With gas prices hitting nearly $5.00 a gallon and investment portfolio’s having been devastated, it’s amazing that any luxury SUV survived the mass extinction event that we saw a few years ago. At the time, Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator owners who once drove their SUV’s as shining symbols of status and accomplishment were quickly turning in their keys and filling up row after row of used car lots.

But the full-size luxury SUV, to our surprise and joy, didn’t vanish from the face of the Earth. Far from it. Genius product planners and marketing managers worked tirelessly to rebrand and repackage everything owners loved about their gas guzzling kiddie haulers into new, modestly more efficient and socially acceptable packages. Thus began the era of the crossover. Mercedes-Benz has became something of an artisan in this field, and its efforts have been well rewarded. Last year alone, the company sold more light trucks than it did all of its models combined in 2005.

Topping off that list is the GL-Class, a mammoth vehicle that meets the needs of Mercedes youngest average buyer at 48 years old. For 2013, the GL has grown in every measurable dimension, offers subtly more fuel-efficient drivetrain options and a rash of standard and available technology, all supported by a miracle-working air-ride suspension.

According to Mercedes-Benz, the GL450 soaks up a full 60 percent of total GL-Class purchases, with the remainder divvied equally between the GL350 Bluetec and GL550. As such, we spent the majority of our time with the volume bruiser. All told, engineers stretched the second-generation SUV by one inch fore and aft as well as side to side. The 2013 model also sits half an inch taller than its predecessor, though designers have done a smart job of disguising the machine’s considerable heft. Up front, the GL450 wears a familiar interpretation of the automaker’s vertical front fascia. The two-bar grille is dominated by a Silver Arrow emblem roughly large enough to signal neighboring galaxies, and a mesh lower grille and chrome faux skid plate treatment help break up the front valance nicely.

LED daytime running lights are tucked into the lower bumper while projector-beam headlamp arrays sweep discretely into the front fenders. Step to the vehicle’s side and the 2013 GL-Class serves up additional design elements lifted from siblings like the ever-attractive CLS. With a bold body line situated just below the door handles and an aggressive up-kick in the rear flank, the GL avoids any threat of being slab-sided. Blacked-out B and C pillars give the SUV’s greenhouse a flying canopy, while a forward-canted D pillar offers up a few sharp angles juxtaposed to the hauler’s otherwise organic lines. Splashes of chrome from the roof rails and window trim help add a little flare, as do the brushed-metal of the running boards.

The 2013 GL does lose a bit of its design precision toward the rear, however. While the LED taillamps are attractive enough, the bulging bumper cover gives the model a distinctly crossover profile. Down low, the integrated exhaust tips are well executed and help break up the plastic. If the GL conveys its size anywhere, it’s viewed from the stern. With a tall, frameless rear window, the model can’t help but look monolithic. If anything, that’s a comment on how excellently designers have managed to proportion the SUV’s exterior. On the road, the GL simply doesn’t look as big as it is, despite boasting a 121.1-inch wheelbase. That’s 5.6 inches more space between the wheels than the Cadillac Escalade, despite the fact that the Cadillac is over an inch longer from stem to stern.

That stretched wheelbase, wider body and taller roof translates into a cavernous cabin. All together, the GL delivers 143.6 cubic feet of cabin volume, with up to 93.8 cubes of cargo area with both rear seat rows stowed. Speaking of sending the back seats packing, the second and third rows are now mechanized, which means getting the second-row buckets to stow is as simple as mashing a button. The same goes for the way-back bench as well.

Step away from the numbers a bit, however, and the 2013 GL450 easily outclasses its competition inside. With an upholstered dash that boasts fine double stitching, attractive leather options and absurdly adjustable front bucket seats, the GL-Class is a few millennia ahead of its ancient American rival indoors. The only setback on the inside being that the front seats are a bit too stiff for long drives, and the COMAND infotainment interface is starting to age a bit.

