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December 12, 2014
Mercedes-Benz's flagship SUV, the GL-Class, is redesigned | Mercedes-benz
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
Mercedes-Benz's Flagship SUV, the GL-Class, Undergoes a Model Change
Daimler has updated its flagship SUV in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the "GL-Class," and unveiled it at the New York International Auto Show.
Text by HORIGUCHI Yoshihiro (OPENERS)
An Even More Powerful V12 Unit
The GL-Class, based on the M-Class with an extended interior, is the top-tier, 7-seater model in the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup. This model change enhances its environmental performance and further improves comfort and safety through various electronic devices, all while maintaining its impressive dimensions of 5,120mm in length, 2,141mm in width, 1,850mm in height, and a 3,075mm wheelbase.
Among the two models unveiled in New York, the "GL550 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY" is equipped with a 4.6-liter V8 twin-turbo engine that produces a maximum output of 300kW (408ps) at 5,000-5,750rpm and a maximum torque of 600Nm at 1,600-4,750rpm. It drives all four wheels, achieving 0-100km/h in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 250km/h.
The other model is the "GL350 BlueTEC 4MATIC," powered by a 3.0-liter V6 BlueTEC diesel engine. It delivers a maximum output of 190kW (258ps) at 1,600-2,400rpm. Benefiting from the characteristic torque of a diesel engine, its maximum torque surpasses that of the GL550, reaching 620Nm at 1,600-2,400rpm.
Fuel efficiency is achieved through features like the idling stop system, direct fuel injection, and a 7-speed automatic transmission. The GL550 achieves 11.3-11.6 L/100km (approximately 8.6-8.8 km/L) with CO2 emissions of 262-269g/km. The diesel-powered GL350 offers fuel efficiency of 7.4-8.0 L/100km (approximately 12.5-13.5 km/L) and CO2 emissions of 192-209g/km.
In terms of safety, it features "Active Lane Keeping Assist," which automatically corrects lane departures.
It is equipped with numerous active safety features utilizing electronic devices, such as "Active Blind Spot Assist," which warns of other vehicles in blind spots to the rear sides, and Park Assist with a surround view camera. Furthermore, it offers a comfortable ride on both on-road and off-road conditions, with self-leveling air suspension that not only adapts to ground irregularities but also counteracts crosswinds to ensure vehicle stability. Additionally, an optional "Active Curve System" is available, where the front and rear axles act as anti-roll bars, suppressing body roll during cornering and allowing for stable passage through curves even at high speeds.
The GL-Class boasts a ride quality comparable to the S-Class, even on rough roads. The interior exudes a sense of luxury and spaciousness with its wood-grained dashboard emphasizing width and abundant use of leather. For those with a sportier inclination, the new optional "AMG Exterior Sports Package" is also noteworthy.
Sales in the United States are scheduled to begin within the year.

