI by its more in-your-face grille, fender flares and 21-inch wheels.
Edmunds says
Classier and more refined than other vehicles in its segment, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class further sets itself apart by driving much smaller than it is and costing much less than you'd expect.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL320 CDI 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 7A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.96 per gallon for diesel in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$239/mo for GL-Class GL320 CDI
GL-Class GL320 CDI
vs
$254/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Vehicle overview
Not all full-size luxury SUV shoppers are looking to show off their ride to the envious masses on some trendy, club-ridden strip of road. Many are, but plenty are just searching for a vehicle with a plush interior, room for seven, a powerful engine and prestigious image that doesn't require 22-inch rims and twin subwoofers the size of a Barcalounger. For these more rational shoppers, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is the best of the bunch.
Introduced last year, the GL450 and diesel-powered GL320 CDI took home Edmunds.com's Editors' Most Wanted award for SUVs priced above $45,000. With its attractive blend of passenger space, cargo capacity, capable on- and off-road performance and plenty of attractive features at a reasonable price, the GL set itself apart from full-sizers like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. We were also impressed by the GL450's powerful 4.6-liter V8, which delivered quick acceleration times that bettered the competition.
For 2008, a new trim level, the GL550, arrives. Powered by the same engine that resides in Mercedes' flagship S550 sedan, the new range-topping GL has the power to nip at the heels of more sporting luxury utes like the Range Rover Supercharged and BMW X5 4.8i while still seating six adults in comfort. Stuffed full of all the GL450's optional packages, the 550's price climbs to almost $80,000 -- a very exclusive club indeed. For that price, though, buyers at least get some visual distinction with fender flares, 21-inch AMG wheels and a revised front fascia with a bigger grille and a three-pointed star so large it practically screams, "Achtung! Ich bin ein Mercedes!"
The most intriguing model in the GL-Class line is the GL320 CDI. The letters refer to the turbocharged, 3.0-liter diesel engine under its hood, which like other diesel-powered vehicles, provides massive low-end response and superior fuel mileage versus its gasoline counterparts. The 320 isn't nearly as quick as the GL450, but it's strong around town and powerful enough for most families. Plus, it's $2,500 cheaper than the identically equipped 450 and its 26.4-gallon fuel tank results in a 700-mile range. Of course, bad thoughts linger from the clattering, smoky oil-burners from the 1970s and '80s, but today's diesels are quiet, not the least bit stinky and very clean. Not quite clean enough for the GL320 to meet the incredibly strict emissions standards of California and the Northeast, but 2009's GL-Class Bluetec diesel will be 50-state certified.
In the rarefied, often ostentatious, air of large luxury SUVs, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class manages to present itself with a touch of class. Its mechanical sophistication, unit-body construction and superior craftsmanship also set it apart from other seven-passenger full-sizers, while the 450 and 320 CDI ring in at a price that undercuts a similarly equipped Escalade and other models in the segment. Plus, with available 21-inch wheels, Logic7 sound system and Mercedes' street cred, the GL will still work out just fine for those who want to do plenty of club cruisin'.
Performance & mpg
Each model within the GL-Class has its own engine, but all come with a seven-speed automatic and 4Matic all-wheel drive. The GL450 is powered by a 4.7-liter V8 that makes 335 hp and 339 pound-feet of torque. When fitted with the optional Enhanced Off-Road Package, the GL450 gains center and rear locking differentials, a two-speed transfer case with low-range gearing, and underbody skid plates.
In performance testing, we found the GL450 capable of hitting 60 mph in a quick 6.7 seconds. EPA fuel economy estimates for 2008 are 13 mpg city/18 mpg highway. The GL320 CDI is powered by a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6. Like all diesels, horsepower is low and torque is high, with 215 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque. Diesels also tend to get better fuel economy, and the GL320 gets an impressive 18/24 mpg rating. Because of their more stringent emissions standards, the GL320 CDI is not sold in several states, including California, New York and Vermont.
The GL550 is powered by a 5.5-liter V8 that produces 382 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque.
Safety
Standard safety features on the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class include stability control, antilock brakes, whiplash-reducing front headrests, first- and second-row side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags with an integrated rollover sensor. Hill start assist, hill-descent control and TeleAid are also included. Buyers of the GL450 and GL320 CDI wanting a rearview camera, and front and rear parking sensors should note that they are only available as part of the Premium Package. These items are standard on the GL550.
Driving
Even with its 4.7-liter V8, the Mercedes-Benz GL450 was the muscle car of its class -- and the new GL550 raises the bar even higher. Either gasoline-V8-powered GL is quicker to 60 mph than any other large SUV we've tested, including the Audi Q7 4.2 and Cadillac Escalade. The large Benz is also quiet on the highway, with minimal wind and road noise. Although the diesel GL320 CDI isn't going to break any acceleration records, passing and merging maneuvers come easily, as the seven-speed automatic transmission does an exemplary job of keeping the engine in the meat of its power band. In addition, the GL320's V6 is so quiet and refined you're scarcely aware it's actually a diesel.
