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:

    Driving over obstacles
    Obstacles could damage the floor of the vehicle or components of the chassis. Ask passengers for guidance when driving over large obstacles. The passenger should always keep a safe dist ...

    Checking tire pressure manually
    To determine and set the correct tire pressure, proceed as follows: Remove the valve cap of the tire that is to be checked. Press the tire pressure gauge securely onto the valve. Read the ...

    Extending/retracting from the driver's seat
    Make sure that the roller sunblind can move freely. Otherwise, the roller sunblind or other objects could be damaged. At temperatures below -4 °F (-20 °C), the roller sunblind cannot be operat ...