With a plush and hushed interior, relatively good fuel economy, plenty of towing capacity and generous interior space, the GL350 BlueTec is a cut above other large SUVs. We found it to be one of the most comfortably riding SUVs we'd tested. But one serious flaw, reluctant emergency handling, gives us pause.
Gasoline and diesel powertrains are offered. We opted for the BlueTec diesel because it offers the best combination of power and fuel economy. The 240-hp, V6 turbodiesel engine and super smooth seven-speed automatic transmission make for a refined and responsive powertrain, with strong mid-range acceleration and fuel economy of 20 mpg overall.
There is a lot to like about this big Mercedes SUV. But the reluctant and unresponsive handling in emergency maneuvers is a serious problem.
Best version\/options to get
Our tested GL350 BlueTec is the most sensible combination. The engine is refined and efficient, and with the 19-inch wheels the GL rides better than with the optional 20-inchers. If you plan to tow, it's a lot cheaper to get the hitch included with the factory tow package rather than adding it after the fact. We'd look for one so-equipped if buying used. Blind spot monitoring is a good idea for this big SUV, and should be standard, but Mercedes-Benz charges extra for it. We'd skip the useless running boards -- they just get in the way. The faux leather upholstery is hardly distinguishable from real leather, so we wouldn't splurge on the real thing.
Notable changes
New for 2015 was a twin-turbocharged, 362-hp V6 for the GL450.