The X164 GL-Class is a full-sized luxury crossover SUV produced by Mercedes-Benz from 2006 to 2012. It is the first generation model in the GL-Class range.
The X164 GL-Class debuted at the 2006 North American International Auto Show,[5] and deliveries commenced on September in Europe.[6] Around US$600,000,000 was invested in the Mercedes Alabama plant in preparation for the production of vehicles including the X164 GL-Class.[7]
Unlike most three-row luxury SUVs at the time, the GL-Class is based on an elongated and widened version of the M-Class platform, instead of the body-on-frame construction found on vehicles such as the Lexus LX and Cadillac Escalade.[8] The Guardian said in their review of the GL that "even in places where SUVs are rife, it appears comically out of scale" and described the suspension as "caramel-smooth at pace, but bouncy as a Kiddie Castle on speed bumps" before going on to say "the chrome Mercedes badge on the GL's grille is frying pan-sized and, cutely, right at the height where the head would generally be on a standing four-year-old".[9] GL 500 models are badged as GL 550 in the United States.
All models feature leather electric seats, an automatic climate control system, 19-inch alloy wheels, 4MATIC all-wheel drive, air suspension (adjustable by up to 307 mm), and a 7-speed 7G-Tronic automatic transmission.[10] GL-Class models are also optionally available with a tyre pressure monitoring system, DAB digital radio, reversing camera, and rear seat infotainment screens.[11] Grand Edition models were also offered from 2011, and feature a redesigned front bumper, taller grille with three slats, 20-inch AMG alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlamps, and a two-tone interior.[12]
The following changes apply for models produced since June 2009:[13]
The following are the sales figures for the X164 GL-Class:[20][21] Note: 2012 sales figures include the next generation model.