The seven-inch LCD screen lacks a touch interface, and the old console-mounted dial-and-button system can be clunky and distracting. Menu options are far from intuitive and the navigation renderings look lifted straight from 2005. Compared to the Audi MMI or Cadillac CUE systems, COMAND is beginning to look more than a little rusty. That said, the Escalade still soldiers on with GM’s last-generation navigation at the moment, though the next chapter in the SUV’s evolution is right around the corner. Buyers will likely see the top-tier Escalade bow with CUE next year for the all-new 2014 model. When that happens, Mercedes-Benz should be worried.

The 2013 Mercedes GL-Class comes with 4Matic all-wheel drive as standard equipment, though buyers can choose from three engine options. Mercedes-Benz says the vast majority of buyers will wind up going home with twin-turbocharged, direct-injection 4.6-liter V8 in the GL450. The engine delivers 362 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, which is more than adequate enough to kick the ridiculously heavy SUV down the highway. Official estimates put the run to 60 miles per hour in the 6.2-second range thanks in part to the seven-speed automatic transmission. The Environmental Protection Agency hasn’t released official mileage figures just yet, though Mercedes-Benz estimates the combination is good for 14 miles per gallon city and 19 mpg highway. Those numbers aren’t outstanding, but they aren’t horrible for a vehicle that tips the scales at 5,401 pounds.

Engineers have worked hard to mask the machine’s mass, but outstanding acceleration aside, the seven-passenger behemoth feels heavy from behind the wheel. Each GL comes standard with the Mercedes-Benz Airmatic air ride suspension, which does an excellent job of mitigating body roll and soaking up imperfections in the road surface. Our test route took us down a heavily washboarded dirt road, and the GL450 absorbed the worst of the undulations at speeds up to 50 mph. The design also allows the driver to select a ride height for any given situation, and the optional $2,800 off-road package lets the Airmatic system increase ground clearance by a staggering four inches. Expect to find additional skid plates and two locking differentials as part of the kit.

Similar to most modern SUVs, the 2013 GL is equipped with an arsenal of driver aids designed to keep the machine on course in any situation. Engineers rolled in a new crosswind stabilization system that senses strong gusts and uses brake application to countersteer the vehicle without driver input. Buyers may also opt for a $2,800 Driver Assistance package that includes a pre-collision warning system and active braking to slow the GL before an accident occurs. In addition, the pack rolls in Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist. While we’ve found the latter system to be novel on other Mercedes-Benz products, it feels heavy-handed on the GL. Get too close to the lines on the road, and the SUV will nosedive as the brakes coerce the machine back on course.

As for the brakes, the GL has some impressive stoppers on hand. On GL450 and GL550 models, 14.8-inch ventilated and perforated rotors handle dissipating heat, while 13.6-inch pieces pull similar duty out back. Even so, the pedal lacks a positive bite on first application, requiring the driver to dig deeper to come to a full halt. From behind the wheel, the GL can’t help but feel like a big crossover, thanks largely to the fact that more than any other “SUV” on the road, this beast cozies up the line between the two segments. With a unibody chassis borrowed from the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the machine’s off-road pretentions are the only thing standing between it and full-on crossoverdom.

That impression is underscored by the vehicle’s electro-mechanical power steering system. As in other applications, the setup is speed sensitive, offering single-finger steering at low speeds and firming up once the GL gathers its momentum. Even at a highway clip, inputs feel on the numb side, though we doubt buyers in this class will care. Those looking for a luxury SUV are likely to be more content with all the dynamics of a soft-driving crossover backed by the muscular V8 under the GL450’s hood.

Mercedes-Benz reports the company managed to sell 25,139 GL-Class units last year, thereby becoming the most popular luxury SUV in the U.S. in the process. This new generation will only get more buyers behind the wheel, and that’s saying something given the GL’s price tag. Technically, Mercedes-Benz will ask $63,900 for the GL450, plus a $950 destination fee. That price will give you standard equipment like heated eight-way power adjustable seats, dual-zone climate control, Attention Assist and Collision Prevention Assist on top of a slew of other mechanical and comfort equipment. It’s worth noting, however, that Collision Prevention Assist won’t actually engage the brakes to avoid an impact without the $2,800 Driver Assistance package.

