The Good
The 2009 GL-Class offers a blend of performance and luxury. Its powerful engines provide confident acceleration. A smooth, comfortable ride and spacious cabin appeal to practical buyers needing family transportation. The prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand and stylish design cater to emotional desires for luxury and status.
The Bad
The 2009 GL-Class can suffer from higher maintenance costs compared to non-luxury SUVs. Air suspension issues are a known problem, potentially leading to expensive repairs. Fuel economy is also below average. Prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic experienced with Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: Quick Overview
Key Specs for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class:
- Engine Options:
- GL320 BlueTec (Diesel): 3.0L V6
- GL450: 4.7L V8
- GL550: 5.5L V8
- Horsepower:
- GL320 BlueTec: 215 hp
- GL450: 335 hp
- GL550: 382 hp
- Fuel Economy (City/Highway): (Estimates, may vary)
- GL320 BlueTec: 17/24 mpg
- GL450: 13/18 mpg
- GL550: 12/17 mpg
- 0-60 mph Times: (Estimates, may vary)
- GL320 BlueTec: Around 9.0 seconds
- GL450: Around 7.0 seconds
- GL550: Around 6.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: 7,500 lbs (all models when properly equipped)
- Trim-Level Features:
- GL320 BlueTec: MB-Tex upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, COMAND system with a 6-disc CD changer, power liftgate.
- GL450: Leather upholstery, sunroof, memory seats, wood trim. Builds upon GL320 features.
- GL550: AMG styling, premium leather, upgraded wheels, and additional luxury features. Builds upon GL450 features.
2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GL-Class |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Door 3.0-Liter |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | VANCE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2409.93 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 2894.82 kg |
| Overall Height | 183.9 cm |
| Overall Length | 509.52 cm |
| Overall Width | 192.02 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 307.59 cm |
| Standard Seating | 7 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.0-L V-6 DOHC 24V Turbo Diesel |
| Engine Size | 3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 7-Speed |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $58,200 USD |
| Invoice Price | $54,126 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $875 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Have?
Regarding recalls, it's important to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for the most up-to-date information. Some common recall areas for this generation of GL-Class vehicles have included fuel filter flange issues, potentially leading to fuel leaks and fire risk. Long-term reliability can be a concern due to the complexity of the vehicle's systems. Regular maintenance, using quality parts, and addressing issues promptly are crucial to extending the vehicle's lifespan. Models with higher mileage are more likely to experience these issues. It is highly recommended to get a pre-purchase inspection before purchasing a used GL-Class.
How long will the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were less sophisticated than today's standards but included standard cruise control and optional parking sensors. Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESP), traction control, and a full complement of airbags, including side curtain airbags for all three rows.
Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning, which were advanced for the time. In terms of crash-test ratings, the 2009 GL-Class performed well in government and insurance industry tests. The NHTSA awarded it four stars for frontal crash protection and five stars for side-impact protection. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave it a "Good" rating in its frontal offset and side impact crash tests. These ratings, while good for the time, should be considered relative to newer vehicles with more advanced safety technologies.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Prices and Market Value
2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Cost of Ownership
2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Fuel Efficiency
2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
In terms of reliability, the GL-Class generally lags behind the Lexus LX and Acura MDX. Considering used market prices, the Acura MDX is a compelling alternative if reliability and lower running costs are primary concerns. The Lexus LX, while more expensive on the used market, offers greater long-term dependability. If luxury is paramount and budget allows, a newer, well-maintained Acura MDX or Lexus RX might be better choices to avoid the potential maintenance costs associated with an older GL-Class.
Ranks #647 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 647 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
Copperpipe on November 18, 2022
Love this SUVI am putting 4 grand into my GL450 to replace brakes and power steering. Car has been awesome once you get a good mechanic. Btw its used so I'm not making payments. $400/month maintenance. Not bad. It goes well but they all need airshocks redone.
BenzNMD on December 5, 2019
Best SUV everIt has it all. Luxury, astounding diesel MPG (real world 23mpg mixed/30+mpg on the highway) and torque. Three row seating. Video screens DVD for back seat. It has been super reliable and not crazy expensive to maintain. Somehow the 2009 has a look that looks like much later models.
TT on June 14, 2019
Great and Reliable truck!The truck met all my family needs. I love and enjoyed the experience of owning this vehicle. I would recommend this vehicle any day and anytime.
3500c on March 31, 2019
Comfort styling and peformanceThis car is meeting all my needs. Sporty fast and luxury! This suv is amazing with twin turbo 5.5gl63 amg! Can’t wait to take on trip.
Pinklulu on March 21, 2019
LuxuryI absolutely love my GL450 Mercedes. Mercedes or nothing! Luxury at it's finest. I could not have made a better choice in a vehichle. I am completely satisfied with the purchase.
nlin on December 9, 2018
Elegant and reliableThe Mercedes GL450 offers me everything I need: luxury and elegant design with superior performance, also serving my family need perfect. It has been very reliable and I don't have any problem with it. It never failed me.
paulbot on November 4, 2018
2009 Mercedes GL 450This is a great family car to drive; it is styled nicely, is very safe and reliable. There are cheaper cars to be had, but the difference is in the value for your money.....and this Mercedes has tremendous value. I was surprised to hear how the engines are designed with more oil and coolant passageways than regular cars - this allows heat to not build up and decrease efficiency.....Very stable on any road or off road terrain.
Gkahny on August 25, 2018
Drive a like a sports car with the size of a suvBeautiful suv with all the amenities needed for a family with little ones. Great for long trips with dual DVD player and wireless head phones for the kids.
etcwest1 on August 16, 2018
Comfortable and well appointedMoving up from a Lexus GX470 so this is bigger. The engine performance and suspension hide the fact that it is bigger and heavier. There's more personality in it's handling, you feel more connected to the road in a good way. The technology on the dash is abundant and it will take a bit to get comfortable with how it all works.
Gary on August 7, 2017
Mercedes suvGreat sport utility vehicle. Has all the mercedes bells and whistles. Turbo diesel powered.Gets a lot of attention.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.