Mercedes-Benz SUVs of the future: GLA, MLC, GLC and more to come

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Sports Utility Vehicle will never go old-fashioned or at least not in the next 10 to 15 years. Mercedes-Benz, as inventor of the modern SUV with the first generation M-Class (W 163) back in 1997, has mastered a strategy to increase profitability and revenue, in addition to exploring new fields and attracting new clients towards the brand. The plan is to fill any niche and any gap still left empty with all-rounding models such as crossovers and SUVs in almost all classes and size categories.

The portfolio of Mercedes-Benz is already heavily filled with various SUVs to suit different tastes. The GLK is the dynamic lifestyle to travel around in big cities, the M-Class is the all-time leader and the most faithful business partner, the GL-Class is suitable for those who want to set themselves apart from the crowd and admire true luxury and sheer elegance, the G-Class is for the adventurous client looking for off-road excitement, whereas the R-Class is a one-of-a-kind proposal in the automotive industry, combining the attributes of a modern station wagon, a van and an all-terrain vehicle into a VIP shuttle body of a crossover.

Five distinct models, each having their targeted customer group and clearly defined role, is still not enough, according to the plans we have found out. Mercedes-Benz mulls over several new additions to the fleet in the next years. The first to come out is the all new GLA, company's first compact SUV. Entitled Cross Activity Vehicle (CAV), the new model has already been previewed at the Auto China 2013, where Mercedes-Benz unveiled the Concept GLA. The serial version comes in September at Frankfurt and will basically be fairly similar to the showcar, like the A-Class and CLA-Class in their respective cases. The muscular, yet very dynamic and coupe-ish silhouette, combined with the higher ground clearance and the multiple appointments, will certainly translate into a boost of sales right from the market release of the X 156.

MLC, company's first Sports Utility Coupe, is next on the list. The C 292 project will become reality as soon as late 2014, with production starting at Tuscaloosa the following year. The new MLC-Class will get the underpinnings from the M-Class, but engineers will further tweak the platform to make it sportier and more responsive. Styling will be totally different, with the new rakish roof line setting the model apart from the standard SUV in the lineup. The four-door/four-seat architecture will add a dose of practicality and exclusiveness. The latest breakthroughs in ride management, assistance technology and telematics will find their onto the new SUC from Mercedes-Benz: the upgraded COMAND Online with touchpad, the Head-Up Display, the enhanced ATTENTION ASSIST, the Night View Assist Plus with improved person/animal recognition, the new generation 4MATIC and the state-of-the-art ON&OFFROAD Package available as an option. Most engines to power the new MLC will be brand new. If the petrol choices will consist of efficient BlueDIRECT V6 and V8 units, the diesel version will carry the BlueTEC badge. As the MLC is an upscale niche model, the baseline variant will be the MLC 250 BlueTEC with 211 hp, followed by the MLC 300 with 252 hp and the MLC 350 BlueTEC with 258 hp. Further, the MLC 350 with 306 hp might still be kept for a while, whereas the MLC 400 will reach 333 hp. The range-topping models will be the MLC 500 with 435 hp (or 455 hp) and the MLC 63 AMG with 557 hp coming towards 2016.

In 2015, one year after the 205 series for C-Class is unveiled, the second generation GLK is slated to showcase during spring. The new X 205 will be a complete departure from the current boxy model. A different philosophy will make the GLK look modern and youthful, with barely any direct linkage to the G-Class like the current model has. The new mid-sized SUV will be underpinned by the new MRA rear-wheel-driven platform that will be accomodated to receive the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, which shall be available on most versions except for the entry-level GLKs. From 2016, an SUC will also join the portfolio. The future GLC will follow the footprints of the MLC, which means a coupe greenhouse fitted to a four-door body. The GLC-Class will share the technical equipment with the new GLK, which also borrows its systems and engines from the new C-Class. While AMG models are still in doubt, the new GLK 400 and GLC 400, both boasting a maximum output of 333 hp from a 3.0-litre V6 BlueDIRECT engine, will be the available high-end variants. The new straight-six petrol powerplants with bi- or tri-turbocharging are prone to debut in around three years from now, so probably the current "V" units will then be replaced for the GLK and GLC as well, together with a power boost up to around 360 hp.

