The All-New 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

Comfort, safety, elegance, efficiency - the all-new 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is the leading luxury full-size SUV. New innovations like standard COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA), Crosswind Stabilization, self-leveling air suspension and electromechanical steering all increase active safety. Also new are assistance systems like Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist, as well as PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist and the Surround View camera. With benchmark performance and ride characteristics both on-road and in rugged terrain, the GL-Class cradles its occupants with the first-class comfort of a luxurious sedan. The all-new GL-Class is perfect for large families with ample space for up to seven passengers, while a host of efficiency measures deliver a substantial improvement in fuel economy.

Its balanced proportions (length 5121 mm, width 2142 mm, height 1849 mm) and generous wheelbase (3073 mm) reaffirm the on-road comfort of this vehicle. At the same time, the short overhangs front and rear, as well as substantial ground clearance are clear indications of its off-road capabilities.

The typically high SUV waistline with a distinctive chrome strip, the dynamic sweep of the character line and the chrome edging around the windows add to the refined look of the all-new GL-Class. The standard wheels on the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC™ and GL 450 4MATIC™ are 20-inch split five-spoke alloys, while the GL 550 4MATIC™ comes with 21-inch AMG twin 5-spoke wheels.
Split LED taillight clusters feature light guide technology, and a large roof spoiler and bumper in the modern "wing" design with a large chrome skidplate complete the impressive exterior.

For a sporty and dynamic look, illuminated brushed aluminium running boards are standard on the GL 550 4MATIC™ and optional on the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC™ and GL 450 4MATIC™. Available as an option for the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC™ and GL 450 4MATIC™, and standard on the GL 550 4MATIC™ is the Sport Package, which includes 21" AMG wheels, exterior AMG styling and unique LED daytime running light positioning.

Inner values - the GL-Class delivers first-class travel

With its powerfully dynamic and elegant interior architecture, fine materials, perfect ergonomics, generous amounts of space and attention to detail, the interior of the GL-Class conveys Mercedes-Benz's characteristic first-class ambience. Large trim pieces in fine wood finish, operating controls in silver chrome and ARTICO upholstery with contrasting stitching reaffirm the overall premium feel of the GL-Class. The seating offers plenty of space for seven in a 2-3-2 layout, and compared with the previous model, occupants now have more shoulder, elbow and headroom in all three seating rows. The second-row bench offers a wide range of positioning options for even more interior versatility, including rear-seat recline and a 60/40 split for optimizing the luggage area, which has a load volume ranging from 453 to 2661 litres. Electric operation of the third row is a standard feature.

The dashboard design emphasizes the width of the interior. The modern instrument cluster boasts a premium look-and-feel with two clearly designed and easy-to-read dials and a large 4.5-inch photo-quality colour display between them. The top of the dashboard is dominated by a large central colour screen for the infotainment system. The user-friendly operating and display concept now places the controller on the centre console. It has a fine metal finish and offers intuitive and simple operation of infotainment, navigation and communication systems. Standard equipment includes a multifunction steering wheel in premium leather with shift paddles and 12 multi-function buttons.

The centre console houses a large storage bin, two cup holders with a retractable premium wood cover, and vehicle controls for the AIRMATIC air suspension and COMAND systems. The dashboard trim elements carry into the door trim panels, which feature distinctive stitching.

Superlative Assistance systems in the GL-Class

For further improved safety and driver alertness in the new GL-Class there are a wide range of assistance systems. Standard equipment includes the usual array of stability control features ESP®, ASR, ABS and the PRE-SAFE® predictive occupant safety system, and also introduces for the first time as standard COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (CPA) and ATTENTION ASSIST driver drowsiness detection. The radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST operates at speeds between 30 and 250 km/h and recognizes when the distance to the vehicle in front is decreasing. It can also recognize stationary objects. If there is an imminent risk of a collision, the system emits a visual and acoustic warning to alert the driver and prepares Brake Assist for the most immediate possible braking response, which is initiated as soon as the driver applies the brakes.

