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:

    Operating the panorama roof with power tilt/sliding panel
    Opening and closing Overhead control panel 1 To raise 2 To open 3 To close/lower The panorama roof with power tilt/sliding panel can only be operated when the roller sunblind is open. Tur ...

    Activating/deactivating air-recirculation mode
    You can deactivate the flow of fresh air if unpleasant odors are entering the vehicle from outside. The air already inside the vehicle will then be recirculated. The operation of air-recirculat ...

    Please bear the following in mind
    At the onset of winter, have your vehicle winterproofed at a qualified specialist workshop, e.g. at an authorized Mercedes- Benz Center. Observe the notes in the "Changing a wheel" ...