Exterior & Styling

Particularly from the rear, the GL's appearance looks a bit like Mercedes' original M-Class — so much so that a passenger walked up to an older M thinking it was the GL. The GL550's 21-inch wheels, oversized grille and rubber-studded running boards give it a look similar to that of Mercedes' AMG performance cars — perhaps that was the intention, given there is no AMG GL-Class — and should secure the car a front-row spot at most valet stands. Lesser models can be dressed to match, albeit with a smaller grille.

Less-expensive GLs have 18- or 19-inch wheels. An optional offroad package raises the air suspension to yield 12 inches of ground clearance, 2 inches higher than a Hummer H2's. The package also includes a two-speed transfer case and locking center and rear differentials.

    See also:

    Stowing a used collapsible spare wheel
    Take the following steps to stow a used collapsible spare wheel. It will otherwise not fit in the spare wheel well. Mercedes-Benz recommends that you have this work carried out at a qualified ...

    Weight of optional extras
    The combined weight of those optional extras that weigh more than the replaced standard part and more than 2.3 kilograms (5 lbs). These optional extras, such as highperformance brakes, level co ...

    Side impact air bags
    WARNING The pressure sensors for side impact air bag control are located in the doors. Do not modify any components of the doors or door trim panels including, for example, the addition of d ...