And that is the only unfortunate part for the 2013 GL-Class. New models can be loaded with over $25,000 worth of options for prices over $90,000. Keep in mind, this isn’t the powerful GL550 or the fire-breathing GL63 AMG. While the base GL450 is nicely equipped, taking advantage of three-zone climate control, the expansive available technology, special exterior colors and interior options will quickly swell the bottom line. While this is nothing new when it comes to German manufacturers, it certainly puts the GL at a disadvantage against another in its class that it previously dethroned.

However, make no mistake, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class when decked out is an indulgance that will pamper you in every way possible. It does so with more interior room than ever before, truly attractive exterior styling and a drivetrain that’s only exceeded in refinement by the SUV’s suspension. Owners of the previous generation who found plenty to love will discover the newest version goes above and beyond all expectations.

Comfort, safety, elegance, efficiency – the all-new 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is the leading luxury full-size SUV. New innovations like standard COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA), Crosswind Stabilization, self-leveling air suspension and electromechanical steering all increase active safety. Also new are assistance systems like Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist, as well as PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist and the Surround View camera. With benchmark performance and ride characteristics both on-road and in rugged terrain, the GL-Class cradles its occupants with the first-class comfort of a luxurious sedan. The all-new GL is perfect for large families with ample space for up to seven passengers, while a host of efficiency measures delivers a substantial improvement in fuel economy. The 2013 GL-Class goes on sale in the U.S. in September 2012.

Its balanced proportions (length 201.6 inches, width 84.3 inches, height 72.8 inches) and generous wheelbase (121 inches) reaffirm the on-road comfort of this vehicle. At the same time, the short overhangs front and rear, as well as substantial ground clearance are clear indications of its off-road capabilities.

The typically high SUV waistline with a distinctive chrome strip, the dynamic sweep of the character line and the chrome edging around the windows all add to the refined look of the all-new GL. The standard wheels on the GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 are 19-inch twin five-spoke alloys, while the GL550 comes with 21-inch AMG twin 5-spoke wheels. 20-inch 10-spoke alloys are available as options on the GL350 BlueTEC and GL450.

Split LED taillight clusters feature light guide technology, and a large roof spoiler and bumper in the modern “wing” design with a large chrome skidplate complete the impressive exterior.

For GL customers who value a more sporty, dynamic look, illuminated brushed aluminum running boards are standard on the GL550 and available as an option for the GL350 BlueTEC and GL450. Also available for the GL450 is the Appearance package with 20-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, illuminated running boards and dual chrome-tipped exhaust outlets.

Inner values – the GL-Class delivers first-class travel

Powerfully dynamic and elegant interior architecture, fine materials and lots of attention to detail, perfect ergonomics and generous amounts of space – the interior of the GL-Class conveys Mercedes-Benz’s characteristic first-class ambience. Large trim pieces in fine wood finish, operating controls in silver chrome, and upholstery in MB-Tex with contrasting stitching reaffirm the overall premium feel of the GL’s interior. The seating offers plenty of space for seven in a 2-3-2 layout. Compared with the previous model, occupants have more shoulder, elbow and headroom on all three seating rows. Electric operation of the third row is a standard feature. A new option is the Power EASY-ENTRY system for access to the third seat row. The second-row bench offers a wide range of positioning options for even more interior versatility, including rear-seat recline and a 60/40 split for optimizing the luggage area, which has a load volume ranging from 16 to 94 cubic feet.

The dashboard design emphasizes the width of the interior. The modern instrument cluster boasts a premium look-and-feel with two clearly designed and easy-to-read dials and a large 4.5-inch photo-quality color display between them. The top of the dashboard is dominated by a large central color screen for the infotainment system. The operating and display concept is extremely user friendly, with the controller now located on the center console. It has a fine metal finish and offers intuitive and simple operation of infotainment, navigation and communication systems. Standard equipment includes a multifunction steering wheel in premium leather with gearshift controls and 12 multi-function buttons.

