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:

    ETS/4ETS (Electronic Traction System)
    WARNING Observe "Important safety notes". Traction control is part of ESP®. Traction control brakes the drive wheels individually if they spin. This enables you to pull away and acc ...

    Important safety notes
    WARNING Make sure absolutely no objects are obstructing the pedals' range of movement. Keep the driver's footwell clear of all obstacles. If there are any floormats or carpets in the footwel ...

    Safety notes
    WARNING   Work improperly carried out on electronic components and associated software could cause them to cease functioning. Because the vehicle's electronic components are interconnec ...