The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class represented the pinnacle of luxury SUVs, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and versatility. This model year featured several distinct versions, each catering to different preferences and performance needs. Let’s delve into a detailed specification comparison of the 2010 GL models: the GL350 BlueTEC, GL450 4MATIC, and GL550 4MATIC.
Engine and Performance
The heart of any vehicle lies in its engine, and the 2010 GL Mercedes lineup offered a range of robust powerplants.
GL350 BlueTEC
The GL350 BlueTEC was equipped with a 72-degree V6 diesel engine. This engine featured an aluminum block and head, with a single overhead camshaft per cylinder bank and four valves per cylinder. Displacing 2,987cc, it had a bore of 3.27 inches (83.0 mm) and a stroke of 3.62 inches (92.0 mm), with a high compression ratio of 16.5:1. The turbocharger and intercooler, combined with piezoelectric injectors, helped this engine produce 210 horsepower at 3,800 rpm and a substantial 400 lb-ft of torque between 1,600 and 2,800 rpm. The maximum engine speed was capped at 4,500 rpm.
GL450 4MATIC
Stepping up, the GL450 4MATIC boasted a 90-degree V8 engine, also constructed with an aluminum block and head. It incorporated double overhead camshafts per cylinder bank and four valves per cylinder. With a displacement of 4,663cc, a bore of 3.66 inches (92.9 mm), and a stroke of 3.39 inches (86.0 mm), the engine had a compression ratio of 10.7:1. The GL450’s engine utilized a two-stage resonance intake manifold and tumble flaps to generate 335 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 339 lb-ft of torque between 2,700 and 5,000 rpm. This engine could reach a maximum speed of 6,500 rpm.
GL550 4MATIC
At the top of the range, the GL550 4MATIC featured a larger 90-degree V8 engine, again with an aluminum block and head, double overhead camshafts, and four valves per cylinder. Its displacement was 5,461cc, with a bore of 3.86 inches (98.0 mm) and a stroke of 3.56 inches (90.5 mm), maintaining a 10.7:1 compression ratio. The GL550 engine, equipped with a two-stage resonance intake manifold, delivered a robust 382 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 391 lb-ft of torque between 2,800 and 4,800 rpm, also with a maximum engine speed of 6,500 rpm.
Transmission and Drivetrain
All 2010 GL Mercedes models came standard with a seven-speed automatic transmission featuring Direct Select shift controls. The gear ratios were consistent across all models:
- 1st Gear: 4.38:1
- 2nd Gear: 2.86:1
- 3rd Gear: 1.92:1
- 4th Gear: 1.37:1
- 5th Gear: 1.00:1
- 6th Gear: 0.82:1
- 7th Gear: 0.73:1
- Reverse (R): -3.42:1
- Reverse “comfort mode” (R2): -2.23:1
However, the final drive ratios differed slightly, with the GL350 at 3.45:1 and both the GL450 and GL550 at 3.70:1. All models featured ESP stability control and 4MATIC All Wheel Drive paired with 4ETS traction control, utilizing brake and throttle intervention for enhanced handling and stability.
Chassis, Suspension, and Steering
The 2010 GL-Class vehicles were built on a steel unibody chassis and shared similar suspension and steering systems. All models incorporated a four-wheel independent suspension with Airmatic.
- Front Suspension: Double control arm, air springs, gas shocks, and a stabilizer bar.
- Rear Suspension: Four-link, air springs, gas shocks, and a stabilizer bar.
Steering was speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion across the range, with 3.62 turns lock-to-lock and a steering ratio of 18.6:1. The turning radius for all models was 39.7 feet.
Wheels, Tires, and Brakes
Wheel and tire specifications varied depending on the model:
- GL350 BlueTEC: 8.5 x 20 inch wheels front and rear, with 275/50 R 20 tires front and rear.
- GL450 4MATIC: 8.5 x 19 inch wheels front and rear, with 275/55 R 19 tires front and rear.
- GL550 4MATIC: 10 x 21 inch front and rear wheels, with 295/40 R 21 front and rear tires.
Braking systems were consistent across all models, featuring hydraulic power-assisted 4-wheel vented discs with Four-channel ABS anti-lock, Brake Assist, and electronic brake proportioning. Disc diameters and thicknesses were also uniform:
- Front Discs: 14.7 inches (375 mm) diameter, 1.26 inches (32 mm) thickness, ventilated.
- Rear Discs: 13.0 inches (330 mm) diameter, 0.87 inches (22 mm) thickness, ventilated.
Dimensions and Weight
The exterior and interior dimensions were identical for all 2010 GL Mercedes models, emphasizing the shared platform and body style.
Exterior Dimensions:
- Wheelbase: 121.1 inches (3,075 mm)
- Length: 200.6 inches (5,088 mm)
- Width (mirrors folded): 76.4 inches
- Height: 72.4 inches
- Ground Clearance: 7.8 inches
- Front Track: 65.0 inches (1,651 mm)
- Rear Track: 65.1 inches (1,654 mm)
Curb weight varied slightly based on the engine and features:
- GL350 BlueTEC: 5,423 lbs
- GL450 4MATIC: 5,346 lbs
- GL550 4MATIC: 5,545 lbs
Interior Dimensions:
- Head Room (w/sunroof): Front 40.1 inches (1,019 mm), 2nd Row 40.6 inches (1,031 mm), 3rd Row 38.2 inches (979 mm)
- Leg Room: Front 40.3 inches, 2nd Row 39.5 inches, 3rd Row 34.2 inches
- Shoulder Room: Front 58.3 inches (1,482 mm), 2nd Row 58.9 inches (1,495 mm), 3rd Row 50.5 inches (1,282 mm)
Capacities and Performance
Capacities:
- Cargo Volume (Back row up): 14.3 cu. ft.
- Cargo Volume (Back row down): 43.8 cu. ft.
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 6,944 lbs
- Towing Capacity: 7,500 lbs
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons
- Fuel Reserve: 3.4 gallons
- AdBlue Tank (GL350 BlueTEC only): 8.5 gallons
Performance:
- Top Speed (electronically limited): 130 mph
The 0-60 mph acceleration times varied by model:
- GL350 BlueTEC: TBD (To Be Determined)
- GL450 4MATIC: 6.9 seconds
- GL550 4MATIC: 6.4 seconds
Fuel economy (city/highway) also differed:
- GL350 BlueTEC: 17/23 mpg
- GL450 4MATIC: 13/17 mpg
- GL550 4MATIC: 13/17 mpg
Conclusion
The 2010 GL Mercedes models offered a compelling range of choices within the luxury SUV segment. Whether opting for the fuel-efficient diesel power of the GL350 BlueTEC or the potent V8 performance of the GL450 and GL550 4MATIC, buyers were treated to a vehicle packed with technology, comfort, and Mercedes-Benz engineering excellence. This detailed breakdown of specifications highlights the nuances between each model, aiding potential buyers and enthusiasts in understanding the 2010 GL-Class lineup.
