MERCEDES GL (2021)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 71 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
99%
Total Tests (2024)
71
Avg Mileage
29,185 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,582
Is the 2021 MERCEDES GL reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 17 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 3 years old, 99% of MERCEDES GLs from 2021 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 71 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 29,185 miles.
How does the 2021 MERCEDES GL compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2021 MERCEDES GL has 29,185 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 22,200 miles for a 3-year-old car. Higher-mileage cars often have more motorway miles, which is generally less harmful than stop-start urban driving.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES GL?
The most reliable year is the 2020 model with a 100% MOT pass rate, while the 2006 model has the lowest at 78%. The 2021 sits between the two at 99%.
How much does a 2021 MERCEDES GL cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MERCEDES GL by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 99% | 71 | 29,185 mi |
| 2020 | 100% | 69 | 41,984 mi |
| 2019 | 93% | 137 | 35,018 mi |
| 2018 | 95% | 63 | 38,524 mi |
| 2017 | 79% | 47 | 108,751 mi |
| 2016 | 88% | 475 | 73,156 mi |
| 2015 | 89% | 1,283 | 79,394 mi |
| 2014 | 92% | 1,321 | 93,766 mi |
| 2013 | 90% | 1,304 | 103,757 mi |
| 2012 | 89% | 225 | 99,410 mi |
| 2011 | 86% | 609 | 116,582 mi |
| 2010 | 89% | 435 | 121,550 mi |
| 2009 | 81% | 224 | 126,000 mi |
| 2008 | 84% | 371 | 122,229 mi |
| 2007 | 85% | 572 | 130,779 mi |
| 2006 | 78% | 160 | 123,042 mi |
Checking a specific MERCEDES GL?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2021 MERCEDES GL
The 2021 MERCEDES GL is a small family car with a 1300cc petrol engine. 71 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 5% of all 2021 cars for reliability.
With an average of 29,185 miles at 3 years old, MERCEDES GL owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2021 MERCEDES GL Fuel Costs
The 1300cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2021 MERCEDES GL?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,582 (£132/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 99% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
MERCEDES GL Reliability Trend
Newer MERCEDES GLs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2021 MERCEDES GL
At 3 years old, this is still relatively fresh. You may find examples with remaining manufacturer warranty. Depreciation is slowing but hasn't bottomed out yet. If you're flexible on year, the 2020 model has the highest pass rate at 100%. Note: with only 71 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2021 MERCEDES GL
The MERCEDES GL is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol small family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2019) 91% pass rate (-8%) from 124,950 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2019) 92% pass rate (-7%) from 89,653 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2019) 88% pass rate (-11%) from 68,639 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2020) 93% pass rate (-6%) from 52,321 tests