It's really a larger ML. A few goodies and a new engine but the transmission and all-wheel drive system is basically the same. The GL for the most part will drive and ride better than an LX470 on the road but the LX will out perform it to death off-road. The GL offers more third seat room but is not as wide in the first and second row. Expect many first year problems with the GL as has been Mercedes history the past few models.