I'm getting ready to purchase a 2007 GL450 and while my wife really liked the car, she was a bit concerned with the rollover warnings plastered all over the driver and passenger visors. I've searched the web, but I can't find any gov't or insurance institute ratings for the GL. I'm sure it's extremely safe since it's a Mercedes, but it would be nice to have some reassurance from 3rd party tests.

For additional perspective on her safety concerns, we are coming from a 2004 X5 which was totaled a month ago when we were t-boned at 45 mph with our two sons in the car (age 3 and age 1 1/2). The X5 performed beautifully and everyone walked away from the accident unharmed.

Any thoughts or information on the GL's safety would be appreciated. Are the rollover warnings just due to lawyers gone wild?

 

Those rollover warnings are found in just about every SUV these days, and yes, I belive they are a CYA statement from the manufacturers.

I haven't seen any formal data on the GL either; I just know that if I'm going to hit or be hit, by something, I can't think of much else I'd want to be in.

Bish

 

Go to a dealer and look at the ratings that are posted on the window sticker. 2009s will be the same.

 

You should ALSO see the same warnings on the BMW X5 (recent model years).

 

today and I couldn't feel safer driving the car... it is built like a tank.

So far, we absolutely love the GL. It is a very different ride from our X5, but in a good way. It's definitely a big step up in luxury, and while I do tend to like the sportier feel of BMW's in general, I think I prefer a little more luxury and little less jostling in a 5,000 lb SUV. The extra space and a real third row is nice as well.

 

Pics.