MERCEDES GL 320 (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 126 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
77%
Total Tests (2024)
126
Avg Mileage
132,206 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2008 MERCEDES GL 320 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MERCEDES brand average of 87%.
At 16 years old, 77% of MERCEDES GL 320s from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 126 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 132,206 miles.
How does the 2008 MERCEDES GL 320 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 MERCEDES GL 320 has 132,206 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a MERCEDES GL 320?
The most reliable year is the 2006 model with a 90% MOT pass rate, while the 2009 model has the lowest at 75%. The 2008 sits between the two at 77%.
How much does a 2008 MERCEDES GL 320 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 320 by Year
Checking a specific MERCEDES GL 320?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 MERCEDES GL 320
The 2008 MERCEDES GL 320 is a large car with a 2987cc diesel engine. 126 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 132,206 miles at 16 years old, MERCEDES GL 320 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 MERCEDES GL 320 Fuel Costs
The 2987cc diesel engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2008 MERCEDES GL 320?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,050 (£171/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 77% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MERCEDES GL 320 Reliability Trend
Older MERCEDES GL 320s tend to have better MOT pass rates than newer ones, with an average decline of 9 percentage points across model years.
Buying a Used 2008 MERCEDES GL 320
At 16 years old, the MERCEDES GL 320 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2006 model has the highest pass rate at 90%.
Alternatives to the 2008 MERCEDES GL 320
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2008) 80% pass rate (+3%) from 48,705 tests
- AUDI A5 (2010) 82% pass rate (+5%) from 22,181 tests
- JAGUAR XF (2010) 80% pass rate (+3%) from 19,704 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2006) 78% pass rate (+1%) from 17,245 tests