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:

    Charging the battery
    WARNING Never charge a battery still installed in the vehicle unless a battery charger unit approved by Mercedes-Benz is being used. Gases may escape during charging and cause explosions tha ...

    Folding the exterior mirrors in or out automatically
    If the "Fold in mirrors when locking" function is activated in the on-board computer: - the exterior mirrors fold in automatically as soon as you lock the vehicle from the outside. - ...

    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-sli ...