The system takes into account specific driving conditions such as bumper-to-bumper traffic and adapts accordingly, calculating optimum brake pressure and adjusting it up or down as the situation changes - i.e. if the vehicle ahead accelerates, or if the distance to moving and decelerating vehicles decreases. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST calculates the precise braking force required to avoid an accident and makes best possible use of any distance remaining to minimize the risk of impact from the vehicle behind.

Another innovation and highlight in the new GL-Class is the standard Crosswind Stabilization system, which assists the driver with targeted brake impulses in the event of strong crosswinds to deliver enhanced safety and vehicle control.

The optional Advanced Driving Assistance Package includes DISTRONIC PLUS and PRESAFE® brake with autonomous braking function to optimize safety in certain dangerous situations. The package also comes with Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist. PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist comes as standard equipment for the GL-Class. The system allows for automatic maneuvering in and out of parallel parking spots by utilizing the new surround view camera, which uses image data from four cameras at the front and rear of the vehicle and in the exterior mirror casings to calculate a bird's eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings, and displays this information on the COMAND display. The GL-Class offers the Lighting package as standard equipment, which includes Bi-xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination and Corner Illuminating Lamps, a headlamp cleaning system and Adaptive Highbeam Assist.

Passive safety - comprehensive safety for seven passengers

Together with the "electronic crumple zones" provided by the assistance systems and the intelligent bodyshell design, the passive occupant protection systems provide the highest possible level of protection. Adaptive, two-stage airbags for driver and front seat passenger, driver side knee airbag, front & rear side airbags and window curtain airbags across all three seating rows are all standard equipment, while all seven seats are fitted with three-point safety belts. Pyrotechnic pre-tensioners, constant belt force limiters and electrically reversible pre-tensioners are all standard on the front seats, while the outboard seats on the middle row and the individual third-row seats are fitted with pre-tensioners and single-stage belt force limiters.

Clean power - the GL-Class engines

All three of the engines in the new GL-Class lineup deliver outstanding performance paired with excellent efficiency.

The extensively re-engineered V6 engine under the hood of the new GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC™ generates 240 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque, marking an increase of 30 hp and 55 lb-ft over the outgoing model. Supremely efficient, the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC™ offers exceptional fuel consumption, paired with outstanding power and performance.

The twin-turbo direct-injection V8 motor in the GL 450 4MATIC™ is an outstanding combination of performance and efficiency. With 362 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, it offers 27 hp and 67 lb-ft more than its predecessor. This added power and higher peak torque delivered over a wider rev range deliver all the prerequisites for relaxed long-distance cruising, as well as the versatility and responsiveness to deal with a wide variety of day-to-day activities.

At the top of the list, the GL 550 4MATIC™ now comes with a direct-injection twin-turbo 429 hp engine with a mighty 516 lb-ft of peak torque. While the extra 47 hp brings even more performance to this supremely refined full-size SUV, it is the added 125 lb-ft of peak torque that truly makes itself felt, in terms of off the line performance and the ability of the GL 550 4MATIC™ to handle heavy loads with ease. Alongside state-of-the-art engine technology, all three engines are equipped with extensive efficiency measures like direct-injection and paired with the new seven-speed automatic transmission. Intelligent alternator management keeps fuel consumption down, as does the electromechanical steering, optimized belt drive with decoupler, and intelligent demand-based control of all auxiliary equipment and pumps. A key feature of the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC™ is also the SCR exhaust system optimized for airflow and back pressure.

The front and rear suspension links as well as the hood and fenders are made from lightweight and tough aluminium alloy. Further weight reduction is achieved with the new acoustic front windshield, the magnesium transverse mount supporting the dashboard, the BlueTEC system with SCR technology and components such as the new electromechanical steering, electric parking brake, polymer engine mounts and the aluminium brake servo unit. These weight reduction measures increase the agility of the full-size SUV while at the same time reducing fuel consumption.

