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:

    Important safety notes
    You will find an illustration of the instrument cluster in the "At a glance" section. WARNING A driver's attention to the road and traffic conditions must always be his/her primary ...

    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 a ...

    Cargo tie-down rings
    Observe the following notes on securing loads: - secure the load using the cargo tie down rings. - do not use elastic straps or nets to secure a load, as these are only intended as an anti-s ...