We have previously reported on the so-entitled GLG mini-sized city SUV. It seems rumors are intensifying and this all new, retro-styled crossover harking to the G-Class is closer and closer to production form. Last year's ENER-G-FORCE study revealed at the LA Auto Show in November might hint at the design direction adopted for the GLG. Anyway, the new lifestyle crossover will have a total length of exactly 4 meters and will use the MFA chassis, in an adapted variant, from the new GLA. 4MATIC will be an option, otherwise front drive will be the standard architecture for the GLG. The engines will consist of efficient Daimler-Renault developed powerplants; the anticipated 3-cylinder low displacement diesel and gasoline units could also power the GLG beginning with 2017. An AMG version is ruled out at the moment, as the GLG 250 4MATIC with 211 hp and the 7G-DCT automatic gearbox is simply more than enough for the needs of the targeted clients. If it ever gets greenlighted, the baby G-Class should hit streets by mid-2016.

We also suspect Mercedes-Benz is looking at the possibility of releasing a top luxury class SUV in the new S-Class portfolio. With over five meters in length, a high-grade design and bespoke technology from the W 222 generation, the new top 4x4 car should be entitled GLS and concur other exquisite opponents such as the future Bentley and Rolls-Royce SUVs. If such a model gets the approval of the executive board of Daimler AG, then we could witness the appearance of the GLS on streets around 2017 or 2018.

It is still unclear whether Mercedes-Benz will axe the R-Class or it will release a new generation of the model after 2015. Past reports were indicating the future R-Class will be strongly based on the next generation E-Class (W 213) scheduled to bow in around two years. The car would retain the wagon body, but also get more dynamic, appealing and garnished with the latest technology.

This is, all in all, the sketch of the new outlook for the future at Mercedes-Benz. Along with the standard high-volume models like the C-Class and E-Class, the SUV/SUC range will ensure a substantial growth for the Stuttgart-based constructor in the following years. As a consistent part of the Mercedes-Benz 2020 strategy, through which the Germans target the top position in the premium automotive industry by the end of this decade, the new lineup of niche vehicles must be close to perfect, if not fully perfect, to succeed in a world with ever more competitors.

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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SPY: Mercedes-Benz begins development of the new 2015 MLC-Class (C 292)

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In 2015, Mercedes-Benz will start production for a new model series at the US-based plant Tuscaloosa, Alabama: the MLC-Class will be company's first-ever SUV coupe. Initial photos and details should be officially issued by mid-December 2014, with the official introduction slated for NAIAS Detroit the following year and the market release later on in spring.

Internally codenamed C 292, the new MLC sits on a modified ML-Class chassis. We expect the vehicle will be substantially longer than its brother and also more dynamic and refined. The development stage kicked off recently, with photographers spotting an entire fleet of W 166 test mules for the future SUV coupe being deployed in Germany along with some BMW X6 vehicles, whom the MLC-Class is directly aimed at. First real test prototypes, featuring a finished design hidden under the camouflage, could hit streets in about four months from now.

As seen from the spy shots, the rear wings on the ML models are modified to accomodate the new components of the MLC-Class chassis. The car will be standardly equipped with the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive traction, tweaked for best on-road performance and a sports ride. The ON & OFFROAD package with integrated management will be offered as an option, like for the ML and GL.

We cannot be very imaginative regarding the exterior design of the C 292. The tons of renditions that appeared since this model was rumored a few years ago might offer just a mild impression, miles different from the real car. Although it is not entirely a coupe (not if you count the number of doors), we expect Mercedes-Benz designers will deliver a spectacular exercise of style and elegance, paying a tribute to the 2-door models of the constructor into a very modern interpretation.

