Driving the 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL450 is satisfyingly reminiscent of motoring in the refined R-Class in terms of mechanicals, but the GL’s taller ride height and suspension set-up give a very different experience, particularly on the winding roads of California’s wine country where we performed some of our testing of this new model.

On our highway drive, throttling the GL in automatic mode, we had the best of both worlds: a luxurious ride quality in Comfort or Normal suspension settings, combined with an automatic transmission that takes care of up and down shifting with quietness and ease. Buttery-smooth braking response practically makes it seem as if you’ve a hired chauffeur to perform driving duties. The GL450’s steering is responsive at highway speeds with good on-center feel, and makes it easy to predictably carve through traffic. Of note, we appreciated the height-adjustable and telescoping wheel, which improves safety and negates the need for adjustable pedals to accommodate shorter drivers. Visibility in all directions is good, with a surprise-and-delight moment that arrives when you look through the rear view mirror to find a mostly unobstructed view when riding around empty with headrests in the “down” position.

The GL450’s ride characteristics changed when the asphalt lead us over hill and dale, and along narrow and winding roads. Despite its load-leveling suspension, the ride became jouncy – especially in Comfort mode. Even with the suspension set to Normal, the GL’s required noticeably more attention to the driving. Using the Sport mode, however, proved the solution to excess body motion and adding in the TouchShift manual shifting not only produced a higher fun-factor but also effected less braking and throttling, which smoothed the ride. Manual shifting also let us run the GL450 up to its 6,200-rpm redline, and when running hard you can rest assured that computer control prevents downshifts that would cause the engine to over-rev. Note, however, that reaching the toggles for manual gear changes is a stretch for people with small hands.

While our off-road course was limited due to heavy rains that drenched northern California, we were able to give high marks to the 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL450’s 4WD technology that comes with the optional Off-Road Package. Fitted with 19-inch Dunlop MT/R tires, we found this luxury SUV’s electronic traction control coupled with its low range gearing (2.94) and capable braking system to provide ample traction for all surfaces. We particularly enjoyed the novel feature of being able to set the speed for our downhill descent (from 4-12 miles per hour), as well as override the system by applying throttle. We also noticed the GL450’s tight turning radius and, with the height-adjustable suspension set on its top level, we were able to climb up and over rocks, leaving the sheetmetal free of damage. For more technical needs, two locking differentials can be called upon in severe-duty situations.

Overall, the 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL450 proved capable on the road and off of it, a feat that once was unusual but has become increasingly common. This SUV should have no trouble at all competing against the new Audi Q7, the Lexus GX470, and others that claim the same fame.