GL Class (X164) 2007-2012: GL320CDI, GL420CDI, GL450, GL550

May pull the trigger on 2008 GL320

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Old Dec 21, 2008 | 10:57 PM
  #1  
John_S's Avatar
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Lexus GX470
May pull the trigger on 2008 GL320

Considering replacing my 2004 GX470 with a new 2008 GL320. I use the GX as my tow vehicle for my 4500 lb boat/trailer. I have 42000 miles on my GX with at least 1/2 of the 42000 miles towing my boat.

Wished Toyota or Lexus had a US diesel. I have had no mechanical issues with the GX470. It pulls the boat okay. Wished it had more torque and better gas mileage.

With the longer wheelbase and the impressive torque, I'm expecting that GL will out perform the GX, deliver better mpg ( GX delivers 13 mpg while towing at 65 mph) and be a more stable while towing

Was wondering if the the GL will be able to match the mechanical reliability of the GX when stressed with serious towing. Was also a little concerned that the GL does not have a full frame.

Any feedback would be appreciated.
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Old Dec 22, 2008 | 01:42 AM
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oknish's Avatar
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From: LA LA Land
'07 GL 450, '02 S 80 T6
Search for posts by Danno4x4 and peruse his discourses on GL's towing capabilities.
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Old Dec 22, 2008 | 07:47 AM
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GL 320cdi, Chevrolet Avalanchero, GLE 350 (on order)
Do it. If memory serves, I got 8.9l/100k average pulling a 2,500 lb trailer through the mountain passes of British Columbia last year. Was over 700km, and I still had a quarter tank of fuel when I got home. (26.4 US MPG)
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Old Dec 22, 2008 | 11:40 AM
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2002 S430, 2004 Cobra, 2004 Tahoe
I don't think you would be disappointed in the upgrade. The GL320 has 400lbft of torque which will definitely help and a 7500lb towing capacity. Another plus to the GL is that when you plug in the trailer lights, it also plugs in to the traction system for trailer stability.
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Old Dec 22, 2008 | 01:10 PM
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I tow a 4 ATV trailer up Vail Pass (9000+ feet above seal level) without any problem. You won't be dissapointed!
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Old Dec 22, 2008 | 04:12 PM
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C32 AMG
Originally Posted by Blk04cobra1
I don't think you would be disappointed in the upgrade. The GL320 has 400lbft of torque which will definitely help and a 7500lb towing capacity. Another plus to the GL is that when you plug in the trailer lights, it also plugs in to the traction system for trailer stability.
Does the towing package include some sort of pre-wiring? I don't tow yet, but I got the package with the intent to tow my track car.
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Old Dec 22, 2008 | 06:10 PM
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GL 320cdi, Chevrolet Avalanchero, GLE 350 (on order)
Originally Posted by Fifth Ring
Does the towing package include some sort of pre-wiring? I don't tow yet, but I got the package with the intent to tow my track car.
yes, everything but a little loom with a circut breaker you can hobble up in about five minutes for the controller, on 08 and up. Early cars are a bear.
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