The Mercedes-Benz GL 400 4MATIC, produced between 2014 and 2015, represents a significant iteration of the X166 GL-Class full-size luxury SUV. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the GL lineup, it bridged the gap between the entry-level GL 350 and the high-performance GL 63 AMG. This variant aimed to deliver a balance of power, efficiency, and luxury, appealing to buyers seeking a spacious, capable SUV with a refined driving experience. The GL-Class, in general, was Mercedes-Benz’s answer to the growing demand for seven-passenger SUVs, competing directly with models like the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and BMW X5.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GL |
| Generation | GL (X166) |
| Type (Engine) | GL 400 (333 Hp) 4MATIC G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.6-11.9 l/100 km (20.3 – 19.8 US mpg, 24.4 – 23.7 UK mpg, 8.6 – 8.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.8-8.3 l/100 km (30.2 – 28.3 US mpg, 36.2 – 34 UK mpg, 12.8 – 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.2-9.6 l/100 km (25.6 – 24.5 US mpg, 30.7 – 29.4 UK mpg, 10.9 – 10.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 215-225 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 141.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 203.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 333 Hp @ 5250-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 111.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 480 Nm @ 1600-4000 rpm (354.03 lb.-ft. @ 1600-4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6300 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 276.821 |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.1 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2360 kg (5202.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3250 kg (7165.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 890 kg (1962.11 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 680 l (24.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2300 l (81.22 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5120 mm (201.57 in.) |
| Width | 1934 mm (76.14 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2141 mm (84.29 in.) |
| Height | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3075 mm (121.06 in.) |
| Front track | 1655 mm (65.16 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1675 mm (65.94 in.) |
| Front overhang | 885 mm (34.84 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1160 mm (45.67 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.4 m (40.68 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The GL 400 4MATIC is powered by the M276.821 3.0-liter V6 engine. This engine is a key component of Mercedes-Benz’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and performance. It features direct fuel injection, a bi-turbocharger setup (twin-turbo), and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The engine produces 333 horsepower at 5250-6000 rpm and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque between 1600-4000 rpm. The engine’s architecture prioritizes a broad torque curve, providing strong acceleration across a wide range of engine speeds. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle. The transmission is a 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifting and responsiveness. This transmission is electronically controlled and adapts to driving conditions to optimize fuel efficiency and performance.
Driving Characteristics
The GL 400 4MATIC offers a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its competitors, the 333 hp engine provides ample power for everyday driving and highway passing. The 7G-TRONIC transmission contributes to smooth gear changes, and the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various weather conditions. Compared to the GL 350, the GL 400 offers noticeably quicker acceleration. However, it doesn’t match the outright performance of the GL 63 AMG. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel economy, with a focus on providing effortless cruising. The substantial weight of the vehicle (2360 kg / 5202.91 lbs) is noticeable, but the engine’s torque helps to mitigate this.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GL 400 4MATIC typically came well-equipped with standard features such as leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a parking assist package. Interior trim options included various wood veneers and aluminum accents. The dashboard layout is typical of Mercedes-Benz, with a focus on elegance and functionality. The GL 400 sat in the middle of the GL lineup, offering more luxury and performance than the base GL 350 but without the extreme performance and price tag of the GL 63 AMG.
Chassis & Braking
The GL 400 4MATIC features a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, but it still offers reasonable body control. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard features. The GL 400’s chassis is designed to handle the vehicle’s substantial weight and provide a stable platform for both on-road and light off-road driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GL 400 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and refined powertrain. However, some critics noted that its fuel economy was not particularly impressive for a V6 engine. Compared to the GL 350, the GL 400 offered a significant performance upgrade, while remaining more affordable than the GL 63 AMG. In terms of reliability, the M276 engine family has proven to be generally reliable, although some owners have reported issues with the air suspension system and the electronic components.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz GL 400 4MATIC (X166) remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of luxury, space, and capability makes it an attractive option for families and buyers seeking a versatile SUV. The M276 engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of reliable service. While newer generations of the GL (now renamed the GLS) offer more advanced technology and features, the X166 GL 400 still represents a compelling value proposition for those seeking a well-built and capable luxury SUV.
