The new Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
Comfort, safety, elegance, efficiency – the new GL-Class from Mercedes-Benz demonstrates leadership qualities in all the decisive SUV disciplines. Innovations such as the standard-specification Crosswind Assist, the Steer Control steering assistance system, the load recognition and the Collision Prevention Assist (CPA) increase active safety. Other new features to become optionally available are assistance systems such as Active Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist, together with a parking package incorporating an automatic function for entering and exiting parking spaces, plus a 360° camera. With excellent driving dynamics and high levels of ride comfort – both on the road and on difficult terrain – the GL-Class pampers its occupants with the first-class comfort of a luxury saloon. Seven passengers can enjoy an excellent amount of space. Numerous BlueEFFICIENCY measures significantly increase the energy efficiency: the GL 350 BlueTEC 4 MATIC diesel model, for instance, returns 38 mpg on the combined cycle, which is around a 20 percent improvement over the predecessor whilst also undercutting the future exhaust emission regulations in accordance with EU 6. In the case of the 408 hp GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY petrol model, the fuel consumption has been improved by about 18 percent.
Dr Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales & Marketing, has it spot on when he describes the new generation as follows: “The new GL-Class occupies the top position amongst luxury SUVs. With its comprehensive assistance systems it has a pioneering role where safety and comfort are concerned, and is on a par with an S-Class – even off the beaten track.” Even at first glance the 2012 GL-Class is recognisable as a characteristic representative of the Mercedes-Benz Sports Utility Vehicle family. This new interpretation of the first generation impresses with its powerful dynamism and sporty elegance. In the front area the hallmark GL upright radiator grille with its central star and the clear, high-quality design of the headlamps with an LED flare dominate. The daytime running lamps featuring LED technology are integrated in a chrome insert in the bumper, and beneath the radiator grille the generously sized chrome-look underguard completes the self-confident appearance of the front.
With its balanced proportions (length of 5120 mm, width of 2141 mm and height of 1850 mm) and the large wheelbase (measuring 3075 mm), the side view underlines the vehicle’s on-road emphasis. At the same time the short body overhangs at the front and rear, together with the high ground clearance, point to its off-road suitability. The hallmark-SUV high beltline with its high-quality trim, the feature line which rises dynamically and the chrome edging on the window surfaces highlight the vehicle’s effortlessly superior look.
As part of its standard specification the GL is shod with attractive 10-spoke 18?inch light-alloy wheels, and as an option wheels up to 53.3 cm (21 inches) are available. The tail end with two-piece LED tail lights featuring fibre optics, a large roof spoiler and the bumper in a contemporary “wing design” with a generously chromed underguard rounds off the befitting appearance of the luxurious full-size SUV.
For GL customers who place particular importance on a sporty, dynamic appearance, an extensive AMG Exterior Sports package is now available for the first time. In addition to the hallmark-AMG front and rear apron, it also offers special wheel-arch flarings, which span over the 53.3 cm (21-inch) AMG 5?twin-spoke light-alloy wheels. Illuminated aluminium-look running boards also form part of the pack, as do perforated brake discs and brake calliper covers with Mercedes-Benz lettering.
