Exterior & Styling

Particularly from the rear, the GL's appearance looks a bit like Mercedes' original M-Class. The 21-inch wheels, oversized grille and chrome running boards on my test car gave it a look similar to that of Mercedes' AMG performance cars — perhaps that was the intention, given that there is no AMG GL-Class — and should secure the car a front-row spot at most valet stands.

Less-expensive GLs have 18- or 19-inch wheels. An optional offroad package on the GL450 raises the air suspension to yield 12 inches of ground clearance — some 2 inches higher than a Hummer H2's. The package also has a two-speed transfer case and locking center and rear differentials.

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    Exterior
    Derived from a coupe study that appeared at the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany, the four-door CLS-Class features a high belt line and short side glass. A distinctive body crease rises from t ...

    Folding the exterior mirrors in or out automatically
    This function is only available in vehicles for Canada. If the "Fold in mirrors when locking" function is activated in the on-board computer: • the exterior mirrors fold in automatical ...

    Traction
    WARNING The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characterist ...