Beneath the center armrest with integrated hand support is a large stowage bin and, in front of it, the controls and switches for functions such as the AIRMATIC air suspension and the COMAND system. Included here are two cup holders with a premium wood retractable cover. The dashboard trim elements carry into the door trim panels, which feature distinctive stitching. The doormounted seat controls and handle are arranged in typical Mercedes fashion.

Assistance systems place the GL at the top of its class

For further improved safety and driver alertness in the new GL-Class there are a wide range of assistance systems. Standard equipment includes the usual array of stability control features ESP®, ASR, ABS and the PRE-SAFE® predictive occupant safety system, and also introduces for the first time as standard COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA) and ATTENTION ASSIST driver drowsiness detection. The radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST operates at speeds between 20 and 155 mph and recognizes when the distance to the vehicle in front is decreasing. It can also recognize stationary objects. If there is an imminent risk of a collision, the system emits a visual and acoustic warning to alert the driver and prepares Brake Assist for the most immediate possible braking response, which is initiated as soon as the driver applies the brakes.

The system takes into account specific driving conditions such as bumper-tobumper traffic and adapts accordingly, calculating optimum brake pressure and adjusting it up or down as the situation changes – i.e. if the vehicle ahead accelerates, or if the distance to moving and stopping vehicles decreases. It calculates the precise braking force required to avoid an accident and makes best possible use of any distance remaining to minimize the risk of impact from the vehicle behind.

Another innovation and highlight in the new GL is the standard Crosswind Stabilization system, which assists the driver with targeted brake impulses in the event of strong crosswinds to deliver enhanced safety and vehicle control.

The optional Driver Assistance package includes DISTRONIC PLUS and PRESAFE® brake with autonomous braking function to optimize safety in certain dangerous situations. The package also comes with Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist. The Parking Assist package for the GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 features PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist for automatic maneuvering in and out of parallel parking spots, plus the new surround view camera. It uses image data from four cameras at the front and rear of the vehicle and in the exterior mirror casings to calculate a bird’s eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings, and shows this and other perspectives on the large COMAND display. Also available for the GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 is the Lighting package, which includes Bi-xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination & Corner Illuminating Lamps, a headlamp cleaning system and Adaptive Highbeam Assist. The equipment in the Parking Assist and Lighting packages is standard for the GL550.

Passive safety – comprehensive safety for seven passengers

Together with the “electronic crumple zones” provided by the assistance systems and the intelligent bodyshell design, the passive occupant protection systems provide the highest possible level of protection. Adaptive, two-stage airbags for driver and front seat passenger, driver side knee airbag, front & rear side airbags and window curtain airbags across all three seating rows are all standard equipment, while all seven seats are fitted with three-point safety belts. It is important to visit a car insurance comparison site that considers the added safety features when giving you a insurance quote as they will save you money over standard SUV’s without such safety features.Pyrotechnic pre-tensioners, constant belt force limiters and electrically reversible pre-tensioners are all standard on the front seats, while the outboard seats on the middle row and the individual third-row seats are fitted with pre-tensioners and single-stage belt force limiters.

Clean power – the GL-Class engines

All three of the engines in the new GL lineup deliver outstanding performance paired with excellent efficiency.

Model	cyl.	cm3	hp @ rpm	lb-ft @ rpm	0-60 mph (s)	top speed mph
GL350 BlueTEC	6 turbo	2,987	240 @ 3,600	455 @ 1,600-2,400	8.3 (est.)	130
GL450	8 turbo	4,663	362 @ 5,000-6000	406 @ 1,500-4,000	6.2 (est.)	130
GL550	8 turbo	4,663	429 @ 5,250	516 @ 1,800-3,500	5.5 (est.)	130

The extensively re-engineered V6 under the hood of the new GL350 BlueTEC generates 240 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque, marking an increase of 30 hp and 55 lb-ft over the outgoing model. SCR technology and AdBlue® injection place it well within emissions requirements across all 50 states. Supremely fuel efficient, it offers astonishing range on a single tank, paired with excellent pulling power from very low revs.

