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Used 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class SUV Consumer Reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
30 reviews

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Pros
Cons
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)
45 of 49 people found this review helpful

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.

Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
2 out of 5 stars
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4.88 out of 5 stars

Love this vehicle!

summergirl, 03/24/2008
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful

Having owned 2 different Lexus SUVs and liking them, I can honestly say that this MB GL 470 is by far the best vehicle I've owned. Just the right size for me. Not big, but roomy; not small, but manageable. It's a gorgeous vehicle, great sound system, incredible grade of leather, lacks nothing. Better on mileage than the Lexus GX I previously owned. It's solid and handsome. I travel to my son's home once a month, which is a 450 mile each way trip and I could not be more comfortable. I absolutely love this car. Cannot recommend it enough!

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4 out of 5 stars

Bang for your money

Stephen Belanger, 12/04/2019
updated 06/06/2022
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful

08 450 GL, bought with 98K miles now have 141k. I changed ALL fluids myself and had to replace all four air suspension (rebuilt struts myself) at a cost of $280.00. This is one of the best vehicles I have ever had. The ride is very stable and feels as safe as a vehicle can get. The navigation package is a little complicated, but if you spend the time to learn it has some great features. Overall performance is outstanding at any speed. Ownership cost is a little higher, well worth it !!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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4.25 out of 5 stars

It's not that bad if you're previous car was a Range Rover:)

swfreeride, 03/28/2012
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
40 of 47 people found this review helpful

Trust me when I say all European luxury SUV's have these kinds of issues. My previous car was a Range Rover HSE and a V8 Tuareg before that. Both had multiple air suspension issues, engine oil leaks, sensor failures, steering column replacements, etc... Friends with X5's don't fair well either. My RR even needed a drive shaft replacement. Fact of life unfortunately, if you want the luxury and style of the Euro SUV's the price you pay is well beyond the window sticker. The key is to enjoying the vehicle is pick the brand with a nearby dealership that treats you well and expect to spend your free time there:) - I tried the Lexus route for a year, just too bland and predictable.

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5 out of 5 stars

Best for tall people

Tall One, 01/03/2010
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful

Finally a vehicle for folks over 6'3" tall.I am 6'8" tall and this is the only vehicle that even came close to comfortable all things considered. No sedan was even close. Great mileage and is the fastest vehicle 0-60 that I or any of my friends have ever seen. 20K miles so far. Tires are still good.Only problem was a fuel sensor to replace. We are leasing this one. Plan to buy a 2010 with P2 package. The gas version leaves the diesel version in the dust {respectfully]Power lift gate is great for wife.

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5 out of 5 stars

I traded my 2007 GL450 for '08 GL550

hbmciver, 12/15/2008
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL550 4dr SUV AWD (5.5L 8cyl 7A)
14 of 16 people found this review helpful

Best decision I made; to upgrade to the GL550. Unless something else comes on the market I can't imagine owning anything else. The MB GL550 has it all, comfort, quality inside and out! I'll trade in 2010 if there are upgrades, otherwise my '08 actually gets better gas mileage hwy than it's rated for. I get 19-21 mpg, and the smoothest ride imaginable!

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4 out of 5 stars

MY Girl GL

Tony, 05/16/2018
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful

Its a big SUV but no AC in the Very REAR of Car and no AC Heat Controls for 2nd row

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.38 out of 5 stars

Bigger is Better

Gerry R., 07/23/2008
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful

This SUV is rock solid yet handles very well for a full size vehicle. The interior is very comfortable and cabin noise is very minimal. If you need seating for 7 this is the flagship vehicle. Vastly superior to the Audi Q7, Burban, mini-vans or anything else for that matter. If you want people mover, the search is over. I came out of a 2006 GM product that thought the service center was it's second home. Mercedes exudes quality and the dealership personnel treat you better. Quality does not cost, quality pays.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

A gas guzzler, but oh it's so sweet!

