Market launch of the new Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: Show time for the new GL

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Having only recently been decorated with the "2012 Golden Steering Wheel" award, the GL-Class is now available with immediate effect in showrooms. Often referred to in the international press as the "all-terrain, seven-seater S-Class", the GL-Class boasts a broad power output range as well as an attractive price-performance ratio. The GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC diesel model, for example, features extended standard equipment yet offers customers a €4000 saving over the preceding model.

The GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY impresses with its modern and efficient V8 petrol engine and a level of appointments which has been enhanced even further. Here the saving over the preceding model is almost €1800. The star of the model range is the high-performance GL 63 AMG SUV.

The new GL models come with a wide variety of equipment which was either not available, or only available at additional cost, on the preceding models. This includes comfort details such as electric sliding sunroof, electrically operated EASY-PACK tailgate, EASY ENTRY system for convenient access to the third row of seats from both sides, high-dampening acoustic windscreen or electromechanical steering. In the interior, the scope of standard equipment comprises a colour screen with photo-realistic display or dashboard finished in ARTICO man-made leather. In addition, the GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY also offers Active Parking Assist including PARKTRONIC, the Intelligent Light System, the KEYLESS-GO access and drive authorisation system, 3-zone THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control or multicontour seats for driver and front passenger including massage function and genuine leather upholstery.

Also available for the first time as a high-performance SUV, Mercedes-AMG has enhanced the main stylistic features of the GL – powerful dynamism and sporty elegance – using specific elements that emphasise the flagship V8 model's exceptional performance. A specially designed transfer case has therefore been used for the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, which distributes the drive power to the front and rear axle at a ratio of 40:60 in the interests of dynamic handling. The AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with AIRMATIC package – consisting of air suspension, special damper struts, automatic level control and Adaptive Damping System (ADS) – is combined with the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM for active roll stabilisation.

Exclusivity and dynamism also dominate in the interior of the GL 63 AMG. All seven seats in the high-performance SUV are covered in high-quality leather, as is the centre armrest. Electrically adjustable AMG sports seats feature double topstitching in a contrasting colour and AMG badges on the front seat backrests and outer rear seat backrests. The dashboard, armrests and door panelling come in ARTICO man-made leather with double topstitching.

Not to be overlooked as part of the added-value details fitted as standard to the new GL are also the new engines, which boast better performance with increased output and torque, while at the same time enabling a reduction in fuel consumption levels. As a result, the 190 kW (258 hp) GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC achieves an NEDC consumption of 7.4 l/100 km. The V8 petrol model, the GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, produces 320 kW (435 hp) and powerful torque levels of 700 Nm while consuming just 11.3 l/100 km (NEDC). In the GL 63 AMG, exclusive AMG appointment details and a V8 biturbo petrol engine producing 410 kW (557 hp) and 760 Nm of torque all add up to a unique driving experience.

Prices* at a glance:

- GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC: €60,900 (€72,471)
- GL 500 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY: €79,500 (€94,605)
- GL 63 AMG: €109,500 (€130,305)

* non-binding recommended price excluding (including) 19% VAT for the German market

Credits: Daimler AG

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