The twin-turbo direct-injection V8 motor in the best-selling GL450 is an outstanding combination of performance and efficiency. With 362 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, it offers 27 hp and 67 lb-ft more than its predecessor. This added power and higher peak torque delivered over a wider rev range deliver all the prerequisites for relaxed long-distance cruising, as well as the versatility and responsiveness to deal with a wide variety of day-to-day activities.

At the top of the list, the GL550 now comes with a direct-injection twin-turbo 429 hp engine with a mighty 516 lb-ft of peak torque. While the extra 47 hp brings even more performance to this supremely refined full-size SUV, it is the added 125 lb-ft of peak torque that truly make themselves felt, in terms of off the line performance and the ability of the GL550 to handle heavy loads with ease. Alongside state-of-the-art engine technology, all three engines are equipped with extensive efficiency measures like direct-injection and paired with the new seven-speed automatic transmission. Intelligent alternator management keeps fuel consumption down, as does the electromechanical steering, the optimized belt drive with decoupler, the intelligent demand-based control of all auxiliary equipment and pumps. A key feature of the GL350 BlueTEC is also the SCR exhaust system optimized for airflow and back pressure.

The front and rear suspension links, as well as the hood and fenders are made from lightweight and tough aluminum alloy. Further weight reduction was achieved with the new acoustic front windshield, the magnesium transverse mount supporting the dashboard, the BlueTEC system with SCR technology and components such as the new electromechanical steering, electric parking brake, polymer engine mounts and the aluminum brake servo unit. These weight reduction measures increase the agility of the full-size SUV while at the same time reducing fuel consumption.

S-Class comfort with ground-breaking handling both on and off-road

Relaxed, safe driving under all possible conditions both on-road and off-road is one of the strengths of the new GL-Class. NVH characteristics (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) are particularly impressive and on par with the S-Class. The foundation for the high comfort level is the extremely stiff bodyshell, an optimized driveline, improved chassis, aeroacoustic refinement and the intelligent application of new kinds of insulation. Excellent agility, dynamic onroad handling and outstanding off-road capabilities have long been among the benefits of the GL-Class. Standard equipment includes the AIRMATIC full air suspension system with self-leveling function. AIRMATIC delivers outstanding comfort paired with considerably improved stability. It compensates for all manner of driving conditions with features such as crosswind stabilization and the self-leveling function. The optional Active Curve System works at the front and rear axles with active anti-roll bars to compensate for body roll during cornering, delivering a considerable boost to agility and driver involvement. Added stability, further improved comfort and enhanced off-road capabilities are further attributes of the Active Curve System.

The GL is also superbly equipped for trips off of the asphalt. In addition to 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, standard equipment includes a hill start assistant, and Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR). The On- and Off-Road package, available as an option for the GL450 and GL550, enhances handling and safety with six programs, delivering optimum driveline control across the most diverse conditions on the road and on rugged terrain. On the hardware side, the On- and Off-Road package incorporates a skidplate, a two-stage transfer case with reduction gearing, a longitudinal differential lock and expanded AIRMATIC functions that deliver ground clearance of 12 inches and a wading depth of 23.6 inches.

Complete model lineup, compelling equipment packages

Extensive standard equipment, individual equipment packages and an attractive range of paint finishes and premium interior appointments define the look of the new GL-Class. It comes to the U.S. market in three model variants, the GL350 BlueTEC with a V6 diesel, the GL450 and GL550 V8 biturbo gasoline versions.

