Regarded by many as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class of off-road vehicles and a car so vast it makes the ML-Class look like a shy hatchback, the new Mercedes-Benz GL-Class 4×4 SUV has arrived on our shores. Measuring 5 120 mm long, 1 850 mm tall and riding on a 3 075 mm wheelbase, Mercedes-Benz says the premium SUV demonstrates exceptional capabilities in all everyday driving situations, including: dense city traffic; over very winding roads; on motorways; as well as way off the beaten track. With multi-talented qualities and the superior comfort of a seven-seater layout, its outstanding power and confident performance are convincing even when the going gets tough.
With the change of models, the GL-Class is enriched by an AMG version for the very first time. In the high-performance SUV GL 63 AMG, the AMG 5.5-litre V8 Biturbo engine provides a top performance of 410 kW and maximum torque of 760 Nm. The GL 63 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, has a limited top speed of 250 km/h and fuel consumption is 12.3 L/100 km with emissions of 288 g/km.
As another first for the SUV, Mercedes-Benz is offering an optional sound system for the GL 63 AMG from the well-known manufacturers of music systems, Bang & Olufsen. The Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG High-End Surround-Sound System with a total output of 1200 W and 14 high-end loudspeakers, transforms the interior of the car’s sound performance. For the range as a whole, with NVH qualities (noise, vibration, harshness) on par with S-Class, high standards of comfort in the GL-Class are derived from the combined result of a very rigid body-shell, a smooth drivetrain, improved chassis, better aero acoustic finishing, as well as the use of new-style insulation materials.
Included in the standard GL-Class package is the fully load-bearing air suspension system Airmatic with its adaptive shock-absorbing system (ADS), as well as a load recognition feature. In comparison with the previous model, the Airmatic ADS provides improved handling, road-holding and driving dynamics. Both the standard Crosswind Assist and load recognition feature are able to compensate for varying driving conditions. The active tilting stabiliser Active Curve System uses its lateral stabilisers for the front and rear axles to reduce the roll angle when driving round bends. At the same time, the system makes for better handling and an improved ride and increased scope when driving off-road.
The standard GL-Class package also includes the permanent four-wheel drive ’4Matic’ system, a driving-off assistant, Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) and a special program for off-road driving. This includes six driving programs, so that the most suitable drive control for extremely varying driving conditions, both on the road and going cross-country, is always available. From a ‘hardware’ point of view, it comprises an under-run protection for the engine, fibre-reinforced under-floor panelling, a two-stage power transmission with reduction gears, a longitudinal differential lock and extended Airmatic functions, allowing a maximum ground clearance of 306 mm and fording depth of 600 mm.
As is always the case with any new Mercedes-Benz, the manufacturer has pushed the boat out on its numerous assistant systems. In addition to the handling control systems ESP, ASR, ABS and the danger-alert Pre-Safe safety concept, for the first time the GL is also fitted as standard with Collision Prevention Assist and the drowsiness detector Attention Assist. New functions such as load recognition or Steer Control reduce the strain on the driver in critical driving situations. Also available to optimise the safety of the vehicle are optional systems such as distance control Distronic Plus, braking assistant (BAS Plus) or the Pre-Safe brake with its autonomous braking function.
In terms of engines, both the BlueTEC engine for the GL 350 BlueTEC 4Matic and the GL 500 4Matic BlueEfficiency with direct injection BlueDirect petrol engine give efficient performance. The fuel consumption of the GL 350 BlueTEC 4Matic is 7.5 L/100 km, which is about 20% less than its predecessor, while CO2 emissions of 209 g/km make it best in its class. The fuel consumption of the 320 kW petrol engine GL 500 4Matic BlueEfficiency has been reduced by 18%, with CO2 emissions of 269 g/km.
In addition to the state-of-the-art engine technology, an extensive BlueEfficiency package supports the outstandingly economic fuel consumption gains from a 90 kg weight saving, along with 7G-Tronic Plus, as well as the standard Eco engine stop/start function. The intelligent generator management, electric power steering and reduced rolling resistance of the tyres also have a fuel-saving effect.
In addition to the comfortable ride, the GL-Class spoils its passengers with an interior which comes up to the first class standards of a luxurious saloon for up to seven passengers. The 2-3-2 seating arrangement provides a generous amount of space. In comparison with its predecessor, the passengers have been given more elbow, shoulder and headroom in all three rows of seats. As a standard feature, the third row of seats can be folded down and up electrically. Another innovation is the Easy-Entry system for accessing the third row of seats from both sides with optional electric controls.
| Pricing (incl. VAT and C02 Tax) | |
| Mercedes-Benz GL 350 4Matic | R966 246 |
| Mercedes-Benz GL 500 4Matic | R1 106 859 |
| Mercedes-Benz GL 63 AMG | R1 669 636 |
Pricing includes a 6-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
