Mercedes-Benz GL X164 facelift 2009 GL 500 (388 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC


Overall Rating

7.8 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 3.8 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 4.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Mercedes-Benz GL:

The Mercedes-Benz GLS, formerly Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, is a full-size luxury crossover SUV produced by Mercedes-Benz since 2006. In each of its generations it is a three-row, seven-passenger vehicle positioned above the GLE. The GLS is considered the flagship of the marque's SUV lineup, although the body-on-frame G-Class is more expensive and has been in production longer....(Read more on Wikipedia)

X164 facelift 2009 Overview:

Mercedes-Benz GL (X164 facelift 2009). With 530 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2370 kg, it’s on the heavier side. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.5 s). The top speed reaches 240 km/h. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. With seating for 7, it’s perfect for larger families.

GL 500 (388 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Excellent acceleration (6.5s 0-100km/h) and high-speed capability, making it feel surprisingly agile for its size.

Fuel Economy

High fuel consumption is a significant drawback at 13.6 l/100 km combined, typical for a powerful petrol V8.

Best Use Case: Performance-oriented luxury, drivers prioritizing power and refinement over fuel economy.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Spacious and luxurious 7-seater interior
  • • Powerful and diverse engine lineup, including strong diesels
  • • Excellent ride comfort with AIRMATIC suspension
  • • Strong towing capabilities suitable for large trailers
  • • Premium build quality and materials throughout the cabin

Cons:

  • • High fuel consumption, especially for petrol models
  • • Large size can be challenging in urban environments and parking
  • • Complex electronics and air suspension can lead to expensive maintenance
  • • No Euro NCAP safety rating available for this generation
  • • Older diesel engines may face emissions zone restrictions in some cities

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(X164: 2006 - 2009).

General:
Brand:Mercedes-Benz
Model:GL
Generation:X164 facelift 2009
Modification (Engine):GL 500 (388 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC
Start of production:2009
End of production:2012
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:SUV
Seats:7
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:388 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:71 Hp/l [11mm more]
Torque:530 Nm @ 2800-4800 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M 273.963 More details about the engine M 273.963
Engine displacement:5461
Number of cylinders:8
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:9 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:98 mm mm
Piston Stroke:90.5 mm mm
Compression ratio:10.7:1
Maximum engine speed:6500 rpm.
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:18.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:10.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:13.6 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 5
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:6.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:6.5 sec
Maximum speed:240 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:6.1 kg/Hp, 163.7 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.5 kg/Nm, 223.6 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6.2 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:2370
Max. weight:3150
Max load:780
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:2300 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:620 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):3500 kg
Fuel tank capacity:100 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:750 kg
Size:
Length:5099 mm mm [11mm more]
Width:1920 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1840 mm mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:3075 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1645 mm
Rear (Back) track:1648 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):198 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):12.1 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears7
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeG-TRONIC
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size275/55 R19
Wheel rims size19
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension

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