Some drivers might find the Mercedes GL's handling to be a bit wallowy -- this isn't a truck you toss around for the sheer joy of it. But the ride and handling compromise is acceptable, and the GL's steering, although a bit slow, is nicely weighted and never numb.
Interior
The GL's cabin is well-appointed and a comfortable place to be. Fit and finish is as it should be, seat comfort is exceptional, and headroom and legroom are ample for most positions. The second row could benefit from being able to move fore and aft, as it can get tight with taller occupants seated up front. Nice touches include a one-touch up and down function for all four windows and flush-folding rear headrests to improve the driver's rearward vision (an innovation missing on Benz's R-Class). Third-row access is also well thought out. With the second- and third-row seats lowered, 83 cubic feet of cargo volume is available, which is much smaller than full-size luxury SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade but on par with vehicles like the Acura MDX.
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class models
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is a large luxury SUV available in three models that each seat seven passengers. The GL450 and GL320 CDI are equipped identically, save for their powertrains. Standard equipment includes 18-inch wheels, "MB-Tex" cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, power front seats with heat, a power split-folding third-row seat, the COMAND electronics interface and an eight-speaker audio system with glovebox-mounted six-CD changer and auxiliary audio input.
The pricey Premium I Package includes front seat memory functions, a power steering column, a power liftgate, a sunroof, a navigation system with a rearview camera, parking sensors and a Harman Kardon Logic7 sound system with satellite radio. The Premium II Package includes all of the Premium I equipment, plus three-zone climate control (also available as a stand-alone option), rear air-conditioning and adaptive bi-xenon headlamps. The Heating Package adds a heated steering wheel and rear seats, while the Full-Leather Package upgrades the already well-crafted interior.
The GL550 includes all of the above equipment as standard and adds 21-inch wheels and unique exterior styling details. Stand-alone options on the GL450 and GL320 CDI include adaptive cruise control and keyless ignition, while all GL-Class models can be equipped with a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and an iPod integration kit. The Enhanced Off-Road Package is available on the GL450 only.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
2 out of 5 stars2/5Average
#18 out of 20 among Luxury Fullsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class from 2008-2022.$902/yr
vs. $735/yr
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).2.66x/yr
vs. 1.83x/yr
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).18.1%
vs. 16.5%
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV
for Average Luxury Fullsize SUV
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class.
5 star(60%)
4 star(25%)
3 star(4%)
2 star(6%)
1 star(5%)
65 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.88 out of 5 stars
Mercedes GL 320 CDI
Ed Jette, 07/20/2010
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL320 CDI 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 7A)
I bought the 2008 MB GL CDI used with 14K miles on it. I have 50K on it now. I bought 4 Blizzak snow tires for it and it makes it go through any conditions like a tank. I had the air suspension replaced under warranty by MB. No other problems. On a ski trip to Vermont one night got down to -10 degrees. Failed to start without putting in a bottle of 911 diesel fuel treatment. … Started right up after that with no more problems. What a ride, 2 adults, 5 kids loaded to the hilt with a roof rack and still got 23 miles per gallon.
3.88 out of 5 stars
A Real Dog
chazzjr, 10/07/2010
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL320 CDI 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 7A)
Always thought I would have it made when I could afford to buy a MB. Well after 25 months and 9 repair trips not including 5 service trips, I traded the dog on a GMC. If this vehicle would have run well I would have kept it but it did not. Small things like senors, computer software and large things like new rack and pinion steering and power steering pump were just too much. Beware … of your warranty's end. Repairs are very expensive and time consuming. In discussing the issues with the MB reps in USA and Germany, I found that they were more concerned about themselves than the problems I was having.
2 out of 5 stars
So many problems!
curtiscavalier, 12/04/2017
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
Bought the car for $12000, spent over 10000 to fix it in just a year! There are way too many problems. I thought the part would be good quality, but nope, it breaks easily! I have spent way too much money into fixing this car! There are always problems! I had a misfire after 3 months of owning this car, and then struct, and then the coolant was leaking, and then oil leak, and then air … suspension then the power steering.
4.88 out of 5 stars
Need a Slush Fund to own this one!
GL320 Owner, 08/21/2009
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL320 CDI 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 7A)
CONS: A MB service tech told me 18 months after I purchased my GL320 that you need a slush fund keep this car on the road, addition to the already known cost due to regular service maintenance. Oh...how he was right! I have had the air-suspension module replaced twice. Tires-they are only good for 20-30,000 miles and at $1200 for a set of four it gets expensive, and let me just add there … are only two tires to pick from-the Continentals and the Pirellis. Windshield-twice now at $989.00. I love the Bluetooth while driving, however it disconnects when the car is turned off and the door is opened. Then you cant use your phone for about another 5 mins while its still disconnecting.
2008 GL-Class Highlights
SUV
GL320 CDI
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $53,400 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Diesel |
Combined MPG | 20 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $239/month |
Seating | 7 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 14.3 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the GL-Class include:
- Back-up camera
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
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