The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class represented the pinnacle of luxury SUVs, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and versatility. This model year featured three distinct variants, each catering to different preferences and performance needs: the GL350 BlueTEC, GL450 4MATIC, and GL550 4MATIC. These models shared a foundation of luxury and spaciousness, while differing significantly in their powertrains and performance characteristics. This overview delves into the specifications of each model, providing a detailed comparison for automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers interested in the 2010 Mercedes-Benz lineup.
2010 GL-Class Model Variants: GL350 BlueTEC, GL450 4MATIC, and GL550 4MATIC
Mercedes-Benz offered the 2010 GL-Class in three primary trims, each signified by its engine and intended performance level. All models were built as four-door, seven-passenger luxury sport utility vehicles with a steel unibody chassis, ensuring robustness and passenger safety.
Engine and Performance Specifications
The heart of each GL-Class model differed significantly, defining its performance and driving dynamics.
GL350 BlueTEC Engine Details
The GL350 BlueTEC was equipped with a 2,987cc 72-degree V6 diesel engine. Constructed with an aluminum block and head, it featured a single overhead camshaft per cylinder bank and four valves per cylinder. This engine delivered 210 horsepower at 3,800 rpm and a substantial 400 lb-ft of torque between 1,600 and 2,800 rpm. The diesel powerplant incorporated a turbocharger and intercooler, along with piezoelectric injectors for enhanced fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Its compression ratio stood at 16.5:1, with a maximum engine speed of 4,500 rpm.
GL450 4MATIC Engine Details
Stepping up in power, the GL450 4MATIC featured a 4,663cc 90-degree V8 gasoline engine, also with an aluminum block and head. This engine utilized a double overhead camshaft per cylinder bank and four valves per cylinder. It generated 335 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 339 lb-ft of torque between 2,700 and 5,000 rpm. The GL450’s engine included a two-stage resonance intake manifold and tumble flaps, optimizing air intake for improved performance. Its compression ratio was 10.7:1, and it could reach a maximum engine speed of 6,500 rpm.
GL550 4MATIC Engine Details
The top-tier GL550 4MATIC boasted a larger 5,461cc 90-degree V8 gasoline engine, mirroring the GL450 in its aluminum block and head construction, double overhead camshafts, and four valves per cylinder. This engine produced a robust 382 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 391 lb-ft of torque from 2,800 to 4,800 rpm. Like the GL450, it featured a two-stage resonance intake manifold. The GL550 also had a 10.7:1 compression ratio and a maximum engine speed of 6,500 rpm.
Transmission and Drivetrain
All 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class models utilized a seven-speed automatic transmission with Direct Select shift controls. The gear ratios were consistent across all three models, ensuring smooth and responsive shifting.
| Gear Ratio | Value |
|---|---|
| 1 | 4.38:1 |
| 2 | 2.86:1 |
| 3 | 1.92:1 |
| 4 | 1.37:1 |
| 5 | 1.00:1 |
| 6 | 0.82:1 |
| 7 | 0.73:1 |
| R | -3.42:1 |
| R2 “comfort mode” | -2.23:1 |
The final drive ratio differed slightly between the GL350 (3.45;1) and the GL450/GL550 (3.70;1). All models were equipped with ESP stability control and 4MATIC All Wheel Drive, enhanced by 4ETS traction control with brake and throttle intervention, providing confident handling in various driving conditions.
Chassis, Suspension, and Steering
The 2010 GL-Class models shared a sophisticated four-wheel independent suspension system with Airmatic. The front suspension was a double control arm design with air springs, gas shocks, and a stabilizer bar, while the rear featured a four-link setup with similar components. Steering was speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion, offering a balanced feel between responsiveness and ease of maneuverability. The steering ratio was 18.6:1 across all models, with 3.62 turns lock-to-lock and a turning radius of 39.7 feet.
Dimensions and Weight
The exterior dimensions of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class were uniform across the models, emphasizing its spacious design.
| Dimension | Value (in./mm) |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 121.1 / 3,075 |
| Length | 200.6 / 5,088 |
| Width (mirrors folded) | 76.4 |
| Height | 72.4 |
| Ground clearance | 7.8 |
| Track Front | 65.0 / 1,651 |
| Track Rear | 65.1 / 1,654 |
Curb weight varied slightly, with the GL350 at 5,423 lbs, GL450 at 5,346 lbs, and GL550 at 5,545 lbs.
Interior Dimensions and Capacities
Inside, the 2010 GL-Class offered generous space for passengers and cargo. Headroom in the front was 40.1 inches, 40.6 inches in the second row, and 38.2 inches in the third row. Legroom measured 40.3 inches in the front, 39.5 inches in the second row, and 34.2 inches in the third row. Shoulder room was 58.3 inches in the front, 58.9 inches in the second row, and 50.5 inches in the third row. Cargo volume with the back row up was 14.3 cubic feet, expanding to 43.8 cubic feet with the back row down. The fuel tank capacity was 26.4 gallons, with a 3.4-gallon reserve. The GL350 BlueTEC also featured an 8.5-gallon AdBlue tank.
Brakes and Wheels
All 2010 GL-Class models were equipped with hydraulic power-assisted 4-wheel vented disc brakes, featuring four-channel ABS anti-lock, Brake Assist, and electronic brake proportioning. Front disc diameter was 14.7 inches (375mm) ventilated, and rear disc diameter was 13.0 inches (330mm) ventilated.
Wheel sizes varied by model:
| Model | Front Wheels | Rear Wheels | Front Tires | Rear Tires |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GL350 | 8.5 x 20 in | 8.5 x 20 in | 275 / 50 R 20 | 275 / 50 R 20 |
| GL450 | 8.5 x 19 in | 8.5 x 19 in | 275 / 55 R 19 | 275 / 55 R 19 |
| GL550 | 10 x 21 in | 10 x 21 in | 295 / 40 R 21 | 295 / 40 R 21 |
Performance Metrics
Performance varied across the range, reflecting the engine differences. The GL550 4MATIC was the quickest, achieving 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds, followed by the GL450 4MATIC at 6.9 seconds. The GL350 BlueTEC’s 0-60 mph time was to be determined. Top speed was electronically limited to 130 mph for all models. Fuel economy varied significantly, with the GL350 BlueTEC offering the best figures at 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, while the GL450 and GL550 both rated at 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway.
Conclusion
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class stood as a testament to luxury and capability in the SUV segment. With three distinct models, it catered to a broad spectrum of buyers, from those prioritizing fuel efficiency in the GL350 BlueTEC to those seeking powerful performance in the GL550 4MATIC. Each model maintained Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to quality, comfort, and advanced engineering, making the 2010 GL-Class a sought-after vehicle in the pre-owned market and a benchmark for luxury SUVs of its era.
