Mercedes GL Class
Mercedes' full-size, three-row SUV — a genuine alternative to the Range Rover and Cadillac Escalade with real off-road-derived engineering underneath.
The GL-Class launched in 2006 as Mercedes' answer to the growing full-size luxury SUV segment, sharing its platform and much of its engineering with the contemporary M-Class and the Dodge/Jeep-adjacent GL550's driveline heritage, while offering genuine three-row seating and real towing capability alongside luxury-SUV comfort.
History
The first generation (X164, 2006–12) established the GL-Class as a genuine full-size alternative to the Range Rover and Cadillac Escalade, with air suspension and available AMG performance variants bringing real capability across a wide range of buyer priorities.
The second generation (X166, 2012–16) refined the formula with updated styling and technology before Mercedes renamed the nameplate GLS for 2017 onward, aligning it with the brand's newer SUV naming convention (GLA/GLC/GLE/GLS).
Notable Versions
GL550 / GL63 AMG
The V8 flagship and AMG-tuned performance variants, offering significantly more power than the base six-cylinder models.
GL350 BlueTEC (diesel)
A diesel-powered variant offering significantly better towing torque and highway range than the gas six-cylinder option.
What to Look for When Buying
Key inspection points from experienced collectors.
Air suspension is a known, expensive maintenance item
Air struts and compressors on these SUVs can fail with age — a pre-purchase inspection specifically checking suspension function is worthwhile.
Confirm service history, especially for AMG variants
These are complex, electronics-heavy SUVs — a documented maintenance history matters more here than on a simpler classic.
Third-row usability varies by generation
Confirm the specific configuration and condition of the third-row seating if that's a priority for your intended use.
Quick Specs
- Engine options
- 3.0L–5.5L V6/V8, AMG-tuned V8 variants
- Horsepower
- 210–550 hp (AMG variants)
- Seating
- Up to 7 (three rows)
- Transmission
- 7-spd automatic
- Drivetrain
- 4MATIC AWD (standard)
Market Price Guide
Approximate USA asking prices
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