Introducing the All New 2013 GL-Class

Exceptional handling, innovative safety features and a luxurious cabin for seven converge in the next-generation full-size SUV from Mercedes-Benz.

When we first invented the seven-passenger GL-Class in 2006, it was with one goal in mind: to build the world’s best full-size luxury SUV. And in the eyes of many, that’s precisely what we did. But if we’ve learned anything over the last 125+ years, it’s that the most rewarding laurels come from never resting on them. So we set ourselves to the task of making the best even better. The result is the all-new 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class — three rows of incomparable luxury, groundbreaking safety, extraordinary handling and prodigious yet efficient performance.

From the outside, the next-generation GL-Class retains its elegant proportions, but boasts an even more athletic physique, with sharper lines running along the vehicle’s powerful flanks. Underscored by LED Running Lights, sleek new headlights sit on either side of the commanding front grill with integrated Three-Pointed Star. Brilliant roof rails, a stainless steel front skid plate and a host of chrome accents — including new trim that frames the GL’s signature expanse of side windows — add eye-catching refinement. And bringing up the rear, a chiseled stainless steel underguard, LED taillamps and a pronounced roof spoiler contribute sporty sophistication.

Under the 2013 GL’s sculpted hood await any one of three advanced engines that wield great power with remarkable efficiency. In the GL350 BlueTEC, a turbocharged clean diesel V-6 delivers 240 hp and an impressive 455 lb-ft of torque. Powering the GL450 and GL550 is a twin-turbo Direct-Injection V-8, specially tuned to generate 362 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque in the former, and no less than 429 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque in the latter. In each model, that considerable power is channeled and its delivery refined by a silky 7-speed automatic transmission.

Enter the spacious interior of the reimagined GL-Class, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by the kind of meticulous craftsmanship and uncommon luxury that can come only from Mercedes-Benz. Behind a new, leather-wrapped steering wheel sits a wholly redesigned dashboard, spanned by a generous swath of hand-polished wood. Trimmed in a freshened selection of upholstery colors and combinations, the cabin offers amenities such as front seats with massage and multicolor ambient lighting — both standard in the GL550 — not to mention seamlessly integrated technology. The available COMAND system with navigation, enhanced voice control and 6-disc CD/DVD changer can be complemented with an 11-speaker, premium surround-sound system by harman/kardon.  And, as do nearly all 2013 Mercedes-Benz models, the GL-Class comes standard with our industry-leading mbrace2 technology suite.

Beyond the front seats, the all-new GL-Class shows careful consideration for every occupant. Passengers can enjoy the available rear-seat entertainment system, or plug into a new 115-volt outlet in the second row, which tilts forward on command for convenient third-row access, thanks to the power EASY-ENTRY system. Then there’s the optional Panorama sunroof, designed to offer sweeping skyward views. And if it’s not people, but cargo, you’re planning to move, both rows fold completely flat — the third at the touch of a button — to provide up to 94 cubic feet of space.

Perhaps even more extraordinary than the comfort of its cabin, however, is the on- and off-road comfort the next-generation GL-Class delivers. Thanks to advanced “unibody” construction and a self-leveling AIRMATIC air suspension, it handles and maneuvers like a vehicle half its size, while effortless steering comes courtesy of electromechanical technology. The all-weather control of 4MATIC all-wheel drive comes with the territory, as does Trailer Stability Assist, which can automatically compensate for trailer sway when you’re taking advantage of the GL’s 7,500-lb towing capacity. Further adding to your confidence behind the wheel is the standard rear view camera, not to mention available Active Park Assist with Surround View — an innovative system that employs four vehicle-mounted cameras to display a bird’s-eye view of the GL and its surroundings on the COMAND display.

With any Mercedes-Benz, you can expect first-class luxury to be paired with world-class safety. And the all-new GL-Class is no exception. Accompanying 13-way airbag protection, our pioneering PRE-SAFE® system and ATTENTION ASSIST driver-drowsiness monitoring is new Collision Prevention Assist, which can alert the driver and prepare the brakes for maximum stopping power if it detects an impending collision. Additional peace of mind is available through the innovative Lane Tracking Package — featuring Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist — and the even more advanced Driver Assistance Package, which combines “active” versions of Lane Keeping and Blind Spot Assist with DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control and PRE-SAFE® Brake.

When faced with improving something already considered extraordinary, you have two choices: Leave well enough alone or rise to the challenge. But at Meredes-Benz there’s only one acceptable option. Because when your mission is to deliver “the best or nothing,” it’s your job to continually redefine what it means to be the best. And it’s precisely that philosophy which makes the 2013 GL-Class not merely the world’s best full-size luxury SUV — but one of the best vehicles on earth.

Look for the all-new 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class in dealerships this fall.

Source: http://www.mbusa.com/