More details --> PREVIEW: Mercedes-Benz starts an aggressive offensive of coupe vehicles

Image Credits: Gmotors.co.uk

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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New-Generation Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Sport Utility Vehicle Hits the U.S. Roads

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This week, U.S. journalists are test-driving the very first new-generation 2013 GL-Class sport utility vehicles arriving in the U.S. The second-generation of the award-winning Mercedes-Benz GL-Class sport utility is making its debut for the 2013 model year. The launch of the new full-size GL marks the introduction of a significant new safety system, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, which uses a dedicated radar sensor to monitor the distance to a vehicle in front and to stationary objects. If the system senses a risk of imminent collision, it pre-charges the brakes and alerts the driver with a warning beep and flashing light on the dash.

Many New Safety Systems

The new GL-Class is loaded with other new safety systems such as ATTENTION ASSIST, ADAPTIVE BRAKE technology, mbrace2 telematics and Crosswind Stabilization. Slightly longer, wider and taller than the first-generation SUV, new convenience features include a COMAND control knob, a color instrument cluster display, power liftgate, and a 115-volt outlet under the second-row seats.

Among the new GL options are an ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM, On/Off-Road Package, Active Parking Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, a 360-degree Surround View camera, Panorama Roof and power EASY-ENTRY for third-row passengers.

The 2013 GL Lineup

The new GL model lineup for 2013 ranges from the fuel-sipping GL350 BlueTEC (240 hp, 455 lb.-ft.) with a V6 turbodiesel to the high-performance GL63 AMG (550 hp, 560 lb.-ft.) that’s powered by a hand-built AMG 5.5-liter biturbo, direct injection V8. Between these two contrasting models are the popular GL450 (362 hp, 406 lb.-ft.) and GL550 (429 hp, 516 lb.-ft.), both equipped with new direct-injection biturbo V8 engines.

Electromechanical Rack-And-Pinion Steering

The 2013 GL-Class comes with new electrically-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. Not only does the new electric steering provide built-in speed-dependent power assist, but it also offers fuel savings. The engine no longer has to turn a hydraulic power steering pump, and the new steering only uses electrical power when the wheel is being turned. Mounted ahead of the front wheel center, the steering gear unit has a variable mechanical ratio that operates more directly, or slightly faster, in the center position, which enhances agility and handling.

Active Parking Assist

The new electric steering assist also makes other innovative systems possible, such as optional Active Parking Assist, which makes parallel parking a stress-free cinch. Below about 20 mph, a “P” icon appears in the dash to show that an electronic search for a parking space is active, and whenever an adequate-size parking space is found, an arrow appears next to the “P” icon. When reverse is engaged and the driver confirms Active Parking Assist is desired, the system initiates automatic steering as the driver controls acceleration and braking at speeds below seven mph. The system allows two forward corrections, after which the wheels are straightened. Active Parking Assist also includes an automatic exit feature.

ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM

Not to be confused with Active Curve Illumination, the optional ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM is a semi-active suspension that uses electronic sensors, an engine-driven hydraulic pump and electronically controlled hydraulic valves to reduce body lean. Instead of conventional torsional stabilizer bars at the front and rear, the stabilizer bars in the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM are essentially split in the center and connected to rotary hydraulic actuators.

Whenever the vehicle is in a curve, the actuators counteract lateral pitching, reducing the natural tendency of the body to roll and lean in curves. Lower side forces means increased stability and driving pleasure, especially at high speeds, as well as less shifting of occupants.

On/Off-Road Package

An optional On/Off-Road package features a two-speed electronically controlled transfer case that gives the GL-Class true off-road capability. High range provides 1:1 on-road gearing, and selecting low range engages a 2.93:1 ratio for impressive off-road control and climbing ability.

The On/Off-Road package includes an Off-Road switch on the center console that activates special computer algorithms to enhance engine, transmission, ABS, ESP, traction control performance in off-road conditions. In addition, a six-position rotary dial allows the system to be customized, including selecting low range, engaging a center differential lock and increasing ground clearance in increments of 1.2, 2.4, and 3.5 inches.

4MATIC Four-Wheel Drive Sets a Trend

All four GL models come with proven Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC all-wheel drive. As modern all-wheel-drive systems become more refined, they are becoming more popular, especially in the luxury car market. With negligible weight and fuel-efficiency tradeoffs, full-time four-wheel drive provides year-round traction and stability benefits on both wet and dry roads.

