Instrumented Test
If the immediate success of the first ML-class in the late ’90s weren’t enough to justify Mercedes’ decision to start selling SUVs, the introduction of the larger, three-row GL-class for 2007 would have done the trick. Combining most of the practicality of a Chevy Suburban with the refinement of a Range Rover, the GL quickly racked up two consecutive C/D 5Best Trucks awards, a comparison-test win, and underwent a 40,000-mile long-term test, quickly becoming one of our favorite luxury workhorses.
The second-gen GL arrives for 2013 with a nip here and a tuck there, as well as a host of equipment updates that keep it Mercedes’ most capable and opulent family hauler. Despite its Alabama roots—like all Merc SUVs, it’s assembled in Tuscaloosa—the big German retains its ancestral accent, especially when outfitted with the 3.0-liter V-6 turbo-diesel found in our GL350 test vehicle.
East Bound and Down
Whereas gas-powered GLs now feature twin-turbo V-8s with up to 550 hp, the 2013 BlueTec’s diesel V-6 makes do with a modest 240 (30 more than before). More important, the new model gains 55 lb-ft of torque, now boasting 455 at 1600 rpm. We’re glad the extra twist is on hand, as weight has increased to 5835 pounds, about 120 more than before. So the engine is stout, but it takes a moment to dip into its reserves at low speeds, with slight lag evident. Once the single turbo is spooled, though, the mountain of torque affords ample passing power on highways and is well suited to the GL’s bulk. Diesel clatter is practically nonexistent to occupants, who hear only a pleasantly gruff rumble. Towing capacity is a useful 7500 pounds with the optional $550 trailer hitch, which our test vehicle had.
At the test track, the GL350 hit 60 mph in 7.5 seconds and covered the quarter-mile in 15.8. Those represent improvements of 1.1 and 0.9 seconds over the previous model. Reassuring brakes and a firm pedal brought the truck to a halt from 70 mph in 175 feet. Fuel-economy estimates have notably increased from 17 mpg in the city and 21 on the highway to 19/26; we averaged a respectable 22 mpg. That last number translates to nearly 600 miles of range with the GL’s 26.4-gallon tank.
For 2013, all GL models keep their seven-speed automatics and standard all-wheel-drive systems, although a two-speed transfer case and adjustable drivetrain and chassis controls now are available as part of a new off-road package.
As we’ve noted from previous drives, the 19-inch wheels on our example offer better ride quality than the fancier 20- or 21-inch upgrades. The only difference we discerned between the Sport and Comfort modes of the $800 adaptive dampers was slightly improved body control in the firmer setting. On the skidpad, the GL350 maxed out at a tire-howling 0.75 g, with a numb and very light helm working a new electric power-steering system. Mercedes claims the new rack makes a small contribution toward the improved fuel economy, and we found its ease and accuracy a boon for tight, accurate maneuvering if not driver satisfaction.
