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Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is a full-size, three-row luxury SUV with seating for seven. It is known for its smooth air-suspension ride, polished cabin, strong towing ability, and engine range spanning diesel models through high-performance AMG V8 power.
The GL-Class was Mercedes-Benz’s family-sized luxury SUV before it was renamed GLS for 2017. Across both generations, it paired genuine three-row space with a more carlike feel than traditional truck-based SUVs. Its defining theme was breadth: daily comfort, road-trip space, towing capability, and engines ranging from a torque-rich diesel to powerful V8s.
Strengths
- All three rows are meant for regular use, with seating for seven rather than a token third row.
- The standard air suspension gives the GL-Class the smooth, composed ride that defines its luxury character.
- It combines its large size with more carlike road manners than traditional truck-based rivals.
- Towing capacity reached 7,500 pounds for the 2016 lineup, making it useful for substantial trailers.
- The broad engine range lets used shoppers prioritize diesel efficiency, gas power, or AMG performance.
- The 2016 model offered nearly 94 cubic feet of cargo room, giving families useful space when the rear seats were folded.
Who it's for
It best fits families who need a real third row but still want a quiet, premium SUV for commuting and long trips. It also suits shoppers who tow and want a more comfortable, polished alternative to a traditional truck-based SUV.
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class lineup
Pick the GL 350 BlueTEC if diesel fuel economy and strong low-speed pulling power matter most. The GL 450 is the more conventional gas-powered family choice, and its engine changed from a V8 to a twin-turbo V6 for 2015. Step up to the GL 550 for a more premium, stronger V8 version of the same three-row formula. Since 2013, the GL 63 AMG has served as the performance model, with substantially more power and a sportier character than the rest of the lineup.
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class generations
From 2009 to 2016, the GL-Class spans two generations. The current 2nd Generation — X166 arrived for 2013, following the 1st Generation — X164 (2007–2012).
2nd Generation — X166 (2013–2016)
The second-generation GL-Class grew roomier and gained revised engines, more technology, and added safety features. It kept three-row seating and standard all-wheel drive, while the GL63 AMG brought a performance version to the range.
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2016
A carryover year and the final GL-Class before the 2017 rename and light refresh to GLS.
2015
The GL450 replaced its V8 with a 362-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6. Gasoline models also gained an engine stop-start system.
2014
Minor feature updates included a split-view infotainment display and heated and cooled cupholders in an option package.
2013New generation
A full redesign brought a larger cabin, more cargo room, revised engines, more standard technology, added safety features, and the new GL63 AMG.
1st Generation — X164 (2007–2012)
The original GL-Class established the model as a large three-row SUV with standard all-wheel drive and an air suspension. Diesel and V8 engines were offered, and a light 2010 refresh updated its styling, cabin details, and safety equipment.
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2012Trim changes
LED daytime running lights became standard, along with minor cabin updates.
2011Trim changes
Blind Spot Assist was added, the rear head restraints were revised, and the GL550 received a different front bumper.
2010Mid-cycle update
A light refresh updated exterior and interior details, added a post-collision safety system, and renamed the diesel model GL350 BlueTEC with slightly more torque.
2009Trim changes
The GL320 BlueTEC replaced the GL320 CDI with a cleaner diesel engine. The infotainment and occupant-protection systems were also updated.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of vehicle is the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class?
The GL-Class is a full-size luxury SUV with three rows and seating for seven. It combines a roomy family cabin with standard all-wheel drive, an air-suspension ride, strong towing ability, and either diesel or gasoline power.
Does the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class have a usable third row?
Yes. The GL-Class was designed as a genuine seven-passenger SUV, not just a two-row vehicle with occasional extra seats. It also has a power-folding third row, which makes switching between passenger and cargo space easier.
What is the GL-Class known for?
The GL-Class is known for combining real three-row room with a smooth air-suspension ride and more carlike road manners than many truck-based SUVs. Its other strengths include a polished cabin, strong engines, and towing capability.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class good for towing and hauling cargo?
Yes. The latest GL-Class lineup covered here has a maximum towing rating of 7,500 pounds and up to 93.8 cubic feet of cargo room. The diesel is especially suited to relaxed pulling because it produces strong power at low engine speeds.
Who is the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class a good fit for?
It suits families who need seven seats, road-trip comfort, all-weather traction, and useful towing strength without moving to a truck-based SUV. The broad engine range also works for shoppers focused on long-distance travel, luxury, or performance.
Is the GL-Class the same vehicle as the Mercedes-Benz GLS?
The GLS is the GL-Class under its later name. The second-generation X166 GL ran from 2013 through 2016, then received a light refresh and became the GLS for 2017. Earlier GL models belong to the first-generation X164 family.
Does the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class come with a diesel engine?
Yes. Diesel models were sold as the GL 320 BlueTEC and later the GL 350 BlueTEC. Their turbo-diesel V6 emphasizes highway range, lower fuel use, and strong low-speed pulling rather than the quicker acceleration of the gasoline V8 and AMG models.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class a hybrid?
No. The GL-Class models covered here use diesel or gasoline engines. The lineup ranges from a turbo-diesel V6 to gasoline V6 and V8 engines, including the high-performance AMG V8.
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Reviews
What owners are saying about the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class.
4.3
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
(250 reviews)
“Vehicle comfortable seats 7, the 3rd row is functional with plenty of leg room. I like the diesel engine, it's fun to drive and is more efficient then a gasoline engine. Being higher up in the SUV vs. the sedan I previously drove gives me better visibility when driving.”
“Satisfied with the GL450. I do think traditional shifter re transmission will result in lower maintenance costs over time.”
“We love this family SUV. Just beware it is a diesel engine, you might hit some issues (DPF) down the road but other than that it is rock-solid, comfortable and provides the best ride quality you can find for the money. Oh, and fuel economy too!”
“Should be better discussion of how Embrace and Sirius Radio subscriptions are transferred from old vehicle to new vehicle.”
“The GL 450 is exactly what my family needed. Plenty of room for people and pets. The ride is wonderful and the vehicle is quite powerful. We took it skiing a few weeks ago and it handled snow and ice really well. Definitely a step up from my older ML350. Loving the car so far.”