fusiondave, 02/26/2008
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Just had it for about 3 weeks now, and it's so sweet to drive! The exterior styling is gorgeous & although it is a big car, it doesn't look like it. Gas mileage is averaging about 15MPG, but hey, I guess I knew what I was getting into from the getgo. The V8 engine is very quiet, and it seems to be more than adequate to be able to handle the 7000lb weight without any problem. Compared to the X5 I used to drive, it's a little mushy in handling, but it still a joy. The 3rd row seat is great for my kids (the real reason for my purchase). The seats are comfortable all around, and there's plenty of interior space.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

GL 550 Refined And Exilerating

Gary Case, 09/19/2007
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL550 4dr SUV AWD (5.5L 8cyl 7A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

This car has a duo personality, smooth and refined around town; yet exilerating on the open road. The ulta wide 21 inch tires complement the suspension dynamics to make it handle like a BMW x5 with out the punishing ride. When you are on a Sunday drive with the family, they'll never realize there is 380 horses under the hood.

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1 out of 5 stars

Beautiful Lemon

Unhappy Mercedes owner , 06/20/2020
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Constant repairs on little and big things. It’s been a disaster since I bought it and I can’t wait to trade it in. Power steering, air suspension, air lifts

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3.38 out of 5 stars

Good looks - Inferior Quality Electronic

ChildsPlay, 10/15/2010
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful

My spouse & I both own SUVs. He drives a Lexus GX470 and I the GL450. The GL450 is a competent vehicle with ample cargo capacity for transporting our large dogs & medical equip. However, I have had to make numerous trips to the dealership to remedy electronic and suspension issues. I do feel very safe inside the vehicle. However, I must admit that my husband's Lexus seems to handle the snow better than my GL and his vehicle has been completely problem free. I have trepidations regarding the cost of maintaining and repairing this vehicle once the warranty expires. The Navigation system and bluetooth integration are vastly inferior to the Lexus.

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5 out of 5 stars

In love with my GL

Mb lover, 05/01/2008
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful

We came across the Gl450 looking at the R350. My GL, which was stickered at 70,000 was equiped with pk1 package, keyless go, 2 dual DVD players, trailer hitch, ipod integration kit and 19'' inch wheel package. The GL which gets a 11,000( base price) premium over the R , it's totally beautiful in the exteror is worth it ( although interior dimensions are a bit tighter.) In love with my GL.

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3.75 out of 5 stars

Not so happy with my GL450

TEaves, 01/07/2010
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful

I haven't been as satisfied with this Mercedes purchase. I've had the car in the shop over 18 times since I bought it for various annoyances including the pump that raises the vehicle on difficult terrain, the hatch latch, the motion/obstacle sensor system, etc. The leather interior stains easily, even from picking up color from clothing. And the customer service at Mercedes Benz could care less so I'll be moving on to something else after I get a few kids off to college.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

The Best SUV I've ever owned

jluna, 12/17/2007
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Leave it to MB. They hit the nail on the head with this car. I wanted the CDI, but it is not yet available in California. After having owned a Range Rover, a 4Runner and a Cayenne, I can say this is the best SUV out there. If not for the 911 Porsche, probably the best car out there.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Great SUV

nycdriver, 07/21/2008
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I picked up my GL450 in June 2008 and it drives terrific. Smooth, quiet, and comfortable ride. It's really quite incredible. Feels solid but not overly large. Now for the cons - terrible fuel mileage (averaging 11 mpg in NYC), it's a big truck so the drive isn't as sporty as my BMW SUV's.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Super Truck

A.C., 07/27/2009
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL550 4dr SUV AWD (5.5L 8cyl 7A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Great performance, acceleration, handling etc. Considering its weight and size mileage is suprisingly good. usually 18MPG+ on the highway driving at 70+ MPH. ------------------------------------ - It has been fixed now but the rear hatch would sometimes open without any input from the remote.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Excellent Car!

Mom2Boys, 11/29/2007
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL550 4dr SUV AWD (5.5L 8cyl 7A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I have had the car for about a month and could not be happier. I have had a couple of Navigators and looked at it again before buying the GL 550 - there was no comparison. Quite simply, this is the best driving car I have ever owned or driven.

