2007 Mercedes-Benz GL Exterior Review [ 2008 ]

MSRP: $52,400 - $54,900
Invoice: $48,732 - $51,057
MPG: - TBD - City / - TBD - Hwy
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U.S.News Scores
Overall:8.9
Performance:8.8
Exterior:8.0
Interior:8.4
Safety:NA
Reliability:4.0

Mercedes-Benz GL Exterior Review

Exterior - 8.0 (Very Good)

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class has a classic SUV shape that reviewers like. The Detroit News says it "is handsome, though, with triangular headlights, sharply chiseled front fenders and classic luxury SUV lines." The GL-Class is a Cadillac Escalade competitor, but reviewers agree its exterior appeal is not the same.

Forbes says "with its low hood and upswept roofline, the GL looks smaller than it actually is." Automobile Magazine, for instance, says "it has none of the charisma of the Cadillac Escalade or Mercedes-Benz's own G-class." On the other hand, the more refined appearance of the GL-Class might appeal to those looking for a bit more sophistication. As a reviewer for Cars.com notes, "If I wanted to feel like I was driving an apartment complex, I'd buy an Escalade. If I prefer to feel like I'm driving an understated yet sleek uptown loft, I'd choose a GL."

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is not without bling though -- exterior enhancements include alloy-wheels, a small, permanently closed sunroof over the third seat (though buyers should note a full, motorized sunroof is an option) and privacy glass for the rear windows. Many reviewers note that the GL-Class has a less bulky appearance than some SUVs. The Detroit Free Press says "the Mercedes looks considerably smaller than it actually is thanks to clever styling touches that include a rising beltline that tricks your eyes with a line that rises steadily from the big, clear headlights, along the bottom of the three side windows and wraps tidily into the GL450's tailgate."

Review Last Updated: 5/5/08