Background
Intended as replacement for the venerable and much-loved G-Class, the GL-Class (X164) debuted at the North American International Auto Show in 2006 having been undergoing development since 2003. Mercedes' research in North America had revealed that customers wanted a luxury SUV bigger than the existing ML-Class, hence the new GL, which was produced at the firm's Alabama plant as well as in Germany. Somewhat unusually for a vehicle of its type, the GL featured a unitary chassis/body (a lengthened and widened version of the M-Class platform) rather than the body-on-frame construction favoured by certain rivals. As seen here, the top-of-the range GL550 was powered by a 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine delivering 382bhp and 339lb/ft of torque. All models featured 4MATIC all-wheel drive; seven-speed 7G-Tronic automatic transmission; adjustable air suspension; 19" alloy wheels; leather trim; electrically adjustable seats; and automatic climate control. Factory options included tyre pressure monitoring; DAB digital radio; reversing camera; and rear seat infotainment screens.
Mercedes' new off-roader was well received, winning Motor Trend's 'SUV of the Year' award in 2007. Midway through 2009 the model was face-lifted, receiving a mildly restyled exterior and redesigned seats and steering wheel among other changes. According to Autocar: "The GL can seat seven adults properly, each one in comfort. Even the rear pair of chairs has good head and legroom... A touch of a button will fold either – or both – seats to provide a flat cargo space. And they're fast folding, going from 0-to-flat in under five seconds. Flip forward the middle row and the load area becomes cavernous, with a capacity of up to 2300 litres and a platform that measures over 2100mm in length." Not surprisingly, given its outstanding specification, the GL-Class sold well throughout its six years in production before being superseded by the X166 version in 2012.








