The Mercedes GL X166 is a bold, full-size luxury SUV. Mercedes-Benz produced it from 2012 to 2019. It belongs to the second generation of the popular Mercedes GL Class.
This SUV offers a mix of comfort, power, and space. It suits families who want both performance and luxury. The Mercedes-Benz GL stands out for its size and strong road presence. In 2016, Mercedes gave the GL a new name. It became the GLS-Class to show its high status in the lineup. Mercedes placed it beside the flagship S-Class in terms of comfort and design.
The Mercedes GL Class X166 gives you seating for up to seven people. Its cabin uses high-quality materials and smart layout. Every ride feels smooth, whether you’re in the city or on the open road. Drivers love the blend of luxury and strength. It handles daily drives, long trips, and weekend adventures with ease. This SUV isn’t just big- it’s built to impress.
Overview Of The Mercedes GL X166
The Mercedes GL X166 stands out in the full-size SUV world. It offers bold styling, strong presence, and serious comfort. This SUV fits families, professionals, and anyone who loves a roomy, high-end ride.
The Mercedes GL Class gives you space for seven passengers. Every seat feels comfortable and well-built. The interior blends luxury with everyday function. Mercedes packed the GL X166 with advanced features. You’ll find high-tech options, smart safety systems, and luxury touches throughout. It’s a vehicle that feels premium but still practical.
You can take it off-road, cruise the highway, or run errands in the city. It handles each task with ease. That mix of power and polish makes it a favorite in the SUV market.
History And Development
Mercedes-Benz first showed the X166 GL Class at the Los Angeles Auto Show in 2012. The company began full production later that year. This model replaced the first-generation Mercedes GL Class.
Mercedes built the new version with more space. They made it longer and wider than before. Despite its size, they reduced the overall weight. Engineers improved every part of the SUV. They added stronger materials and modernized the components. These updates helped boost performance and fuel efficiency.
Mercedes also focused on clean dimension control. The design felt bold but balanced. Inside, they used high-quality materials to raise comfort and style. In 2016, Mercedes renamed the GL-Class to the Mercedes Benz GLS450. This new name matched the naming system used in other luxury vehicles. It also confirmed the model’s position as the top SUV in the Mercedes-Benz lineup.
How Much Is The GLS X166?
The price of a used Mercedes-Benz GLS X166 varies widely. It depends on the trim, condition, and mileage. A well-maintained GL450 4MATIC or GLS450 usually costs between $20,000 and $45,000.
The GL63 AMG is more expensive. Its engine is more powerful, and it features upgraded brakes. The manual modes also enhance its performance at higher speeds.
If you enjoy driving on the road, the GL63 offers a more dynamic experience. It’s designed to deliver more power and handling. The new GL Class models have lowered the price of used X166s, making them a good deal for those seeking a luxury SUV.
Target Market And Positioning
Mercedes-Benz positioned the GL-Class as a full-size luxury SUV for families and executives. It competed with models like the BMW X7 and Audi Q7. The GL-Class offered more standard equipment than its rivals.
Buyers liked the Mercedes-Benz SUV for its versatility. It could handle long road trips and carry heavy loads with ease. At the same time, it had the style and features needed for city driving. Many in related searches for large luxury SUVs considered the GL-Class a top option.
Design And Features
The Mercedes-Benz GL X166 has a bold exterior design. It features strong lines that create a powerful road presence. The front includes a large bumper with sleek LED headlights for better visibility. The rear sports LED tail lights, adding to the vehicle’s stylish look. The design uses high-quality materials for both durability and luxury.
Inside, the cabin offers a combination of comfort and advanced technology. The vehicle includes a 58-inch display for easy access to controls. Premium leather seats provide comfort, while polished metal accents enhance the cabin’s elegance. It also ensures a pleasant experience for both drivers and passengers.
Key Features:
- Bold exterior lines for a commanding presence.
- Large bumper with LED headlights for improved visibility.
- LED tail lights for a sleek, modern look.
- 58-inch display for infotainment and control.
