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:

    Telescopic rod
    The telescopic rod can be used to secure the load against the rear seats to prevent it from moving around. ► Insert one mounting element 2 into each loading rail. ► Turn mounting el ...

    Door control panel
    1 Opens the door 2 Unlocks/locks the vehicle 3 Stores settings for the seat, exterior mirrors and steering wheel 4 Adjusts the seat electrically 5 Adjusts and folds the exterior m ...

    Activating/deactivating Lane Keeping Assist
    You can use the Lane Keep. Asst. function to activate/deactivate Lane Keeping Assist (Y page 200) or Active Lane Keeping Assist. – Press the or button on the steering wheel to select the Dri ...