For those seeking a full-size luxury SUV that prioritizes substance over showiness, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class emerges as a compelling option. While some luxury SUV buyers are drawn to vehicles that command attention on city streets, many others value a refined interior, ample space for passengers and cargo, a robust engine, and the prestige of a respected brand without unnecessary flamboyance. For these discerning and practical buyers, the 2008 Mercedes Gl450 stands out as a top contender in its class.
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, including the GL450 and the diesel GL320 CDI, was recognized as Edmunds.com’s Editors’ Most Wanted for SUVs over $45,000 in its debut year. This award highlighted the GL’s successful combination of passenger room, generous cargo capacity, impressive performance both on and off the road, and a wealth of desirable features offered at a competitive price point. The GL effectively distinguished itself from rivals like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator by offering a more balanced and sophisticated package. Specifically, the 2008 Mercedes GL450 impressed with its potent 4.6-liter V8 engine, delivering acceleration that surpassed its competitors and provided a confident driving experience.
In 2008, Mercedes-Benz expanded the GL-Class lineup with the introduction of the GL550 trim. This new flagship model borrowed its engine from the prestigious Mercedes-Benz S550 sedan, granting it the power to rival sportier luxury SUVs such as the Range Rover Supercharged and BMW X5 4.8i, all while maintaining comfortable seating for up to six adults. Equipped with all the optional features available on the GL450, the GL550 reached a price point approaching $80,000, placing it in a truly exclusive segment. This premium price, however, included visual enhancements like fender flares, striking 21-inch AMG wheels, and a redesigned front fascia featuring a larger grille and an oversized three-pointed star emblem, clearly announcing its Mercedes-Benz pedigree.
Within the GL-Class range, the GL320 CDI model presents an especially intriguing choice. The “CDI” designation signifies its turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel engine, which, characteristic of diesel powertrains, delivers substantial low-end torque and superior fuel efficiency compared to gasoline engines. While the GL320 CDI is not as quick as the 2008 Mercedes GL450, it offers ample power for daily driving and sufficient performance for most families’ needs. Furthermore, it comes with a price tag approximately $2,500 lower than a comparably equipped GL450, and its large 26.4-gallon fuel tank provides an impressive driving range of up to 700 miles. Although older diesel vehicles might be associated with noise and emissions, modern diesels like the one in the GL320 CDI are remarkably quiet, clean, and free from unpleasant odors. While the GL320 CDI initially did not meet the stringent emissions standards in California and the Northeast, Mercedes-Benz addressed this with the upcoming 2009 GL-Class Bluetec diesel, which achieved 50-state certification.
In the often-exaggerated realm of large luxury SUVs, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL450 and the entire GL-Class family manage to project an air of understated elegance and class. Its sophisticated engineering, unit-body construction, and high-quality craftsmanship distinguish it from many other seven-passenger full-size SUVs. Moreover, the GL450 and GL320 CDI models are offered at prices that are notably competitive, often undercutting similarly equipped Cadillac Escalade and other vehicles in the segment. For buyers who desire both refinement and a touch of flair, the GL-Class also offers options like 21-inch wheels and a premium Logic7 sound system, ensuring it can still confidently participate in the luxury SUV scene.