The comprehensive list of standard equipment has been significantly expanded in comparison with the previous model. It incorporates safety features such as ATTENTION ASSIST, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST and Crosswind Stabilization. Comfort details like the power liftgate, an electric power/tilt sliding glass sunroof, MB-Tex upholstery with perforated surface finish and heated 8-way power front seats with driver 4-way lumbar support are also standard, as is the COMAND system with central controller.

A wide range of optional packages provides customers with extensive choice and added refinement. The Premium 1 package for the GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 includes the iPod/MP3 media interface, hard-drive navigation and voice control, satellite radio and multi-color ambient lighting with illuminated door sills, and memory function for the front seats. The Premium 2 package adds the harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround-sound system, KEYLESS-GO and softclose doors. Further packages available for the GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 are the Lighting package, the Parking Assist package, the Lane Tracking package with Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist. The GL450 also offers the Appearance package with 20-inch 10-spoke wheels, illuminated running boards and dual chrome-tipped exhaust outlets.

The GL550 boasts an unparalleled array of standard equipment that also includes driver and passenger multi-contour seats with massage function and active ventilation, 3-zone automatic climate control and rear air conditioning, an iPod/MP3 media interface, hard-drive navigation and voice control, the harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround-sound system, satellite radio, multi-color ambient lighting, KEYLESS-GO, soft-close doors, PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist, Bi-xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination and Corner Illuminating Lamps and illuminated brushed aluminum running boards. Its safety equipment is further enhanced by Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Surround View.

The Driver Assistance package is available for all three models, while the On- and Off-road package can be selected for the GL450 and GL550. A further array of standalone and special order options is available for all three models. A fine choice of flat and metallic paint finishes spans from Black and Arctic White, to Cinnabar Red, Obsidian Black, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Pearl Beige, Dakota Brown, Diamond White and Lunar Blue.

Inside, the GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 are fitted with Eucalyptus wood trim as standard, while the GL550 comes with Burl Walnut. MB-Tex upholstery is offered in Black, Almond Beige or Grey, with genuine leather in a choice of Black, Almond Beige or Grey. designo upholstery with DINAMICA headliner as well as designo Black Piano Lacquer Wood Trim and a designo wood/leather multifunction steering wheel are optionally available.

Mercedes offers the broadest SUV lineup

Globally, the most diverse range of SUVs in the premium segment comes from Mercedes-Benz. A total of five model lines are available around the world. Alongside the GL-Class, the successful global family encompasses the distinctive GLK, the classic “G” all-terrain vehicle, the long-distance specialist the R-Class and the bestselling M-Class. Mercedes-Benz is also the premium SUV manufacturer with the longest tradition. SUVs account for around one fifth of the brand’s global sales volumes, with the U.S. being by far the largest market for the entire SUV family. With 27,000 units sold in 2011, this is where the GL-Class achieved a market share of around 30 percent, making it the absolute market leader in its segment. The second largest SUV market overall is China, followed by Germany.

Quick Reference: Performance/Availability:

• On-Sale: September 2012
• 2013 GL350 BlueTEC: 240hp, 455 lb-ft (Previously 210 hp, 400 lb-ft)
• 2013 GL450: 362hp, 406 lb-ft (Previously 335 hp, 339 lb-ft)
• 2013 GL550: 429hp, 516 lb-ft (Previously 382 hp, 391 lb-ft)

New Standard Feature Highlights:

• COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST
• ATTENTION ASSIST
• Crosswind Stabilization
• Central COMAND controller
• Electromechanical steering
• Direct-injection twin-turbo gasoline V8 engines
• Color instrument cluster display

New Optional Feature Highlights:

• Multi-color Ambient Lighting
• PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
• Active Curve System
• On- and Off-Road Package
• Surround View Camera
• Driver Assistance Package
• Adaptive Highbeam Assist
• Power EASY-ENTRY second row
• Panorama roof

Dimensions:	Length	Width	Height	Wheelbase
2013MY GL-Class	201.6″	84.3″	72.8″	121″
2007-12MY GL-Class	200.7″	83.6″	72.4″	121″

Even more visually expressive and with an even more elegant and comfortable interior, Mercedes-Benz presents the new GL-Class “Grand Edition”. This distinctive, new special edition of the off-roader comes as standard with a level of spaciousness and comfort that is on a par with a luxury saloon. Features reserved exclusively for the “Grand Edition” designation include special light-alloy wheels with 275/50 R 20 tyres, high‑quality, two-tone leather seats in a new design, and wood trim in black ash. The special Grand Edition model also offers an array of high-quality additional equipment and is available with all the engines in the GL-Class line-up.

