Cue the drumroll and the Hollywood bright lights – Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a new series in the Sports Utility Vehicle line, the GL-Class. This seven-seater off-roader is not only an excellent out-of-city terrain vehicle, it also meets all expectations one would have for Mercedes-Benz in terms of premium delivery and pampered luxury. And perhaps, with a few unexpected surprises too.
The GL-Class is all about superlative comfort, whatever the conditions. The vehicle is spacious with ample space to accommodate it’s seven seats and a luggage capacity of up to 2300 litres. Headroom and legroom is also generous, ensuring that all passengers have freedom of movement no matter where they are sitting. Bottoms are catered for through ARTICO man-made leather upholstery combinations, and stargazers will enjoy the fixed rear glass roof above the third row of seats. If fewer seats are required however, the rear individual seats can be stowed electronically at a simple push of a button (of course!). Climate control is also superb. Each GL-Class is fitted with the THERMATIC automatic climate control system that maintains a consistent temperature for all seven seats from summer, right through to winter.
Whether on or off-road, the GL-Class is a majestic ride in all environments. Models come with either the new V6 or V8 engine, giving the vehicle an ultra-modern edge that provides compelling performance and superior fuel consumption when compared with other vehicles in the same market segment. The new-generation high-performance V8 diesel in the GL 420 CDI for instance, has an output of 225 KW / 306 hp and a maximum torque of 700 Nm.
The vehicle is also 4MATIC, meaning that it uses a permanent four-wheel drive that provides the GL-Class with superior handling no matter what the conditions. Particularly for off-road driving, the GL-Class has a fistful of speciality features such as Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR), hill-start assist and off-road ABS. Combined with the AIRMATIC air suspension, the precise speed-sensitive power steering and the ADS Adaptive Damper System, driving the GL-Class through cities or through the great outdoors is sure to be nothing short of spectacular.
Specs aside, the Mercedes Benz GL-Class is definitely a looker. You wouldn’t realise it’s durability and versatility just by looking at it. It’s distinctive design of calm body surfaces, powerful, wedge-shaped features and stunning details, gives the GL-Class a striking presence even when stationary.
Get seated behind the wheel here… Welcome to the land of possibilities and opulence.
