Exterior & Styling

Particularly from the rear, the GL's appearance looks a bit like Mercedes' original M-Class — so much so that a passenger walked up to an older M thinking it was the GL. The GL550's 21-inch wheels, oversized grille and rubber-studded running boards give it a look similar to that of Mercedes' AMG performance cars — perhaps that was the intention, given there is no AMG GL-Class — and should secure the car a front-row spot at most valet stands. Lesser models can be dressed to match, albeit with a smaller grille.

Less-expensive GLs have 18- or 19-inch wheels. An optional offroad package raises the air suspension to yield 12 inches of ground clearance, 2 inches higher than a Hummer H2's. The package also includes a two-speed transfer case and locking center and rear differentials.

    See also:

    Override feature for the rear side windows
    WARNING When children ride on the vehicle's rear seats, activate the override switch. Otherwise, the children could be injured, e.g. by trapping themselves in the rear side window. To act ...

    GTW (Gross Trailer Weight)
    The GTW is the weight of a trailer including the weight of the load, luggage, accessories etc. on the trailer. ...

    Off-road ABS
    An ABS mode specifically suited to off-road terrain is activated automatically if the offroad drive program is activated or the LOW RANGE off-road gear is selected. At speeds below 18 mph(30 km ...