Around The Web
“a work of sculpted muscularity”
Cars.com »
unique front-end experience”
ConsumerGuide »
all kinds of manly with broad-shouldered looks
Car and Driver »
STYLING | 9 out of 10
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class stands out with its muscular but refined style and well-designed interior.
The Detroit News thinks “the Mercedes SUV is handsome…with triangular headlights, sharply chiseled front fenders and classic luxury SUV lines.” Cars.com calls the 2009 GL-Class “a work of sculpted muscularity,” with "a raked hood imparts a sporty appearance that is augmented by the muscular flared wheel arches." Car and Driver says the GL-Class shares very little with the M-Class SUV, though they’re built on the same platform: “The only shared sheetmetal is the front doors. The GL's styling is more conservative, with a tall, broad profile and much softer shapes than the ML's creases.” ConsumerGuide likes the Mercedes-Benz GL550’s "unique front-end experience, flared fenders, 21-inch wheels, and chrome exterior accents." Cars.com notes "less expensive GLs have 18- or 19-inch wheels."
Most reviewers consulted by TheCarConnection.com praise the interior of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. The Detroit News describes the cabin as “rugged-looking…[with] lots of updated materials, such as matte metal.” ConsumerGuide finds "high-quality materials, including standard real-wood trim, give the cabin a premium feel..." and adds "[while] most controls are logically placed...some have cryptic markings." Car and Driver differs: “the controls are mostly familiar, with two large gauge pods straight ahead, the same four-spoke steering wheel, and a familiar center stack.”
Conclusion
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class combines a squared-off, rugged exterior with a smart and comfortable interior.