G-Loomis rods are well worth the money if you get and IMX or GLX. I have numerous of them and more than satisfied, however with that being said I do not like the GL2 so if you are looking at the price range of the GL2 I would say your money is better spent on something different. I peronally dont believe the GL2 is worth it but the next step up hands down worth it. Unfortunately there is a price difference.
And yes Loomis is owned by Shimano but the return policy is different, it is much easier to replace a Shimano than a G-Loomis right now. The G-Loomis is covered but has to be sent in where Shimano you can get replaced at the dealer.