S-Class comfort with ground-breaking handling both on and off-road

Relaxed and safe driving under all possible conditions, both on-road and off-road, is one of the strengths of the new GL-Class. NVH characteristics (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) are particularly impressive and on par with the S-Class. The foundation for the high comfort level is the extremely stiff bodyshell, an optimized driveline, improved chassis, aeroacoustic refinement and the intelligent application of new kinds of insulation. Excellent agility, dynamic on-road handling and outstanding off-road capabilities have long been among the benefits of the GL-Class. Standard equipment includes the AIRMATIC full air suspension system with self-leveling function. AIRMATIC delivers outstanding comfort paired with considerably improved stability. It compensates for all manner of driving conditions with features such as crosswind stabilization and the self-leveling function.

The GL is also equipped for trips on challenging terrain. In addition to 4MATIC™ permanent all-wheel drive, standard equipment includes Hill Start Assist and Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR).

Complete model lineup, compelling equipment packages

Extensive standard equipment, individual equipment packages and an attractive range of paint finishes and premium interior appointments define the look of the new GL-Class. It comes to the Canadian market in three model variants, the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC™ with a V6 diesel, the GL 450 4MATIC™ and GL 550 4MATIC™ V8 biturbo gasoline versions.
The comprehensive list of standard equipment has been significantly expanded in comparison with the outgoing model. It incorporates safety features such as ATTENTION ASSIST, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST and Crosswind Stabilization. Comfort details like the power liftgate, an electric power/tilt sliding glass sunroof, ARTICO upholstery with perforated surface finish and heated 8-way power front seats with driver 4-way lumbar support are also standard, as is the COMAND system with central controller.
A wide range of optional packages provide customers with extensive choice and added refinement.

The Premium package for the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC™ and GL 450 4MATIC™ includes:

• Panoramic sunroof
• COMAND APS with hard-drive navigation and LINGUATRONIC voice control
• Media Interface
• harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround-sound system
• KEYLESS-GO
• Heated rear seats
• Power assisted trunk and door closure

Further packages available for the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC™ and GL 450 4MATIC™ are the Advanced Driving Assistance Package, Driving Assistance Package, Sport Package and Premium Rear Seating Package.
The GL 550 4MATIC™ boasts an unparalleled array of standard equipment that also includes:

• Driver and passenger multi-contour seats with massage function and active ventilation
• 3-zone automatic climate control and rear air conditioning
• Media interface
• Hard-drive navigation and LINGUATRONIC voice control
• harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround-sound system
• SIRIUS satellite radio
• multi-colour ambient lighting
• KEYLESS-GO
• PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
• Bi-xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination and Corner
  Illuminating Lamps
• Illuminated brushed aluminium running boards

Safety equipment for the GL 550 4MATIC™ is further enhanced by Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Surround View.
Quick Reference:
Performance/Availability:
On-Sale: September 2012

• 2013 GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC™: 240hp, 455 lb-ft (Previously 210 hp, 400 lb-ft)
• 2013 GL 450 4MATIC™: 362 hp, 406 lb-ft (Previously 335 hp, 339 lb-ft)
• 2013 GL 550 4MATIC™: 429 hp, 516 lb-ft (Previously 382 hp, 391 lb-ft)

New Standard Feature Highlights:

• COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST
• ATTENTION ASSIST
• Crosswind Assist
• Direct-injection twin-turbo gasoline V8 engines
• Electric Power Steering (EPS)
• Color instrument cluster display
• Adaptive Highbeam Assist

New Optional Feature Highlights:

• Multi-colour Ambient Lighting
• PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
• Surround View Camera
• Driving Assistance Package
• Panoramic Sunroof

About Mercedes-Benz Canada
Mercedes-Benz Canada is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of the four brands within the Mercedes-Benz Group in Canada: Mercedes-Benz, smart, AMG, and Maybach.  Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. employs approximately 1,300 people in 19 locations across Canada.  Through a nationwide network of 13 Mercedes-Benz owned retail operations and 40 authorized dealerships, Mercedes-Benz Canada sold 32,914 vehicles in 2011, the best year ever reported for Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc.

For more information, please contact:  

JoAnne Caza                       416-847-7550            joanne.caza@mercedes-benz.ca
Michael Minielly                416-847-7509            michael.minielly@mercedes-benz.ca

Further information from Mercedes-Benz is available on the internet at: www.media.mercedes-benz.ca