The 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class means to provide family transportation for up to seven people and do so while showcasing the engineering and craftsmanship one expects from a vehicle wearing the three-pointed star. While there are plenty of family-friendly SUVs and plenty more luxury SUVs, the Mercedes GL is one of the few that can be both. Unlike many other large luxury SUVs, the GL-Class is not based on a truck chassis, so it boasts better road manners and interior packaging than a truck-based SUV. Its comfortable and composed ride is worthy of a Mercedes luxury sedan, and while it can be cumbersome to maneuver in tight quarters, the GL boasts superior handling compared to similarly sized rivals. And, of course, like any true Mercedes, the interior boasts excellent quality and construction. There are three different members of the GL-Class: the diesel-powered GL350 Bluetec and the V8-powered GL450 and GL550. Choosing one can be accomplished by determining whether your priority is thriftiness or speed. The diesel achieves high fuel economy but pokey acceleration. The V8 models are pigs on gas and rabbits in a straight line. As solidly built and impressive as the 2012 Mercedes GL-Class is, however, it's hard to justify its sky-high price. Competitors like the Audi Q7 and Land Rover LR4 are upwards of $15,000 cheaper, the Infiniti QX is about $3,000 less but has vastly more standard features. If it's road-tripping cargo capacity you want, the Cadillac Escalade EXT will carry considerably more. Considering this, you'll probably want to do some comparison shopping, but overall the 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is hard to beat for the way it combines both the family and luxury roles.