2007 Mercedes-Benz GL450

For 2007, Mercedes offers the GL in two models, GL450 with a powerful 335-horsepower V8, and also the GL320 CDI with a 224-horse diesel V6. While a fuel-thrifty diesel does sound interesting, because of their strict emission laws, the GL320 CDI will not be sold in California, Maine, Massachusetts, New York or Vermont. Well, who are we to leave out five of our most favorite states? We tested the GL450.

Styling

If at first glance you mistake the GL for ML—especially from the front—we don't blame you. To create the GL, Mercedes added a 6.4-inch longer wheelbase and stretched the ML just under a foot. We do have to say they did it with some style, and the squared-off, longer rear end gives the GL a rakish look that looks crisp and European, rather than the more bling-oriented domestics. Dressed in its rich Platinum Metallic, our tester was pure understated class.


Which is not to say plain. Our GL did come with the Appearance Package and, along with such useful gear as roof rail crossbars and front and rear skid plates, it has 19-inch 5-twin-spoke alloy wheels that are among the most handsome wheels we've seen on any SUV.


Although we were pleased with the design, we wondered, with the added size, had the GL lost some of the Euro sport sedan experience that we liked so much in the ML? All we can say is: bring those driving gloves. The fun starts in the GL with a powerful 4.7-liter V8 that kicks out 335 horsepower and, more importantly, it's maximum 339 lb.-ft. of torque at just 2,700 rpm. Thanks in part to a 7-speed automatic that makes sure there's always a gear where you need it, the GL450 flies to 60 mph in well under 7 seconds, making it easily the fastest of the big SUVs. Adding to the fun are steering wheel mounted shift buttons, so you can have Formula 1 fantasies when you're not ferrying around the family.

Handling

Handling is excellent too, with nice responsive steering with great road feel and a buttery ride. You find yourself zipping around then you look in the rear view mirror and see that entire vehicle behind you, and it's a real shocker—it's easy to think you're in a sport sedan. If you're not an enthusiast, you'll still appreciate the big Benz's wonderful overall feeling of security, stability and control.