The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class performance portfolio contains a trio of fairly powerful engines. The GL is a great performer out of town and is well-suited to long-distance motorway driving, where its well-insulated interior and relaxed engines make it a comfortable cruiser. On the open road, it performs better than many other off-roaders with an agility and pace that belies its substantial size. Three engines are offered – two diesels and a petrol. The GL500 gets a 5.5-litre 388bhp V8 petrol, while there’s a 3.0-litre 224bhp V6 turbodiesel for the GL320 CDI.

Strong diesel engines

The 4.0-litre 306bhp V8 diesel in the GL420 CDI offers plenty of pulling power while remaining refined when cruising and it’s rapid too – managing 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds. These two diesels are more popular with buyers who want to take full advantage of the GL’s 3,500kg towing ability.

Feisty petrol engine

Unlike the M-Class, there are no plans for a fire-breathing AMG model, although the range-topping GL500 is hardly a slouch. It’s quicker and faster than a Volkswagen Golf GTI, sprinting to 62mph in 6.5 seconds and onto a top speed of 149mph. Not bad for a car that weighs in excess of two tonnes. All models get a seven-speed automatic gearbox as standard.

Facelift in 2009

The facelift saw the introduction of two new diesel engines to replace the old versions. The GL350 is a 220bhp 3.0-litre which helps the GL to 62mph in 9.2 seconds. The GL450 gets a 4.0-litre with 301bhp, hitting 62mph in 7.4 seconds.

Parkers recommends

We’d suggest those looking for acceptable running costs should go for the GL320, or GL350 if looking at post-2009 cars.

The GL is a huge vehicle. It’s more than five metres long, which is 11cm longer than a Range Rover – itself an imposing car. Around town this size is noticeable, especially when parking or attempting a tricky manoeuvre. But it’s no wider than most off-roaders, so driving down narrow streets isn’t as daunting as you may imagine. Despite being such a tall vehicle, body roll is well controlled in corners and its weight has been kept as low as possible to ensure it isn’t cumbersome in tight bends.

It’s designed to be a serious off-roader and is more than capable – and equipped – to deal with terrains ranging from muddy tracks to steep inclines, thanks to Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC permanent four-wheel drive system. In addition, the OFF-ROAD PRO package is standard giving off-road ABS, a downhill speed regulator, low-range gearbox, differential lock and adjustable suspension, which can add up to 307mm of extra ground clearance.