- Premium leather seating and polished metal accents.
- AMG Line for sporty styling.
- High-quality materials throughout for durability.
- Rear passenger amenities for extra comfort.
Performance And Engine Options
The Mercedes-Benz GL X166 offers a variety of engine choices to suit different driving needs. The GL450 4MATIC features a turbocharged V6 engine. This engine provides solid torque, making it ideal for daily driving. It offers a smooth and capable ride, perfect for both city roads and highways.
For more power, consider the GL550 and GLS550 models. These vehicles come with a V8 engine. This gives them a more aggressive performance, with plenty of strength for overtaking and off-road driving. The GL63 AMG takes performance to the next level. With massive horsepower, it delivers an exhilarating driving experience. The GL63 AMG also includes an upgraded suspension for better handling at higher speeds, making it perfect for enthusiasts who crave power and precision.
If you prefer diesel, the GL350 BlueTEC is a great choice. This model is known for its excellent torque and fuel efficiency. It’s ideal for those who want the power of a diesel engine while also enjoying better fuel economy.
Key Engine Options:
- GL450 4MATIC: Turbocharged V6 with solid torque.
- GL550 & GLS550: V8 engines offering aggressive performance.
- GL63 AMG: High horsepower, upgraded suspension, and superior handling.
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GL350 BlueTEC: Diesel engine offering torque and fuel efficiency.
The GL X166 provides a powerful and varied lineup of engines. Whether you’re looking for fuel efficiency or top-tier performance, the GL class delivers. It’s a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers, whether for daily commuting or thrilling off-road adventures.
Driving Experience And Handling
The Mercedes-Benz GL X166 delivers a smooth ride. Its AIRMATIC suspension adapts to different loads and terrains. This ensures comfort on rough roads. At higher speeds, the vehicle remains stable and composed. The second generation model excels in keeping a secure driving experience. For off-roading, the low range gearbox provides extra capability for light adventures. The updated LED headlights improve visibility during nighttime driving, enhancing safety.
Fuel Efficiency
The Mercedes-Benz GL X166 provides decent fuel efficiency for its size. Expect around 14–19 MPG, depending on the engine type and vehicle condition. Diesel models, like the GL350 BlueTEC, offer better efficiency. These models stretch the range and are more economical.
The number of cylinders in the engine also affects fuel consumption. V6 and V8 variants have different fuel economy ratings. Photos of the vehicle show the design, giving you a clearer picture of its performance and style.
Safety Features
The Mercedes-Benz GL X166 comes with a variety of standard safety features. It has multiple airbags, which provide essential protection in the event of a collision. Stability control ensures the vehicle maintains control, even on rough roads. The GL Class model range offers more safety technologies for added peace of mind.
- Blind-spot assist
- Lane-keep assist
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Adaptive cruise control
The 58-inch display allows the driver to access and monitor safety systems easily. The GL X166 also earned favorable crash test ratings from both the IIHS and Euro NCAP, proving its reliability in real-world safety tests.
Trim Levels And Customization
The Mercedes-Benz GL X166 offers several trim options to meet different needs. These trims include the GL350 BlueTEC, GL450 4MATIC, GL550, GL63 AMG, GLS450, and GLS550. Each trim comes with unique features. For instance, the GL63 AMG offers upgraded brakes and sporty styling. Meanwhile, the GLS550 provides a more luxurious interior and refined features.
Customization is key with the GL X166. Buyers can choose from various accessories, such as a 58-inch display for enhanced infotainment. You can also add rear-seat entertainment, roof rails, and load organizers. The vehicle’s roof can handle up to 220 lb of weight, allowing for even more gear to be carried. This flexibility lets buyers personalize their vehicle for both everyday needs and special activities.
Maintenance And Reliability
The Mercedes-Benz GL X166 requires routine care to maintain reliability. Regular tasks include oil changes, brake inspections, and suspension checks. The AIRMATIC suspension needs periodic attention, as it is a crucial part of the vehicle’s ride quality. Though it can experience issues, routine maintenance helps manage these problems.