The exclusive front end of the “Grand Edition” is unmistakeable: dark-tinted headlamps, a radiator grille with black, high-gloss louvres and a redesigned front bumper with integrated LED daytime running lamps define the special model. Light-alloy wheels in himalayas grey metallic – with a high-sheen finish also available as an option – add further exclusivity. There are other visual highlights too, such as metallic paint finishes, heat-insulating and infrared-reflecting laminated glass all round, aluminium-look running boards with rubber studs, and separated exhaust tailpipe trim.

The interior of the GL-Class accommodates up to seven occupants in comfort with an exceptional level of spaciousness, creating the luxurious atmosphere you would expect from Mercedes-Benz – in this case comparable to the S-Class. For the “Grand Edition”, Mercedes-Benz has refined the interior further, especially through the use of stylish materials. Exclusive appointments include two-tone seats (black/porcelain or black/maroon) in leather (or in nappa leather as an option) with a special piping design and contrasting stitching.

Likewise only available on the “Grand Edition” are door centre panels, armrests and dashboard instrument panel with double-lapped felling, as well as trim and a wood/leather steering wheel in black ash.

Other high-quality appointments: comfort headrests for the driver and front passenger, ambient lighting, roof liner in black designo fabric, velour floor mats with contrasting stitching and “Grand Edition” lettering, “Grand Edition” badge on the centre console, sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs and door sill panels in stainless steel.

Powerful and economical engines

The “Grand Edition” models are equipped with PARKTRONIC and any one of the available engines. The V6 diesel engine in the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC utilises highly efficient SCR exhaust gas technology, outputs 155 kW (211 hp) and delivers its maximum torque of 540 Newton metres at 1600 rpm. On average this engine consumes 9.0 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres. In the GL 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, the V6 engine outputs 195 kW (265 hp) and generates torque of 620 Newton metres. It consumes 8.9 litres per 100 kilometres.

Superior power delivery and maximum smoothness are the particular benefits of the two petrol V8 models. These models also comply with the EU5 emissions standard. The 5.5-litre V8 engine in the GL 500 outputs 285 kW (388 hp) and delivers 530 Newton metres of torque. At 6.5 seconds, its acceleration time from a standstill to 100 km/h is almost worthy of a sports car. On the GL 450, the V8 petrol engine has a displacement of 4.6 litres, outputs 250 kW (340 hp) and generates maximum torque of 460 Newton metres. It takes 7.2 seconds to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h.

Agile and safe both on-road and off-road

With innovative 4MATIC all-wheel drive, AIRMATIC air suspension as standard, the accurate Direct-Steer system and the Adaptive Damping System ADS, which also comes as standard, the commanding GL-Class offers impressive handling, guaranteeing excellent ride comfort coupled with outstanding active safety. While the GL cuts an imposing figure on the asphalt, it also has genuine off-road credentials. The modified AIRMATIC air suspension enables ground clearance of up to 307 millimetres. Thanks to its low-range ratio and limited-slip rear-axle and centre differentials, the standard Off-Road Pro technical package opens up considerably more possibilities on challenging terrain. Other electronic dynamic handling control systems such as Off-Road ABS, Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) and Hill-Start Assist also make life easier for the GL-Class driver.

Prices of “Grand Edition” special models incl. 19% VAT:

• GL 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY 80,206 euros,
• GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC 81,396 euros,
• GL 450 4MATIC 91,868 euros,
• GL 500 4MATIC 99,127 euros