Mercedes like to think that their new GL-Class is the S-Class of the 4×4 world.
Mercedes GL-Class
But the new GL-Class is probably more than that and is said to be on a par with the limo because of its noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) measurements – meaning a smooth, quiet ride with improved comfort over existing SUV models.
However, I’m betting the lads at Range Rover aren’t losing any sleep over the GL’s redesign but it does have an amazing array of hi tech features (most of which will probably go unused as the car won’t be going off-road).
It even has a ‘Crosswind Assist’ which ‘supports the driver with deliberate braking when there are strong crosswinds, increasing the feeling of safety.’ Hello? Have you seen the size of the vehicle? Plus the chassis alone should be able to cope without a special electronic program kicking in.
There’s also optional extra called Active Curve System which uses active lateral stabilisers on the front and rear axles to reduce the roll angle on bends. This is for a car that’s spending more time in the Waitrose car park than it will tearing up the Yorkshire Dales.
The engines have also improved the GL’s fuel consumption by around 20 per cent – it’s about 38mpg.
UK pricing has yet to be confirmed but if you’re interested they will probably start at around the current GL 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY’s £58,935 on the road price.