2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is the GL 320 BlueTEC, which replaces the GL 320 CDI with a cleaner diesel sold in all 50 states. This is otherwise a light update, with improved standard cabin tech and added occupant protection rather than a redesign.
About the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
1st generation X164 GL-Class (2007-2012), third model year, pre-refresh year before the 2010 styling update.
Mercedes-Benz pitched the GL-Class as a full-size 7-passenger SUV that delivered Mercedes comfort and craftsmanship without the truck-like feel of many rivals. Its core appeal was adult-friendly three-row seating, long-distance comfort, strong towing ability, and standard all-wheel drive, wrapped in a cleaner, less flashy design than many American luxury SUVs of the time. In short, it was the big family-and-road-trip Mercedes, aimed at buyers who wanted size and capability with a more polished on-road feel.
The 2009 GL-Class is a seven-seat luxury SUV offered in three distinct forms: the torque-focused GL 320 BlueTEC diesel, the V8-powered GL 450, and the more luxurious GL 550. All have all-wheel drive and a power-folding third row, while the GL 550 stands out with leather, navigation, a rearview camera, and 21-inch wheels.
What changed, by category
2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 4.6 Liter | V8, 5.5 Liter | V6, Turbo Diesel, 3.0L |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd Overdrive | Auto, 7-Spd Overdrive | Auto, 7-Spd Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Diesel |
| MPG City | 13 mpg | 13 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 18 mpg | 17 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 382 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 339 lb-ft | 391 lb-ft | 398 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7500 lb | 7500 lb | 7500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 83.3 cu-ft | 83.3 cu-ft | 83.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.2 in | 34.2 in | 34.2 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Headlights | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| HID Headlights | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Power Close Liftgate/Trunk | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Side Steps | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| 115V Power Outlet | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Rear Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||
| Memory Front Seats | |||
| Memory Steering Wheel | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Tri-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class redesigned?
No. The 2009 GL-Class remains part of the first generation and keeps the same body and chassis. Its updates center on the BlueTEC diesel, standard PRE-SAFE protection, and an improved COMAND media system.
What replaced the GL 320 CDI for 2009?
The GL 320 BlueTEC replaced the GL 320 CDI for 2009. It uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V6 and cleaner emissions technology that makes it legal for sale in all 50 states.
What safety feature became standard on the 2009 GL-Class?
PRE-SAFE became standard across the 2009 GL-Class lineup. It prepares the cabin and occupants when the vehicle detects that a collision may be about to happen.
What technology changed in the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class?
The standard COMAND system was upgraded for 2009 with a 6.5-inch display, Bluetooth, an SD-card reader, an auxiliary input, and an in-dash six-disc DVD/CD changer.
Is the 2009 GL-Class meaningfully different from the 2008 model?
Yes, but the differences are modest. The 2009 model brings the cleaner GL 320 BlueTEC diesel, makes PRE-SAFE standard, and updates the COMAND media system; its body and chassis carry over.