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5 out of 5 stars

Mercedes owner

Frank, 02/18/2023
updated 02/26/2024
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Great car for 15 yrs but expensive maintenance maintenance and repair costs.Still own car.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

GL450

terp97, 05/19/2008
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful

This GL is awesome. It rides so smooth the transmission is flawless. I really do feel like I'm in a G500 jet or something. Great acceleration when needed.

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4 out of 5 stars

OK vehicle but stupid option packages

mssurrey, 08/17/2007
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
3 of 5 people found this review helpful

The vehicles is similar to the ML in design, especially the interior which is an almost exact copy og the smaller ML class. The most annoying thing are the options packages (only two or three to choose from). In order to get memory seats, I had to spend thousands of dollars on a Premium package with many features I simply didn't want or need such as a sunroof and a Nav system (have my own Garmin unit) At a time when many manufacturers are increasing options, Mercedes have bundled everything together so that the only option you now have is basically 'Take it or leave it'. How ridiculous

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Awesome suv

ceezeeman, 07/08/2008
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL550 4dr SUV AWD (5.5L 8cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This is a great truck. Looks great, well built, fun to drive. But it is an suv, not a luxury sedan and handles accordingly.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Vehicle for me

Darlene Taylor, 09/11/2007
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

The driving experience has been wonderful. The vehicle holds to the road and basically drives itself. The sensors are an added feature that certainly gives a peace of mind related to safety.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Nice Ride

Satisfied, 01/09/2009
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

Drive it and you'll likely buy it. It must be the best riding SUV on the market, bar none. Love the Airmatic suspension as it really soaks up the rough roads in PA. Speaking of rough roads, not one rattle. Love that. Have only owned for 1 month, but so far the love affair continues. The 19" Continentals are a bit noisier than the 18" standard Michelins, but this is a very very quiet car. And by car, I mean smooth riding SUV. Very satisfied.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

2008 gl450

DAWN, 05/31/2008
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful

I am a previous LX470 owner and I have to say there really is no SUV that compares to this car for comfort and the ride and the third row seating. I can't wait to get in my car every day and drive it! Although the nav doesn't compare to Lexus ease of use and the DVD is in a weird location for usage. I also did not realize that the non-leather seats are a bit sticky in the heat due to the fact of no ac in them. The ac works great and the stereo is better than my Lexus. The windshield wiper controls are hidden and hard to see. I kept hitting the cruise control for the first month, now I am used to it. I have never had a Mercedes so all the controls take some getting used to.

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4 out of 5 stars

Gl 450 Major problems

tnance, 11/22/2008
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
1 of 5 people found this review helpful

I purchased the Gl 450 4.7 Ltr about 1 year ago. It has spent over 2.5-3 months at the dealership while attempting to fix electronic problems. While driving the vehicle it would surge and then the warning lights would start lighting up like Christmas. The lights warned of the following failures ABS, Air bags to many to name they were all on. Then a big red box on the led would state drive to the dealership immediatly without shifting gears, how you do that in an automatic I'm still trying to figure out. We live in an isolated state with few roads and long distances between help. My faith in the Gl is gone! Hope no one else has experienced this. It still looks nice parked in my garage.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

I hate getting out of it.

BlackNBlue, 09/16/2007
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL450 4dr SUV AWD (4.7L 8cyl 7A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have driven this car for two weeks and I am as excited as a kid with a new bike. I find it hard to stop and get out of it. The gadget factor is huge but all useful and user friendly.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Our first Mercedes-Benz

KBKBDB, 08/25/2008
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL550 4dr SUV AWD (5.5L 8cyl 7A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

So far, so good. We were in the market for a SUV. Test drove the Acura MDX, BMW X5 4.8i, and the GL. We were impressed by all three vehicles but ultimately the GL was the way to go--truly appreciate the usable third row seats.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Let It Ride

W-4-550, 09/09/2007
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL550 4dr SUV AWD (5.5L 8cyl 7A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

This is a truck of excess. All options basically included and it's a pleasure to drive. Also stands out against the GL 450. So just get this truck and "let it ride".

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4 out of 5 stars

08 mb gl550

Stephen Buha, 10/31/2016
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class GL550 4dr SUV AWD (5.5L 8cyl 7A)
0 of 17 people found this review helpful

78,000 miles

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