Segment:
Full-size luxury SUV
Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking luxury, comfort, space, and capable performance, often with an emphasis on diesel efficiency for long-distance travel.
Key Competitors:
BMW X5, Audi Q7, Lexus RX, Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator
Powertrain:
Powerful yet efficient BlueTEC diesel engine, optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive
Interior:
Luxurious materials, spacious seating for up to seven passengers, advanced technology features
Performance:
Comfort-oriented ride, capable handling for its size, strong towing capacity
Dashboard And Instruments:
Instrument cluster overview, warning lamps, indicator lights, displays
Infotainment And Audio:
COMAND system operation, radio, CD/DVD player, auxiliary inputs, Bluetooth connectivity
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control operation, air conditioning, heating, ventilation, seat climate controls
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, ambient lighting
Driver Controls:
Steering wheel controls, cruise control, transmission selector lever (selector lever module), parking brake
Locks And Security:
Keyless-Go, central locking, anti-theft alarm, remote key fob operation
Seating And Restraints:
Power seat adjustments, seat memory, seat belts, airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors
Driving And Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, driving modes, parking assistance (if equipped), towing information
Customer Assistance:
Service information, roadside assistance, warranty details
Cleaning And Care:
Exterior and interior cleaning recommendations, upholstery care
Maintenance And Specifications:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid types and capacities, filter part numbers
Engine Compartment Overview:
Identification of major engine components, fluid reservoirs, fuses, battery
Tire And Wheel Information:
Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), recommended tire sizes, wheel specifications
Accessories:
Information on available factory-installed accessories
Basic Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement procedures
Operation:
How to operate climate controls, infotainment system, lighting, power accessories, and seating adjustments
Safety Features:
Proper use of seat belts and airbags, child seat installation guidelines
Troubleshooting Basic:
Understanding warning lamps and messages on the instrument cluster
Depth:
Owner-level information for daily operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle features. Does not include in-depth diagnostic or repair procedures.
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Likely 4 or 5 stars (specific ratings vary by test year and configuration)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Crosswind Assist
Traction Control:
All-season traction control
Airbags:
Front, front-side, and window airbags; optional rear side airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Safety:
ISOFIX anchor points for child seats in rear seating positions
System Name:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation).
Features:
Navigation system, 6-disc CD/DVD changer, AM/FM radio, auxiliary input, Bluetooth interface, voice control (optional).
Parking Aid:
PARKTRONIC parking sensors (front and rear), rearview camera (optional)
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control (optional)
Lighting Features:
Bi-xenon headlights with adaptive frontlighting system (optional), LED daytime running lights
Bluetooth:
For hands-free calling and audio streaming
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first, using the appropriate synthetic oil.
Maintenance Service A:
Around 10,000 miles or 1 year (may include oil change, filter replacement, multi-point inspection).
Maintenance Service B:
Around 20,000 miles or 2 years (may include oil change, cabin filter replacement, brake fluid change, etc., in addition to Service A items).
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 5W-40 (MB Spec 229.51 or 229.52 for diesel applications)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 liters (9 quarts)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., MB 325.0 or 326.0)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Spec 331.0)
Washer Fluid Type:
Water/antifreeze mixture, or Mercedes-Benz approved washer fluid concentrate
Adblue Fluid Type:
ISO 22241-1 compliant Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)
Diesel Particulate Filter:
Potential for DPF clogging if primarily used for short trips without sufficient regeneration cycles.
Air Suspension:
AIRMATIC suspension components (e.g., air springs, compressor) can be costly to repair if they fail, though generally reliable.
Adblue System:
Issues with the AdBlue pump, heater, or level sensor can trigger warning lights and potentially limit vehicle operation.
Exhaust Gas Recirculation (Egr):
EGR valve can become fouled and cause performance issues.
Oil Filter:
Example: Mann-Filter HU 721/4 Z, Bosch 0986AF8353, Mercedes-Benz A6421800009
Engine Air Filter:
Example: Mann-Filter C30215/3, Bosch F026400267, Mercedes-Benz A6420901201
Cabin Air Filter:
Example: Mann-Filter CU 2535, Bosch 1987432157, Mercedes-Benz A2518300418
Brand Philosophy:
Reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and performance.
First Generation:
The X164 GL-Class was introduced in 2006 as Mercedes-Benz's first full-size SUV, designed to compete with established American and European luxury SUVs.
2010 Updates:
For 2010, the GL received minor styling updates and the introduction of the BlueTEC diesel powertrain, enhancing fuel efficiency and offering greater torque.
Manufacturing Location:
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA