Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

Importing a used Mercedes-Benz GL-Class from the USA

The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is the full-size, seven-seat SUV that Mercedes built in Tuscaloosa, Alabama — an American-made luxury three-row that sold in huge numbers across the United States. That US origin, combined with deep American supply, makes the GL-Class a compelling import candidate: a used example with the right VIN and plant proof can qualify for the EU's 0% preferential import duty. USCar Trader operates as your independent broker for used GL-Class SUVs, helping you find, verify, ship and register a vehicle without being a dealer and without adding a vehicle margin. For buyers who want a large, well-equipped seven-seater with genuine V8 options, the US used market is the natural place to look.

From launch to today

The GL-Class arrived as the first-generation X164 for the 2007 model year, Mercedes' answer to the full-size luxury SUV, built on the M-Class platform with a proper third row. The second generation, X166, launched for 2013 with cleaner styling, more efficient engines and a more refined cabin. In 2017 Mercedes renamed the line GLS as part of its naming reshuffle, so "GL-Class" specifically denotes the 2007–2016 X164 and X166 cars — which is exactly the pool of mature, value-rich used SUVs that import buyers target. The later GLS is a separate model line.

Engines and drivetrain in detail

US GL-Class SUVs came with a strong spread of engines. Petrol buyers chose the GL450 and GL550, powered by 4.6- and 4.7-litre twin-turbo V8s (M278) on the X166, or earlier naturally aspirated and turbo V8s on the X164. The GL350 BlueTEC brought a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel (OM642) prized for its torque and touring range. At the top, the Mercedes-AMG GL63 used a 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 (M157) with around 550 hp. All GL-Class models use the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive system and a seven-speed (7G-Tronic) automatic on most years. The diesel and the GL450 V8 are the sweet spots for German buyers wanting usable, long-legged full-size SUVs.

Trim levels and variants

The GL-Class exists only as a full-size, three-row SUV, so the choice is engine and equipment rather than body style. US cars were typically well-optioned, and features to look for include the air suspension (Airmatic), the panoramic sunroof, the rear-seat entertainment, the Designo leather packages, keyless go, and on later cars the driver-assistance suite. The GL63 AMG adds the uprated V8, AMG suspension and brakes, and a full performance specification.

Used availability in the USA

The GL-Class sold strongly in the US, so used supply is broad across 2007–2016 model years and all engine choices. Typical mileage ranges from around 60,000 miles on late X166 cars to well over 130,000 on early X164s. As a large luxury SUV, condition and maintenance history are decisive — these are complex vehicles with air suspension and V8 or diesel drivetrains. Sun Belt cars tend to be corrosion-free and are the preferred hunting ground; salt-belt cars require a careful underbody inspection. A complete service record is worth more than a low odometer reading on this model.

When importing makes sense

A used GL-Class import suits a buyer who needs genuine seven-seat space and full-size luxury, and who values the American V8 or diesel options and the depth of the US market. It rewards owners who will maintain it properly, since running a full-size Mercedes SUV is not a low-cost proposition. If you want a commanding, comfortable three-row that is increasingly scarce and affordable, and you are prepared for premium-SUV upkeep, the GL-Class is a rewarding import.

Facts and figures

Reliability and common problems

The GL-Class is capable and comfortable, but it is a complex vehicle and the known weak points cluster around a few systems. The Airmatic air suspension is the classic concern: compressors, air struts and lines wear over time and repairs are not cheap, so test that the car sits level and rises correctly. The M278 twin-turbo V8s can develop oil leaks and, on some engines, timing components and cam adjusters warrant checking on high-mileage cars. The OM642 diesel is durable but is known for oil-cooler seal leaks, swirl-flap issues and, on hard-driven cars, injector and DPF attention. The 7G-Tronic gearbox benefits from fluid and conductor-plate service. Electrical gremlins, the SBC/brake components on early cars, and cooling-system parts are worth inspecting. With honest maintenance the GL-Class is dependable; deferred maintenance is where owners get caught out.

