Actually, they do. That's mostly because Mercedes only charges $1000 extra for the diesel engine in the ML and the R-class (a premium that company officials tell us is likely to remain the same when the BlueTEC models arrive). The premium for many hybrid SUVs can run into the thousands. Even with the higher per-gallon fuel cost, the reduced fuel usage makes a good case for a diesel ML or R-class.
With the GL320, the case is even stronger. Currently, the diesel-engine GL costs $2500 less than the GL450 with its gasoline V-8 (a relationship that's unlikely to change significantly when the 2009 models arrive). And the GL320 BlueTEC offers an even greater fuel economy improvement over its gasoline-engine sibling than is the case with the ML or the R-class.
Even more so than any of the other new Mercedes diesel SUVs, the GL320 BlueTEC shows that, for those who want to continue to drive larger SUVs in this new era of more expensive fuel, diesel is the way to go.
| | 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL320 BlueTEC | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R320 BlueTEC |
| |
| Base Price: | $46,000 (estimated) | $55,000 (estimated) | $47,000 (estimated) |
| On sale: | Fall 2008 | Fall 2008 | Fall 2008 |
| Engine: | 3.0-liter turbocharged 24-valve DOHC V-6 | 3.0-liter turbocharged 24-valve DOHC V-6 | 3.0-liter turbocharged 24-valve DOHC V-6 |
| Horsepower: | 210 hp @ 3800 rpm | 210 hp @ 3800 rpm | 210 hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Torque: | 398 lb-ft @ 1600-2400 rpm | 398 lb-ft @ 1600-2400 rpm | 398 lb-ft @ 1600-2400 rpm |
| Transmission: | 7-speed automatic | 7-speed automatic | 7-speed automatic |
| Drive: | 4-wheel | 4-wheel | 4-wheel |
| Curb weight: | 4974 lb | 5313 lb | 5092 lb |
| EPA rating (city/highway): | 18/24 mpg | 17/23 mpg | 18/24 mpg |