The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL Class marked a year of refined luxury and robust performance in the full-size SUV category. This model year offered a blend of comfort, capability, and Mercedes-Benz engineering, appealing to families and individuals seeking a premium driving experience with ample space and power. Understanding the specifications of the 2010 GL Class is key for prospective buyers, owners, and automotive enthusiasts alike. This article delves into the detailed specifications across the different models available, providing a comprehensive overview of what made the 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL Class a standout vehicle.
2010 GL Class Model Overview: GL350 BlueTEC, GL450 4MATIC, and GL550 4MATIC
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL Class lineup featured three distinct models, each catering to different performance and efficiency preferences: the GL350 BlueTEC, GL450 4MATIC, and GL550 4MATIC. All models shared the core characteristics of a four-door, seven-passenger luxury sport utility vehicle built on a steel unibody chassis, emphasizing safety and structural integrity. Despite their shared platform, each model distinguished itself through its engine and performance characteristics.
Engine and Powertrain Specifications
The heart of each 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL Class model lies in its engine. The range included both V6 and V8 engine options, each designed for optimal performance and driving dynamics.
GL350 BlueTEC Engine Details
The GL350 BlueTEC was equipped with a 72-degree V6 diesel engine. This engine featured an aluminum block and head, with a single overhead camshaft per cylinder bank and four valves per cylinder. Its displacement was 2,987 cc, with a bore of 3.27 inches (83.0 mm) and a stroke of 3.62 inches (92.0 mm). The compression ratio was notably high at 16.5:1, typical for diesel engines. This configuration allowed the GL350 BlueTEC to produce 210 horsepower at 3,800 rpm and a substantial 400 lb-ft of torque between 1,600 and 2,800 rpm. The intake system incorporated a turbocharger and intercooler, along with piezoelectric injectors for enhanced fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The maximum engine speed was capped at 4,500 rpm, reflecting its diesel nature focused on low-end torque.
GL450 4MATIC Engine Specifications
Stepping up in power, the GL450 4MATIC featured a 90-degree V8 gasoline engine, also constructed with an aluminum block and head and four valves per cylinder. This engine utilized double overhead camshafts per cylinder bank. Its larger displacement of 4,663 cc, achieved through a 3.66 inch (92.9 mm) bore and 3.39 inch (86.0 mm) stroke, contributed to a higher power output. The compression ratio was 10.7:1. The GL450 delivered 335 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 339 lb-ft of torque between 2,700 and 5,000 rpm. The intake system was a two-stage resonance intake manifold with tumble flaps, optimizing airflow for both low-end torque and high-rpm power. The engine could reach a maximum speed of 6,500 rpm, showcasing its gasoline engine characteristics.
GL550 4MATIC Engine Performance
The top-tier GL550 4MATIC boasted a larger 5,461 cc 90-degree V8 gasoline engine. Like the GL450, it featured an aluminum block and head, double overhead camshafts, and four valves per cylinder. With a bore of 3.86 inches (98.0 mm) and a stroke of 3.56 inches (90.5 mm), and a 10.7:1 compression ratio, it was tuned for maximum performance. The GL550 generated 382 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 391 lb-ft of torque from 2,800 to 4,800 rpm. It also employed a two-stage resonance intake manifold, and shared the 6,500 rpm maximum engine speed with the GL450.
Transmission and Drivetrain
All 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL Class models were equipped with a seven-speed automatic transmission featuring Direct Select shift controls. The gear ratios were identical across all models, with ratios from 4.38:1 in first gear to 0.73:1 in seventh gear, and reverse at -3.42:1 and a “comfort mode” reverse at -2.23:1. However, the final drive ratios differed slightly, with the GL350 at 3.45:1 and both the GL450 and GL550 at 3.70:1, reflecting the different engine characteristics and performance targets. All models utilized the 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive system combined with 4ETS traction control, ensuring optimal grip and stability in various driving conditions through brake and throttle intervention.
Chassis, Suspension, Steering, and Brakes
The 2010 GL Class prioritized a comfortable yet controlled ride, featuring a four-wheel independent suspension system with Airmatic air suspension on both front and rear axles across all models. The front suspension was a double control arm design, while the rear was a four-link setup, both incorporating air springs, gas shocks, and stabilizer bars. Steering was handled by a speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion system, offering a 18.6:1 steering ratio and 3.62 turns lock-to-lock, resulting in a 39.7 feet turning radius.
Braking was robust across the range, featuring hydraulic power-assisted 4-wheel vented discs with four-channel ABS anti-lock, Brake Assist, and electronic brake proportioning. The front disc diameter was 14.7 inches (375 mm) and the rear was 13.0 inches (330 mm) for all models. Front disc thickness was 1.26 inches (32 mm) and rear disc thickness was 0.87 inches (22 mm), ensuring substantial stopping power.
Wheels, Tires, and Dimensions
Wheel and tire sizes varied across the models. The GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC shared front 8.5 x 20-inch and rear 8.5 x 20-inch wheels, fitted with 275/50 R 20 tires for the BlueTEC and 8.5 x 19-inch front and rear wheels with 275/55 R 19 tires for the GL450. The GL550 4MATIC sported larger 10 x 21-inch front and rear wheels with 295/40 R 21 tires, emphasizing its sportier nature.
Exterior dimensions were consistent across all models, with a wheelbase of 121.1 inches (3,075 mm), a length of 200.6 inches (5,088 mm), and a width of 76.4 inches (mirrors folded). The height was 72.4 inches, and ground clearance was 7.8 inches. Track width was 65.0 inches (1,651 mm) at the front and 65.1 inches (1,654 mm) at the rear. Curb weight varied slightly, with the GL350 BlueTEC at 5,423 lbs, GL450 4MATIC at 5,346 lbs, and GL550 4MATIC at 5,545 lbs.
Interior dimensions also remained the same across the range, offering 40.1 inches of headroom in the front, 40.6 inches in the second row, and 38.2 inches in the third row (all with sunroof). Legroom was 40.3 inches in the front, 39.5 inches in the second row, and 34.2 inches in the third row. Shoulder room was generous, with 58.3 inches in the front, 58.9 inches in the second row, and 50.5 inches in the third row.
Capacities and Performance Metrics
Cabin volume and cargo capacities were uniform across the 2010 GL Class models. Cargo volume with the back row up was 14.3 cubic feet, expanding to 43.8 cubic feet with the back row down. The gross vehicle weight rating was 6,944 lbs for all models, and towing capacity was a substantial 7,500 lbs. Fuel tank capacity was 26.4 gallons, with a 3.4-gallon reserve. The GL350 BlueTEC also included an 8.5-gallon AdBlue tank for its diesel emissions system.
Performance varied significantly based on engine choice. The GL550 4MATIC was the quickest, achieving 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds, followed by the GL450 4MATIC at 6.9 seconds. The 0-60 mph time for the GL350 BlueTEC was to be determined. Top speed was electronically limited to 130 mph for all models. Fuel economy differed as well, with the GL350 BlueTEC offering the best figures at 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. The GL450 and GL550 4MATIC both achieved 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway.
Conclusion
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL Class provided a compelling combination of luxury, space, and performance. With three distinct models offering different engine options and performance characteristics, the GL Class catered to a wide range of preferences. From the fuel-efficient diesel GL350 BlueTEC to the powerful V8 GL550 4MATIC, each model delivered the quality and engineering expected from Mercedes-Benz. Understanding these specifications allows for a deeper appreciation of the 2010 GL Class and its position in the luxury SUV market.
