The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class marked a year of refined luxury and robust performance in the full-size SUV category. Offering seating for up to seven passengers and a suite of advanced features, the GL-Class was designed to cater to families and individuals seeking both comfort and capability. This article delves into the detailed specifications of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, comparing the key features and technical aspects of its three distinct models: the GL350 BlueTEC, the GL450 4MATIC, and the GL550 4MATIC. Whether you are a prospective buyer, an automotive enthusiast, or a service professional working on a Mercedes-benz Gl-class 2010, understanding these specifications is crucial.
Engine and Performance Specifications
The heart of any vehicle lies in its engine, and the 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class offered a range of powerful engines to suit different driving preferences.
GL350 BlueTEC Engine
The GL350 BlueTEC is equipped with a 2,987cc 72-degree V6 diesel engine. Constructed with an aluminum block and head, this engine features a single overhead camshaft per cylinder bank and four valves per cylinder. The valvetrain is driven by a durable duplex chain. With a bore of 3.27 inches (83.0 mm) and a stroke of 3.62 inches (92.0 mm), it achieves a compression ratio of 16.5:1. This diesel engine delivers 210 horsepower at 3,800 rpm and a substantial 400 lb-ft of torque, available from 1,600 to 2,800 rpm. The intake system utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler, complemented by piezoelectric injectors for efficient fuel delivery. The maximum engine speed is capped at 4,500 rpm.
GL450 4MATIC Engine
Stepping up in power, the GL450 4MATIC features a 4,663cc 90-degree V8 gasoline engine, also built with an aluminum block and head. It employs a double overhead camshaft per cylinder bank, with a duplex chain-driven valvetrain and four valves per cylinder. The bore measures 3.66 inches (92.9 mm), and the stroke is 3.39 inches (86.0 mm), resulting in a compression ratio of 10.7:1. This engine produces 335 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 339 lb-ft of torque between 2,700 and 5,000 rpm. The intake system is enhanced with a two-stage resonance intake manifold and tumble flaps to optimize airflow and performance. The GL450 engine can reach a maximum speed of 6,500 rpm.
GL550 4MATIC Engine
At the top of the range, the GL550 4MATIC boasts a 5,461cc 90-degree V8 gasoline engine, sharing the aluminum block and head construction and double overhead camshaft valvetrain design with the GL450. It has a larger bore of 3.86 inches (98.0 mm) and a longer stroke of 3.56 inches (90.5 mm), maintaining a 10.7:1 compression ratio. The GL550 engine generates 382 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 391 lb-ft of torque from 2,800 to 4,800 rpm. It also features a two-stage resonance intake manifold, contributing to its robust performance. Like the GL450, the GL550 engine has a maximum speed of 6,500 rpm.
Transmission, Drivetrain, and Chassis
All 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class models are equipped with a seven-speed automatic transmission, offering Direct Select shift controls for seamless gear changes. The gear ratios are identical across all three models, ensuring consistent performance characteristics in terms of gear progression. The transmission features ratios from 4.38:1 in first gear to 0.73:1 in seventh gear, with two reverse gear options (-3.42:1 and -2.23:1 for “comfort mode”). The final drive ratios vary slightly, with the GL350 at 3.45:1 and both the GL450 and GL550 at 3.70:1.
The mercedes-benz gl-class 2010 chassis is built on a steel unibody construction, providing a solid and safe foundation for this luxury SUV. All models incorporate ESP stability control and 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive, coupled with 4ETS traction control. This system utilizes brake and throttle intervention to ensure optimal grip and handling in various driving conditions.
Suspension, Steering, and Braking System
The suspension system in the 2010 GL-Class is uniformly sophisticated across all models, featuring a four-wheel independent setup with Airmatic air suspension. The front suspension uses a double control arm configuration with air springs, gas shocks, and a stabilizer bar. The rear suspension employs a four-link design, also with air springs, gas shocks, and a stabilizer bar. This advanced suspension system provides a comfortable ride and maintains vehicle composure.
Steering is handled by a speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion system, offering a consistent 18.6:1 steering ratio and 3.62 turns lock-to-lock across all models. The turning radius is 39.7 feet.
The braking system for all mercedes-benz gl-class 2010 variants is hydraulic power-assisted with 4-wheel vented discs. It includes four-channel ABS anti-lock, Brake Assist, and electronic brake proportioning for enhanced safety. The front disc diameter is 14.7 inches (375 mm) and the rear is 13.0 inches (330 mm), with front and rear disc thicknesses of 1.26 inches (32 mm) and 0.87 inches (22 mm) respectively.
Dimensions, Weight, and Capacities
The exterior dimensions of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class models are consistent, reflecting their shared platform and design. The wheelbase is 121.1 inches (3,075 mm), and the length is 200.6 inches (5,088 mm). The width with mirrors folded is 76.4 inches, and the height is 72.4 inches. Ground clearance is 7.8 inches, and the track measures 65.0 inches (1,651 mm) at the front and 65.1 inches (1,654 mm) at the rear.
Curb weight varies slightly across the models, with the GL350 BlueTEC at 5,423 lbs, the GL450 4MATIC at 5,346 lbs, and the GL550 4MATIC at 5,545 lbs. The gross vehicle weight rating is 6,944 lbs for all models, and the towing capacity is a substantial 7,500 lbs. All models share a fuel tank capacity of 26.4 gallons with a 3.4-gallon reserve. The GL350 BlueTEC features an 8.5-gallon AdBlue tank for its diesel emissions system.
Interior dimensions provide ample space for passengers. Front headroom is 40.1 inches (1,019 mm), second-row headroom is 40.6 inches (1,031 mm), and third-row headroom is 38.2 inches (979 mm). Legroom is generous, with 40.3 inches in the front, 39.5 inches in the second row, and 34.2 inches in the third row. Shoulder room measures 58.3 inches (1,482 mm) in the front, 58.9 inches (1,495 mm) in the second row, and 50.5 inches (1,282 mm) in the third row. Cargo volume with the back row up is 14.3 cubic feet, expanding to 43.8 cubic feet with the back row down, offering significant versatility for passengers and cargo.
Performance Metrics and Fuel Economy
Performance figures vary based on the engine choice. The GL550 4MATIC is the quickest, achieving 0-60 mph in just 6.4 seconds, followed by the GL450 4MATIC at 6.9 seconds. The 0-60 mph time for the GL350 BlueTEC is to be determined (TBD). The top speed for all models is electronically limited to 130 mph.
Fuel economy varies significantly based on the engine. The GL350 BlueTEC, with its diesel engine, offers the best fuel efficiency at 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. Both the GL450 4MATIC and GL550 4MATIC achieve 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway.
Conclusion
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class presented a compelling option in the luxury SUV market, offering a choice of engines, a spacious interior, and robust capabilities. Whether opting for the fuel-efficient diesel of the GL350 BlueTEC, the balanced performance of the GL450 4MATIC, or the powerful GL550 4MATIC, buyers were assured a vehicle built to Mercedes-Benz’s high standards of engineering and luxury. Understanding these detailed specifications is invaluable for anyone looking to purchase, maintain, or repair a mercedes-benz gl-class 2010.