ATTENTION ASSIST Cautions “Time For A Rest?“

Among the many new life-saving features on the GL-Class is the innovative ATTENTION ASSIST system that can alert the driver to the first signs of drowsiness, a factor that causes more than 100,000 accidents a year in the U.S. A steering sensor is coupled to smart software that uses 70 parameters to establish a unique driver profile during the first 20 minutes of driving. Between 50 and 112 mph, the system identifies the erratic steering corrections drivers make as they begin to get drowsy and triggers an audible warning, and a “Time for a Rest?” message with a coffee cup icon appears in the instrument cluster.

More Safety Systems Assist the Driver

Other examples of trailblazing safety innovations include: Active Lane Keeping Assist, which alerts the driver by simulating rumble strip vibration in the steering wheel if the car drifts from its lane without the turn signals on. It operates at speeds above 37 mph via a system that recognizes lane markings, thanks to a small camera in the windshield and a computer that analyzes the video images. Active Lane Keeping Assist incorporates an intervention feature, in which ESP braking automatically helps correct the car’s course if the driver doesn’t heed the initial warning.

Active Blind Spot Assist monitors both blind spots behind and to the side of the vehicle. Whenever a turn signal is activated with a vehicle in the blind spot, the driver gets visual and audible warnings. Active Blind Spot Assist also incorporates the ESP intervention feature, which automatically helps correct the car’s course if the driver doesn’t heed the initial warning.

Mercedes-Benz Safety is Standard

The new COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system monitors the distance to vehicles in front and to stationary objects with a dedicated radar sensor. If the system senses a risk of imminent collision, it alerts the driver with a warning beep and flashing light on the dash. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST also networks with standard Brake Assist to prepare for emergency braking, so that maximum power assist is available as soon as the driver applies the brakes.

In addition to standard COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, The GL-Class line comes with ESP® stability control, ABS anti-lock brakes, two-stage adaptive air bags for the driver and front passenger, driver’s knee air bag, seat-mounted side air bags in front and rear, curtain side air bags and adaptive belt tensioners and belt force limiters.

PRE-SAFE® Gives The GL-Class Reflexes to Protect Occupants

Standard on the new GL, PRE-SAFE® is a revolutionary safety system that can actually sense an impending collision before it happens and take measures to protect occupants during those valuable seconds before impact. The PRE-SAFE system automatically tightens the front seat belts before a possible impact, and, on some models, the front passenger seat moves to a position that can provide better protection. Side windows close to provide better support for the curtain air bags, and if the system senses an impending rollover, the sunroof also closes.

Rich, Sporty Interiors with Flexible Cargo Space

The exterior appearance of the new GL line includes sleek bumpers and front grille, chrome window trim and front and rear skid plates. LED technology is used for taillights and daytime running lights.

Inside, the luxury SUVs are fitted with heated power front seats, genuine wood trim and a retractable glass sunroof. New options include a double-sized power Panorama sunroof with a fixed glass panel over the third-row seats and multi-color ambient lighting.

The two third-row seats can be stowed electrically at the push of a button, either separately or together, to provide a totally flat cargo floor. For easy access to the 3rd-row seats from both sides, a manual EASY-ENTRY feature is standard. Optionally available is power EASYENTRY folding of the second-row seats.

All GL-Class models feature four-wheel independent suspension and height-adjustable AIRMATIC suspension for unprecedented comfort and handling. The GL550 can be easily identified by a unique exterior styling treatment that includes fender flares, more aggressive front and rear aprons, chrome trim and 21-inch AMG wheels.

In Command with COMAND

A standard COMAND system features a high-resolution seven-inch color display screen with a COMAND controller, AM / FM / HD radio, in-dash, six-disc DVD / CD changer and a Bluetooth interface that allows a phone still in a pocket or purse to be operated through the car’s audio system. It can be equipped with an optional iPod/MP3 interface, SIRIUS satellite radio and enhanced voice control. The COMAND screen can play tracks stored on a data CD, DVD or SD memory card.

