The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class of 2010 represented a significant stride in luxury SUVs, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and versatility. This model year featured three distinct versions: the GL350 BlueTEC, the GL450 4MATIC, and the GL550 4MATIC. Each model catered to different preferences and needs, while maintaining the core characteristics of the GL-Class. Let’s delve into a detailed comparison of their specifications to understand what made the Mercedes 2010 Gl a standout in its category.
Engine and Performance of the 2010 Mercedes GL Models
The heart of any vehicle lies in its engine, and the 2010 Mercedes GL lineup offered a diverse range of powertrains.
The GL350 BlueTEC was equipped with a 3.0-liter 72-degree V6 diesel engine. This engine, constructed with an aluminum block and head, featured a single overhead camshaft per cylinder bank and four valves per cylinder. It delivered 210 horsepower at 3,800 rpm and a robust 400 lb-ft of torque, available between 1,600 and 2,800 rpm. The GL350 BlueTEC utilized a turbocharger and intercooler, along with piezoelectric injectors for optimized fuel delivery and efficiency.
In contrast, the GL450 4MATIC and GL550 4MATIC models boasted gasoline V8 engines. The GL450 featured a 4.7-liter 90-degree V8 engine, also with an aluminum block and head, but with double overhead camshafts per cylinder bank. This engine produced 335 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 339 lb-ft of torque between 2,700 and 5,000 rpm. The GL450 incorporated a two-stage resonance intake manifold and tumble flaps to enhance performance and efficiency.
The top-of-the-line GL550 4MATIC was powered by a larger 5.5-liter 90-degree V8 engine, sharing the aluminum block and head and double overhead camshaft configuration with the GL450. This engine generated a more potent 382 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 391 lb-ft of torque from 2,800 to 4,800 rpm. Like the GL450, it also featured a two-stage resonance intake manifold.
All three 2010 Mercedes GL models were paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission with Direct Select shift controls, ensuring smooth and responsive gear changes. They shared identical gear ratios across all seven speeds and reverse, as well as the final drive ratios, although the GL450 and GL550 had a slightly different final drive at 3.70:1 compared to the GL350’s 3.45:1.
Chassis, Suspension, and Handling of the 2010 Mercedes GL-Class
Built on a steel unibody chassis, the 2010 mercedes 2010 gl models prioritized both strength and refined driving dynamics. All versions came standard with a four-wheel independent suspension system featuring Airmatic air suspension. This sophisticated system contributed to the GL-Class’s comfortable ride and capable handling.
The front suspension across all models was a double control arm setup with air springs, gas shocks, and a stabilizer bar. The rear suspension utilized a four-link design, also with air springs, gas shocks, and a stabilizer bar. This setup provided a balance of comfort for everyday driving and control for more demanding situations.
Steering was handled by a speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion system across the range, offering a consistent steering ratio of 18.6:1 and 3.62 turns lock-to-lock. The turning radius for all models was 39.7 feet, indicative of a vehicle of this size.
Wheel and tire specifications varied slightly between models. The GL350 and GL450 featured front and rear wheels of 8.5 inches in width, but the GL350 had 20-inch diameter wheels with 275/50 R 20 tires, while the GL450 used 19-inch wheels with 275/55 R 19 tires. The GL550 was equipped with larger 10-inch wide wheels, 21 inches in diameter, and wider 295/40 R 21 tires, front and rear, reflecting its higher performance positioning.
Braking was consistent across the range, with hydraulic power-assisted four-wheel vented discs, four-channel ABS anti-lock brakes, Brake Assist, and electronic brake proportioning. The front disc diameter was 14.7 inches (375mm) ventilated, and the rear disc diameter was 13.0 inches (330mm) ventilated for all models.
Dimensions, Capacities, and Practicality of the 2010 GL-Class
As a full-size luxury SUV, the 2010 Mercedes GL-Class offered substantial dimensions and capacities, making it a practical choice for families and those needing ample space.
Exterior dimensions were identical across all models, with a wheelbase of 121.1 inches (3,075 mm) and a length of 200.6 inches (5,088 mm). The width with mirrors folded was 76.4 inches, and the height was 72.4 inches. Ground clearance was 7.8 inches, suitable for light off-road duties.
Interior dimensions also remained consistent, offering generous headroom, legroom, and shoulder room in all three rows. Front headroom was 40.1 inches, second-row headroom 40.6 inches, and third-row headroom 38.2 inches. Legroom measured 40.3 inches in the front, 39.5 inches in the second row, and 34.2 inches in the third row.
Cargo volume varied depending on seat configuration. With the back row up, cargo volume was 14.3 cubic feet, increasing to 43.8 cubic feet with the back row down. Cabin volume figures were not specified in the original data.
All models shared a gross vehicle weight rating of 6,944 lbs and a towing capacity of 7,500 lbs. The fuel tank capacity was 26.4 gallons, with a 3.4-gallon reserve. The GL350 BlueTEC also included an 8.5-gallon AdBlue tank for its diesel emissions system.
Performance and Fuel Economy Figures
Performance varied significantly based on the engine choice. The GL550 4MATIC was the quickest, achieving 0-60 mph in a manufacturer-estimated 6.4 seconds, followed by the GL450 4MATIC at 6.9 seconds. The 0-60 mph time for the GL350 BlueTEC was to be determined (TBD) at the time of the original specification sheet. Top speed was electronically limited to 130 mph for all models.
Fuel economy figures differed considerably. The GL350 BlueTEC diesel offered the best fuel efficiency, with an estimated 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The GL450 4MATIC and GL550 4MATIC gasoline models shared the same fuel economy rating of 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway.
Conclusion
The 2010 mercedes 2010 gl class presented a compelling range of luxury SUVs, each with its own strengths. The GL350 BlueTEC prioritized fuel efficiency with its diesel engine, while the GL450 4MATIC offered a balanced V8 performance, and the GL550 4MATIC delivered more robust power. Regardless of the model chosen, the 2010 GL-Class maintained Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury, comfort, and engineering excellence, making it a sought-after vehicle in the SUV market.
