Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

Variations on the ‘large 4x4 Merc’ theme because the GL is basically a larger seven-seat and tinsel version of the ML. Turns out that either is a pretty solid bet as an actual vehicle, but a little tarty for proper taste-mongers.

• Comfort

  Big and comfy and capable of steamrolling any pocked roads into submission. Can get a little wallowy if you decide to attack a set of hairpins, which has a direct effect on the colour-pallette of rear-seat passengers, but otherwise long distances are no problem.

  

• Performance

  The GL comes with two diesels (3.0 and 4.0 CDI) offering 224bhp and 306bhp, and the 5.4-litre V8 petrol churning out 388bhp. We'd go for the 450 CDI - the extra grunt over the 350 CDI is needed to help move this leviathan of a car.

  

• Cool

  If you're a footballer's wife then they probably look quite attractive, but the truth is that you can go cheaper and have as much space and prestige.

  

• Quality

  There's a fabulous feeling that Merc has started spending money on the bits that matter - and a decent interior is very important in this sector.

  

• Handling

  Isn't as sharp to steer as a BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne, but ride is acceptable. The GL-Class, despite its size, doesn't suffer much body roll and thanks to air suspension, road imperfections are smoothed away.

  

• Practicality

  If you're genuinely after lots of seats, then the GL is still a little tight for all-adults. Although it's vast (at 508cm, it's 50cm longer than the Land Rover Discovery) it's still tight inside. Six adults will find it difficult to sit in the three rows, the optional last row fit for children only. And with all seven seats in use, boot space is limited (300 litres).

  

• Running costs

  If you buy something this large, then running costs can't be a massive priority for you. If you're a walking paradox though, be warned that it's pretty thirsty and emissions aren't pretty.