The system can also display maps and directions for the optional hard-drive navigation system, which can be set up for SIRIUS real-time traffic info and Zagat restaurant ratings as well. All GL-Class models can be equipped with an optional 830-watt 14-speaker digital harman / kardon Logic7 audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system that includes two eight-inch screens, wireless headphones and an integrated DVD player that enables dual-source capability.

GL350 BlueTEC Boasts Impressive Fuel Economy

Available in all 50 states, thanks to an innovative AdBlue exhaust treatment system that helps the diesel meet the most stringent emissions limits, the diesel-powered GL350 BlueTEC delivers impressive performance, low exhaust emissions and great fuel economy. With 240 hp and a whopping 455 lb-ft. of torque, the GL350 BlueTEC features an innovative 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine with the torque of a V8 and the fuel economy to rival some four-cylinders. Equipped with the latest CDI (Common Rail Direct Injection) technology, this electronically injected and turbocharged diesel engine is changing consumers’ dated perceptions about diesels.

BlueTEC — A Modular Technology

BlueTEC diesel technology is helping to expand the company’s already broad product portfolio in the U.S. market. In addition, the pioneering role of Mercedes-Benz in modern diesel engines is playing a key role in the company’s future products that could also include hybrids, advanced piston engines and fuel cells.

The seven-seat SUV also boasts impressive cruising range – more than 600 miles at highway speeds. For greater utility, V8-like pulling power makes the GL350 BlueTEC ideal for towing when it’s equipped with an optional 7,500-lb. Class IV trailer hitch.

BlueTEC incorporates an oxidation catalyst and a maintenance-free particulate filter as well as new techniques for reducing nitrogen oxide emissions – the last type of exhaust gas that’s higher in diesel vehicles than gasoline engines. The BlueTEC diesels feature a NOx storage converter in combination with an SCR catalytic converter and AdBlue injection to lower NOx emissions. The AdBlue system injects just the right amount of an aqueous carbamide solution into the exhaust flow, which releases ammonia (NH3), reducing nitrogen oxides to harmless nitrogen and water in the downstream SCR converter.

Biturbo V8 Engines

With a choice of three direct-injection, biturbo V8 engines, the new GL attains better gas mileage while producing more power -- an astounding feat, considering that increasing either power or fuel economy usually decreases the other. The biturbo V8 engines feature direct fuel injection, twin turbochargers and multi-spark ignition.

Piston crowns are four millimeters thicker to handle the high combustion pressures of a turbocharged engine, while shorter connecting rods allow existing block dimensions to be retained. Like its predecessor, the new engines have aluminum cylinder heads, pistons and cylinder block (with cast-in Silitec cylinders), as well as a crankshaft, connecting roads and valves made of special forged steel.

Direct Fuel Injection

While most gasoline engines have used indirect port fuel injection in the past, the GL engines make use of industry-leading electronics technology first used on Mercedes-Benz diesels – electronic fuel injectors that spray gasoline directly into the combustion chambers. Featuring a piezo-ceramic crystalline element that changes shape when electrical current is applied, blazingly fast piezo injectors make it possible to design very sensitive and precise injection systems, including the ability to program several small injections with each piston stroke.

The first injection is sprayed into the combustion chamber as the piston is descending on the intake stroke. Depending on speed, load and temperature conditions, another injection or two takes place during the compression up-stroke before ignition, forming a stratified mixture. A fourth injection can stabilize combustion if it’s needed.

Multi-Spark Works with Multi-Squirt

Working together with the spray-guided direct injection, a rapid multi-spark ignition system begins combustion with the first spark, but has the capability to recharge and deliver up to three more sparks within a single millisecond, creating a gas plasma with more expansion than conventional ignition.
The time lapse between sparks is adjustable, so combustion duration can actually be controlled, resulting in two percent better fuel economy, and a total of four percent improvement in combination with its companion direct fuel injection system.

Refined Variable Valve Timing

Mounted on the ends of the intake and exhaust camshafts, the hydraulic camshaft adjusters that vary valve timing are 35 percent faster than in the past, and with a wider range of 40 crankshaft degrees. Despite their improved performance, they’re also more than a half inch smaller in height and width.