Common maintenance needs include:
- Checking the AIRMATIC suspension
- Inspecting the brakes for wear
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Changing the oil regularly
The cost of ownership is higher due to the advanced features and technology in the GL X166. However, many owners find the investment worthwhile for the vehicle’s performance and luxury. Features like the premium infotainment system and high-quality materials enhance the overall experience. Despite the costs, the Mercedes-Benz GL X166 remains a reliable choice in the luxury SUV market.
Comparing With Competitors
The Mercedes-Benz GL X166 competes with the BMW X7, Audi Q7, and Lexus LX. These vehicles also offer luxury, power, and advanced features. However, the GL X166 stands out in several key areas. It provides more interior space, making it more comfortable for passengers and cargo.
It’s AIRMATIC suspension ensures a smooth ride, even on rough roads. The GL X166 also commands a strong presence on the road. However, newer models like the BMW X7 and Audi Q7 feature more modern infotainment systems.
Key comparisons:
- Mercedes-Benz GL X166 offers superior interior space.
- The AIRMATIC suspension delivers a smoother ride.
- BMW X7 and Audi Q7 have more modern infotainment systems.
- The Lexus LX excels in off-roading but lacks the GL X166’s on-road luxury.
The Mercedes-Benz GL X166 remains a strong choice for those seeking luxury, space, and comfort.
Buying Considerations
A used Mercedes-Benz GL X166 offers great value for those seeking a luxury SUV. It provides spacious interiors, advanced features, and a smooth ride. However, buyers should be aware of suspension wear, especially in models with AIRMATIC suspension. Inspect the vehicle carefully for signs of wear, as suspension components can degrade over time.
Key buying tips:
- Choose a trim based on your preferences: GL450 for a balance of performance and comfort, or GL63 AMG for high performance.
- Inspect the vehicle for AIRMATIC suspension wear and other potential issues.
- Check the maintenance history to ensure the vehicle was well cared for.
- Look out for known issues with the GL X166, such as electronic glitches or suspension problems.
Performing a thorough inspection and reviewing the vehicle’s history will help you make a smart purchase.
Final Verdict
In 2025, the Mercedes-Benz GL X166 still stands out as a top choice. It combines style, power, and luxury in a full-size SUV. The GL X166 offers ample space and comfort, making it a solid option for families. If you want reliability, go for the GL450 or the diesel GL350 BlueTEC. These models provide great balance and fuel efficiency.
For performance enthusiasts, the GL63 AMG delivers exceptional power and handling. It’s perfect for those who prioritize performance. Overall, the Mercedes-Benz GL X166 remains a strong contender in its class, offering a refined experience for anyone seeking a luxury SUV.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.Is The Mercedes GL X166 A Reliable SUV?
Yes, the GL X166 is reliable, especially with proper maintenance. Many owners report the GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 as durable models. Regular servicing can help avoid common issues and keep the vehicle running smoothly.
2.What Engine Options Are Available For The X166?
The GL X166 offers several engine choices:
- 3.0L V6 twin-turbo (GL450, GLS450)
- 4.7L V8 twin-turbo (GL550, GLS550)
- 5.5L V8 twin-turbo (GL63 AMG)
- 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel (GL350 BlueTEC)
These engines cater to different driving preferences, from efficiency to performance.
3.Does The GL X166 Handle Off-Road Driving?
Yes, the GL X166 is built to handle light off-road driving. It features AWD, a low-range gearbox, and adaptive suspension. These features make the vehicle capable on rough terrains and unpaved roads.
4.How Much Can The GL X166 Tow?
The GL X166 can tow up to 7,500 lbs. The towing capacity depends on the engine and configuration. This makes it a great choice for hauling trailers or other heavy loads.
5.Is The X166 Expensive To Maintain?
Maintenance costs for the GL X166 can be high. Parts and repairs, especially for the AIRMATIC suspension or AMG models, can add to the expense. However, the vehicle’s luxury and performance make it a worthwhile investment for many owners.