For those seeking a full-size luxury SUV that prioritizes substance over ostentation, the 2008 Mercedes-benz Gl-class emerges as a compelling option. While some buyers in this segment aim to flaunt their vehicles, many others simply desire a spacious cabin, premium comfort, robust performance, and a respected brand, without the need for excessive flamboyance. For these discerning individuals, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class stands out as a top contender.
Having debuted the previous year, the GL450 and the diesel-powered GL320 CDI quickly garnered acclaim, securing Edmunds.com’s Editors’ Most Wanted award for SUVs exceeding $45,000. The GL-Class distinguished itself from rivals like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator through its appealing combination of generous passenger and cargo space, capable handling both on and off-road, and a wealth of desirable features offered at a competitive price point. The powerful 4.6-liter V8 engine in the GL450 further impressed with its rapid acceleration, outperforming competitors in its class.
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class lineup expanded with the introduction of the GL550 trim. Equipped with the same potent engine found in Mercedes-Benz’s flagship S550 sedan, this new top-tier GL model delivers performance that rivals sportier luxury SUVs like the Range Rover Supercharged and BMW X5 4.8i, while still comfortably accommodating six adults. When fully loaded with all the optional packages available on the GL450, the GL550’s price approaches $80,000, positioning it within a very exclusive market segment. This premium price is reflected in distinctive visual enhancements, including fender flares, 21-inch AMG wheels, and a redesigned front fascia featuring a larger grille and an oversized three-pointed star, unmistakably announcing its Mercedes-Benz pedigree.
Alt text: Prominent Mercedes-Benz три-pointed star logo on the bold front grille of a 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, emphasizing its luxury brand identity.
The GL320 CDI represents a particularly intriguing choice within the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class range. The CDI designation signifies its turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel engine, which, characteristic of diesel powertrains, provides substantial low-end torque and superior fuel economy compared to its gasoline counterparts. While the GL320 CDI is not as quick as the GL450, it offers ample power for city driving and sufficient performance for most families’ needs. Furthermore, it presents a $2,500 cost saving compared to a similarly equipped GL450, and its 26.4-gallon fuel tank enables an impressive range of up to 700 miles. Despite lingering negative perceptions of older diesel engines, modern diesels are refined, clean, and remarkably quiet. Although the GL320 CDI initially did not meet the stringent emissions standards of California and the Northeast, the subsequent 2009 GL-Class Bluetec diesel achieved 50-state certification, demonstrating Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to clean diesel technology.
Alt text: Sleek side view of a 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class highlighting its spacious seven-passenger capacity and elegant SUV design.
In the often extravagant realm of large luxury SUVs, the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class distinguishes itself with an understated elegance. Its sophisticated engineering, unit-body construction, and superior build quality further set it apart from other seven-passenger full-size SUVs. Moreover, the GL450 and GL320 CDI models are priced competitively, often undercutting similarly equipped Cadillac Escalade and other competitors in the segment. And for those desiring a touch of extravagance, the availability of 21-inch wheels, a premium Logic7 sound system, and the inherent prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand ensure the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class remains perfectly suited for cruising in style.