More Efficient Cam Chain Drive

Smaller valve timing adjusters are made possible by a revised cam chain drive, in which the crankshaft drives an intermediate shaft above the crank. In turn, the intermediate shaft drives two short chains – one for each cylinder bank – that loop around the intake and exhaust camshaft drive sprockets. The latest chain drive results in less tension and lower chain dynamics, for even lower friction and less noise.

A fourth chain drives a variable vane-type oil pump in the bottom of the engine. At low engine speed and load, the oil pump only generates about 28 psi (or two bar) of oil pressure, and nozzles that spray cooling oil on the pistons are inactive. As engine speed and load increases, oil pressure rises, and the oil spray nozzles are turned on. In this way, less energy is used when less cooling and lubrication is needed.

Three-Phase, Low-Load Cooling System

Even the cooling system is significantly refined, beginning with a two-stage flow circuit through the cylinder head. This coolant flow results in better heat dissipation, despite lower coolant pressure, so that the water pump uses less engine power.

A three-phase cooling system helps the engine warm up very quickly. When the engine is first started, no coolant circulates. Then, as the engine warms up, coolant begins to circulate within the engine, but not through the radiator. Only when the coolant temperature reaches 221 degrees Farenheit (or 189 degrees F. under high load), coolant also circulates through the radiator. Coolant circulation through the heating system for the car’s interior is controlled separately.

The Building Blocks

Assembling the biturbo V8 engine underscores its efficient design. An exceptionally stiff forged-steel crankshaft is bolted into a pressure-cast aluminum block, and an aluminum oil pan also contributes to block rigidity.

Aluminum pistons are mounted on the connecting rods, then slid into the silicon-aluminum sleeves, which are an integral cast-in part of the block. Connecting rods must be made in two pieces for assembly on the crankshaft, and Mercedes engines use hollow, forged steel rods that initially are made in one piece, then hydraulically “cracked,” instead of being machine-cut and reground. The irregular fracture provides a very strong, durable fit, even at high engine speeds, and shortens the production process since re-grinding isn’t necessary.

The two cylinder heads are bolted onto the block, and twin camshafts are installed in each head, with cam drive chains looping around the intake and exhaust cam sprockets. Double-wall piping keeps the exhaust air as hot as possible leading to a catalytic converter below each cylinder bank.

Fuel-Efficient Transmission

The 2013 GL-Class line is equipped with an enhanced seven-speed automatic transmission that provides even better fuel mileage, more responsive driving, quieter operation and increased durability. The new transmission features a more advanced torque converter lockup clutch and is designed to work best with a new type of low-viscosity ATF transmission fluid, colored blue instead of the usual red.

Together with low-drag planetary gears, bearings and internal seals, the “FE-ATF” fluid provides less friction and improved fuel mileage. Lower hydraulic pressure and enhanced electronic software helps provide even smoother shifting.

The Mercedes-Benz Alabama Plant

Along with the M-Class, the GL-Class sport utility vehicle is produced at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, which began production in 1997 with the first-generation M-Class. Since 2001, more than $600 million has been invested to expand the facility.

Quick Reference:

Availability: September 2012 (GL350 BlueTEC: October 2012)

Performance:

- GL350 BlueTEC: 50-state 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6: 240 hp, 455 lb.-ft.
- GL450: direction-injection, 4.6-liter biturbo gasoline V8: 362 hp, 406 lb.-ft.
- GL550: direct-injection 4.6-liter biturbo V8: 429 hp, 516 lb.-ft.
- GL63 AMG: direct-injection 5.5-liter biturbo V8: 550 hp, 560 lb.-ft.

New Standard Feature Highlights:

- New-generation full-size sport utility vehicle
- Slightly longer, wider and taller
- COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST
- ATTENTION ASSIST
- Electromechanical power steering
- mbrace2
- Color instrument display
- Power liftgate
- COMAND control knob
- Rear-view camera
- 115-volt outlet

New Optional Feature Highlights:

- On- and Off-Road Package
- ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM
- Active Lane Keeping Assist
- Active Parking Assist
- Panorama Roof
- Power EASY-ENTRY for 2nd row
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist
- Surround View system

Credits: Mercedes-Benz USA

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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