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.

    See also:

    LATCH-type (ISOFIX) child seat anchors in the rear
    WARNING Children that are too large for a child restraint must travel in seats using normal seat belts. Position shoulder belt across the chest and shoulder, not face or neck. In order to atta ...

    Setting the map scale
    To hide the menu: slide the COMAND controller and, when the Full screen menu item is shown, press . To call up the scale bar: as soon as you turn the COMAND controller, scale bar 3 ap ...

    Adjusting the four-way lumbar support
    You can adjust the contour of the front seat backrests individually to provide optimum support for your back. 1. To raise the backrest contour 2. To soften the backrest contour 3. To lo ...