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.