“Two complaints. Space in the back seats is limited if the front seats are pushed back. Access to the rear cargo space from the back can be tough if you are short. A step would be a help.”
2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is the GL450’s switch from a V8 to a 362-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6. This is a focused powertrain update rather than a redesign, and all gasoline models also gain an automatic engine stop/start system.
About the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
2nd generation GL-Class (X166, 2013-2016), third model year before the later GLS rename/facelift.
The 2015 GL-Class is Mercedes-Benz’s largest three-row SUV of this period: a full-size family vehicle built to feel more like a luxury sedan than a truck-based SUV. Mercedes markets it around roomy seating for seven, a genuinely usable third row, a quiet upscale cabin, strong towing and road-trip ability, and standard air suspension with all-wheel drive. Its edge over many rivals is the mix of big-SUV space with a smoother ride, richer interior, and a wider spread of powertrains from diesel to AMG performance.
The 2015 GL-Class is a three-row luxury SUV with standard all-wheel drive, self-leveling air suspension and a power-folding third row. The diesel GL350 emphasizes highway range and strong low-speed pulling power, while the GL450 serves as the balanced middle model. The GL550 keeps a 429-hp V8, and the 550-hp GL63 AMG combines seven-seat space with performance-focused suspension and transmission tuning.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The GL450 replaces its previous V8 with a 362-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6. Its city fuel economy rises from 14 to 17 mpg and its highway rating rises from 19 to 21 mpg. The GL450, GL550 and GL63 AMG also gain an automatic engine stop/start system to reduce fuel use while idling.
Tech
A smartphone interface becomes standard on the GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 after being optional for 2014. The tilt-adjustable steering wheel moves from standard to optional on those two trims.
2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, TT, 5.5L | V6, TT, 3.0L | V8, TT, 4.7L | V6, Turbo Dsl, 3.0L |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd SPEEDSHIFT | Auto, 7-Spd 7G-Tronic+ | Auto, 7-Spd 7G-Tronic+ | Auto, 7-Spd 7G-Tronic+ |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Diesel |
| MPG City | 13 mpg | 17 mpg | 13 mpg | 19 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 17 mpg | 21 mpg | 18 mpg | 26 mpg |
| Horsepower | 550 hp | 362 hp | 429 hp | 240 hp |
| Torque | 560 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft | 516 lb-ft | 455 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7500 lb | 7500 lb | 7500 lb | 7500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 93.8 cu-ft | 93.8 cu-ft | 93.8 cu-ft | 93.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35 in | 35 in | 35 in | 35 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Adaptive Headlights | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors with Auto Brake | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| 360 Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Side Steps | ||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| SD Card Slot | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Massage Front Seat | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Memory Front Seats | ||||
| Memory Steering Wheel | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | ||||
| Tri-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class?
The biggest change is the GL450’s new 362-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6, which replaces the previous V8. The rest of the GL-Class receives only limited equipment and powertrain updates.
Does the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL450 have a V8?
No. The 2015 GL450 uses a 362-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 instead of the V8 fitted to the 2014 model. The GL550 and GL63 AMG retain V8 engines.
Was the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class redesigned for 2015?
No. The 2015 GL-Class remains part of the second generation introduced for 2013, with the same basic body, cabin layout and core chassis hardware. Its updates center on the GL450 engine and a few equipment changes.
Which 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class models have automatic engine stop/start?
The gasoline-powered GL450, GL550 and GL63 AMG have automatic engine stop/start for 2015. The diesel GL350 BlueTEC does not receive this gasoline-engine update.
What equipment changed on the 2015 GL350 BlueTEC and GL450?
A smartphone interface becomes standard on the 2015 GL350 BlueTEC and GL450, while the tilt-adjustable steering wheel changes from standard to optional on both trims.
2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class.
4.3
2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
(179 reviews)
“Should be better discussion of how Embrace and Sirius Radio subscriptions are transferred from old vehicle to new vehicle.”
“The technology is a definite letdown. I am able to use Google maps and Google search much easier and quicker than the COMAND system.”