Features & Pricing

Excluding the destination charge, the GL320 Bluetec starts at $58,200, while the GL450 starts at $59,200. Both represent $3,000-plus increases over last year's prices, though larger standard wheels on the Bluetec and additional standard features — among them a six-CD changer and a moonroof — mitigate this a bit. Other standard features include four-wheel drive, faux leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a fixed third-row skylight and heated power front seats. The GL550 hikes the price considerably ($81,300) but comes standard with leather upholstery, keyless access with push-button start, a backup camera, heated second-row seats, Harman Kardon audio, xenon headlights and a navigation system. Many of those features are optional on lesser trims.

GL550 options include a rear-seat DVD system, upgraded leather and ventilated front seats. Fully loaded, the GL-Class tops out around $87,000.

    See also:

    Parcel nets
    WARNING Parcel nets are intended for storing lightweight items only, such as road maps, mail, etc. Heavy objects, objects with sharp edges, or fragile objects may not be transported in the ...

    Selecting the ideal shift range
    Pull the left-hand steering wheel paddle shifter and hold it in position. The automatic transmission shifts to the gear which allows optimum acceleration and deceleration. To do this, the auto ...

    Trailer towing
    When towing a trailer and driving downhill, shift to the lower gear if the automatic transmission constantly shifts between two gears. Engaging a lower gear and reducing the speed reduces the ...