The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class marked a year of refined luxury and powerful performance in the full-size SUV category. This model year offered a range of options to cater to different needs and preferences, all while upholding the Mercedes-Benz standard of excellence. Let’s delve into the specifications of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, exploring the engine options, dimensions, and capabilities that defined this vehicle.
2010 GL-Class Model Variants: A Detailed Look
In 2010, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class was available in three distinct models, each offering a unique powertrain and set of features: the GL350 BlueTEC, the GL450 4MATIC, and the GL550 4MATIC. All models shared the core characteristics of a four-door, seven-passenger luxury sport utility vehicle built on a robust steel unibody chassis.
Engine and Performance: Power Under the Hood
The engine options were a key differentiator between the 2010 GL-Class models.
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GL350 BlueTEC: This model featured a 72-degree V6 diesel engine with a displacement of 2,987cc. Constructed with an aluminum block and head, and incorporating a single overhead camshaft valvetrain, it delivered 210 horsepower at 3,800 rpm and a substantial 400 lb-ft of torque between 1,600 and 2,800 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler intake system, along with piezoelectric injectors, contributed to its efficiency and responsiveness.
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GL450 4MATIC: Stepping up in power, the GL450 4MATIC boasted a 90-degree V8 gasoline engine with a displacement of 4,663cc. Also featuring an aluminum block and head, but with a double overhead camshaft valvetrain, this engine produced 335 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 339 lb-ft of torque between 2,700 and 5,000 rpm. Its two-stage resonance intake manifold and tumble flaps optimized airflow for enhanced performance.
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GL550 4MATIC: At the top of the range, the GL550 4MATIC was equipped with a larger 90-degree V8 gasoline engine, displacing 5,461cc. Sharing the aluminum block and head and double overhead camshaft valvetrain of the GL450, the GL550 engine generated a more potent 382 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 391 lb-ft of torque between 2,800 and 4,800 rpm. It also utilized a two-stage resonance intake manifold to maximize power output.
All engine variants in the 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class were paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission featuring Direct Select shift controls, ensuring smooth and responsive gear changes.
Transmission, Drivetrain, and Dynamics
The 2010 GL-Class models all utilized a seven-speed automatic transmission with identical gear ratios and featured ESP stability control for enhanced handling. Traction was managed by the 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive system combined with 4ETS traction control, employing brake and throttle intervention for optimal grip in various driving conditions.
The suspension system across the range was a sophisticated four-wheel independent setup with Airmatic air suspension. This included double control arm front suspension and four-link rear suspension, both utilizing air springs, gas shocks, and stabilizer bars. This system contributed to the GL-Class’s comfortable ride and composed handling.
Steering was handled by a speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion system, offering a turning radius of 39.7 feet across all models.
Dimensions, Capacities, and Weight
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class models shared identical exterior and interior dimensions, emphasizing their spaciousness and practicality.
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
Interior Dimensions (Front/2nd Row/3rd Row):
- Head Room (with sunroof): 40.1 / 40.6 / 38.2 inches (1,019 / 1,031 / 979 mm)
- Leg Room: 40.3 / 39.5 / 34.2 inches
- Shoulder Room: 58.3 / 58.9 / 50.5 inches (1,482 / 1,495 / 1,282 mm)
Capacities:
- Cargo Volume (Back row up): 14.3 cu. ft.
- Cargo Volume (Back row down): 43.8 cu. ft.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (plus a 3.4-gallon reserve)
- AdBlue Tank (GL350 BlueTEC only): 8.5 gallons
- Towing Capacity: 7,500 lbs.
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 6,944 lbs.
Curb weight varied slightly between models, with the GL350 BlueTEC at 5,423 lbs, the GL450 4MATIC at 5,346 lbs, and the GL550 4MATIC at 5,545 lbs.
Performance Metrics and Fuel Economy
Performance varied depending on the engine choice. The GL550 4MATIC delivered the quickest acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds, followed by the GL450 4MATIC at 6.9 seconds. The GL350 BlueTEC’s 0-60 mph time was To Be Determined (TBD). Top speed was electronically limited to 130 mph for all models.
Fuel economy varied significantly. The GL350 BlueTEC, with its diesel engine, offered the best fuel efficiency at 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. The GL450 4MATIC and GL550 4MATIC both achieved 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway.
Conclusion: The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Legacy
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class solidified its position as a leading luxury SUV, offering a blend of powerful engine options, spacious interiors, and advanced technology. Whether opting for the fuel-efficient diesel of the GL350 BlueTEC or the robust V8 power of the GL450 and GL550 4MATIC, buyers were treated to a vehicle designed for both luxury and capability. This model year remains a significant chapter in the GL-Class story, showcasing Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to excellence in the SUV market.