How US versions differ

US-market GL-Class SUVs run mph clusters, US lighting and DRL settings, and North American navigation and radio. Diesel cars use US emissions calibration (AdBlue/BlueTEC where fitted). Equipment bundling differs from the German-market GL, and some US Designo and package combinations are attractive to import. As a US-built Mercedes, the GL converts cleanly for German approval; the rear fog lamp and headlight compliance are the main lighting items to resolve.

From US purchase to registration

The route is: shortlist suitable GL-Class SUVs from US listings; run a VIN and origin check (the Tuscaloosa plant code underpins any 0% duty claim); use escrow rather than a direct wire; arrange inland transport to the export port and ocean freight to a North Sea port; clear German customs; complete a TUEV individual approval with any required modifications; then register and plate the vehicle. USCar Trader coordinates these stages as your broker so the process stays organised.

Costs, duty and taxes at a glance

Remember: no origin proof, no 0% duty – and 19% German import VAT is due on every import.

Two separate charges apply. The import duty: under Regulations (EU) 2026/1455 and 2026/1461, the 0% preferential rate applies only to passenger cars of provable US origin shipped directly, valid from 1 July 2026 to 31 December 2029. The GL-Class is built in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, so a US-built car can qualify for 0% — but only with VIN and plant proof of US origin; it is verified per vehicle, never assumed. Separately and always, the 19% German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) is charged on the customs value regardless of origin. USCar Trader adds no vehicle margin — you pay the seller, freight, any statutory duty and the VAT.

TÜV, approval and license plates

Typical approval work includes fitting a rear fog lamp, adapting or replacing headlights for EU photometric requirements, confirming a km/h speed readout, and verifying tyre and emissions compliance (including the diesel's emissions equipment where fitted). The individual approval (Einzelabnahme) produces the documentation the Zulassungsstelle needs to register the SUV. Mercedes data usually eases the paperwork given the model's European presence.

Pre-purchase checklist

Verify these before buying: the VIN matches the title and confirms the Tuscaloosa build (key to any 0% duty claim); a Carfax or AutoCheck shows no salvage, flood or odometer discrepancy; the Airmatic suspension holds level and operates correctly; the underbody is free of structural rust, especially on salt-belt cars; the service record documents oil changes, transmission service and any recalls; the engine (V8 or diesel) is free of significant leaks; and the title is clean rather than salvage or rebuilt.

Import FAQ

Can a US-built GL-Class get 0% import duty?

Yes, potentially. The GL-Class is built in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, so a car with VIN/plant proof of US origin can qualify for the 0% preferential rate. It is verified per vehicle and never guaranteed.

Does the 19% import VAT still apply?

Yes, always. The German Einfuhrumsatzsteuer of 19% is charged on the customs value of every used import regardless of origin.

GL-Class or GLS — what's the difference?

They are the same lineage. "GL-Class" refers to the 2007–2016 cars (X164, X166); Mercedes renamed the line GLS from 2017 onward.

Which engine is best for import?

The GL350 BlueTEC diesel offers strong touring range; the GL450 twin-turbo V8 balances performance and refinement. The GL63 AMG is the performance choice.

Is the air suspension a problem?

Airmatic is a known wear item on high-mileage cars. Test that it holds level and rises correctly, and budget for eventual component replacement.

Are US GL-Class SUVs left-hand drive?

Yes, all US GL-Class SUVs are left-hand drive.

How long does the import take?

Typically several weeks from purchase to registration, depending on freight schedules and TUEV availability.

Do you buy the SUV for me?

No. USCar Trader is an independent broker; you purchase the vehicle and we handle sourcing, verification, shipping and registration.

To begin, explore Mercedes-Benz in the Carhub, compare the GL-Class with the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe or the Mercedes-Benz GLB, and view current GL-Class listings.