Ford
Expedition
Mercedes-Benz
GL
Ford Expedition vs Mercedes-Benz GL: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Mercedes-Benz GL comes out ahead of the Ford Expedition on fuel economy and power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Expedition
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. Long-term owners of older models, particularly those with the 5.4L Triton V8 (e.g., 2013 model), report very high reliability with only routine maintenance required, describing them as "rock solid" and "so reliable." However, sentiment shifts significantly for newer generations equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and the Ford/GM co-developed 10-speed automatic transmission. These models are frequently criticized for severe and recurrent transmission failures ("jerk, clunk, bang"), cam phaser issues requiring engine work, and other premature mechanical failures.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" model year or trim. Data suggests avoiding specific problematic years is more critical than seeking a particular trim.
Known issues
- ⚠10-speed automatic transmission failures: very frequent reports of harsh shifting, jerking, clunking, banging, complete loss of acceleration, and total transmission failure requiring replacement, sometimes multiple times under 100,000 mile…
- ⚠Cam phaser failure: requires timing cover gasket replacement and phaser replacement; causes engine rattle on startup and performance loss. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Other EcoBoost engine issues: includes reports of excessive oil consumption (adding a quart monthly), coolant hose failures, and in one severe case, white smoke from exhaust with gasoline smell and loss of power. Frequency: recurrent.
GL
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on model year, engine choice, and ownership expectations. The X164 generation (pre-2013) is described as a "dinosaur" with a less refined driving experience but is noted for its non-turbo engine reliability. The facelifted X166 generation (2013-2019) is widely praised for its significant improvements in driving dynamics, comfort, and interior quality, offering a "magic carpet" ride with its adaptive air suspension.
Best version to buy
For the X166 generation (2013-2019), the facelift models (2017-2019) are frequently recommended for their updated and more reliable engines (M276 turbo V6, updated M278 V8). The GLS550 (V8) is highlighted as providing an ideal blend of smooth, abundant power and luxury, described as "one of the best full-size 3 row crossover experiences." The non-AMG body style with standard 20-inch wheels is preferred over AMG-line models with larger wheels for a better ride quality and lower tire replacement costs.
Known issues
- ⚠Air suspension failure: Components like the pump and air springs fail, leading to expensive repairs (quoted at ~$5k minimum). Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠High maintenance and repair costs: Routine servicing, parts (e.g., brakes, tires), and repairs are significantly more expensive than mainstream brands; described as "flagship maintenance costs." Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Electronic system failures: Flaky blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, infotainment issues, and power seat malfunctions. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Mercedes-Benz GL is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Ford Expedition, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Ford Expedition is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Ford Expedition or the Mercedes-Benz GL?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Ford Expedition and the Mercedes-Benz GL. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Ford Expedition or the Mercedes-Benz GL?
The Ford Expedition seats more passengers than the Mercedes-Benz GL on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Ford Expedition is classed as a SUV, the Mercedes-Benz GL as a SUV.
Which has better fuel economy, the Ford Expedition or the Mercedes-Benz GL?
The Mercedes-Benz GL is more fuel-efficient on paper: 12.3 L/100km combined versus 13.8 L/100km for the Ford Expedition, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Ford Expedition or the Mercedes-Benz GL?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Mercedes-Benz GL than the Ford Expedition. See the known issues comparison above.