Initially designed to replace the boxy, dated, but still rugged G-Class sports utility vehicles, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class takes on an entirely different role in the Mercedes-Benz lineup by taking on the Cadillac Escalade, Audi Q7 and Lexus GX470.
The GL-Class is essentially a stretched and somewhat squared off version of the smaller ML-Class vehicles. They share the ML's fully independent suspension, unibody construction and some powertrain choices.
A recent facelift for the GL-class resulted in redesigned bumpers, front grille, faux skid plates and LED tail lamps pair up with revised alloy wheels in 19 to 21-inch diameters, depending on trim and equipment levels.
The GL receives Mercedes' PRE-SAFE system, which prepares the vehicle and occupants for an impending collision.
In the interior the driver and passengers are able to enjoy even more generous appointments. Fine details and high-grade technology raise both visual appeal and comfort to a new level. Further highlights are provided by stylish yet functional ambient lighting, as well as chrome highlights on the frame and selector lever cover, seat adjustment controls and the loudspeakers in the front doors. Another eye-catching detail is the chrome luggage compartment sill panel with "Mercedes-Benz" lettering.
For the GL320 CDI and GL450, major options include a Harman-Kardon audio system, xenon headlamps, a heated steering wheel and rear seats, and a premium package with front-and-rear obstacle detection, navigation, power telescoping steering wheel, memory seats and mirrors and a power liftgate. A sunroof and full leather upholstery are also available.
Making the GL more capable when the pavement ends is an Off-Road package, which includes a two speed transfer case, locking center and rear differentials, a roof rack, skidplates and a height-adjustable air suspension.
Outstandingly high seating comfort is assured by the multicontour front seats in black leather with seat climatisation. These offer first-class comfort on long journeys, even in mid-summer temperatures. They are accompanied by burr walnut wood trim, and the same, high-grade wood plus leather adorns the steering wheel and selector lever.
Leather upholstery is complemented by burl walnut or maple wood trim. Standard equipment includes automatic climate control, power windows and locks, DVD navigation, power front seats with three-position memory, and rear parking assistance.
*Standard "mbrace" telematics system
*Alcantara leather headliner in G55 AMG
*Rear-passenger reading lamps
*Optional HD radio and Sirius Real-Time Traffic
*Ambient lighting is standard
*Leather dashboard
Externally Mercedes-Benz has significantly upgraded the "BA3 Final Edition". AMG flared wheel arches in the vehicle colour, in combination with 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels and tyre size 265/60 R 18, underline the striking appearance of the special model. Running boards and a spare wheel cover with a 3D Mercedes-Benz star in stainless steel, as well as an AMG radiator grille in a 3-louvre design with chrome highlights, emphasise its exceptional position in the range. Standard features also include an electric sliding/tilting sunroof, metallic paintwork, rear mudflaps, carbon-fibre look inserts in the protective strips, an ultrasonic reversing aid and a tyre pressure monitoring system.
The GL550 adds 21-inch wheels, special running boards and nearly all of the available features as standard to the mix. The only factory options on the GL550 of note include KeylessGo and a rear seat entertainment system.
This distinctive SUV's strictly utilitarian appearance is somewhat softened by body-colored bumpers and rocker panels, plus a stainless steel spare-tire cover.
*New 18-inch twin five-spoke wheels (G550)
*Spare wheel cover
*Body-colored door handles
Standard on the GL320 CDI is a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 engine that puts out 210 horsepower and an impressive 400 lb-ft. of torque, the highest of any GL model. Though not certified for sale in states that follow California or Northeast emissions rules in the United States, the GL320 CDI is available elsewhere, where buyers will discover 23 MPG fuel economy on the highway and effortless power around town while obtaining 17 miles per gallon. That performance is due in part to a seven-speed automatic transmission, which is standard on all GL-Class models.
At $1,000 higher than the GL320 CDI's base price of $59,950 is the GL450. Motivated by a 4.6-liter, 335 horsepower, 339 lb-ft. of torque V8, the GL450 is otherwise identical to its diesel brother.
Topping the range is the new-for-2008 GL550, which features a 382 horsepower, 5.5 liter V8. Though its 391 lb-ft. of torque isn't quite up to the GL320 CDI standards, the GL550 moves with authority at all speeds. Both the GL450 and GL550 are rated at 13 and 17 mpg in the city and highway, according to the EPA.
Outstandingly high seating comfort is assured by the multicontour front seats in black leather with seat climatisation. These offer first-class comfort on long journeys, even in mid-summer temperatures. They are accompanied by burr walnut wood trim, and the same, high-grade wood plus leather adorns the steering wheel and selector lever.
Standard equipment also includes a convenience telephony system in the armrest, with a universal interface for various mobile phone cradles, extended telephone functions, a charging function and an external aerial for optimum reception. Useful accessories include rubber mats for the footwells and load compartment, as well as a load compartment cover including additional stowage boxes.
reference:www.netcarshow.com,www.cars.com/www.leftlanenews.com
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