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2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Preview

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Miranda Lightstone
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Pros: German engineering coupled with a diverse range of models and engines -- including an AMG version -- mean there’s a GL for everyone and most budgets. 

Cons: Mercedes-Benz has its own way of doing things that is often not the same as most other manufacturers, and getting used to these systems prejudices potential buyers against the GL-Class.

2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Prices and Fuel economy: Base MSRPs (not including taxes and other additional charges) are as follows:
 
•    GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC at $78,500
•    GL 450 4MATIC at $79,600
•    GL 550 4MATIC at $100,900
•    GL 63 AMG at $128,400

Fuel Economy (combined L/100 km): 

•    GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC: 12.0L/100km
•    GL 450 4MATIC: 14.0L/100km
•    GL 550 4MATIC: 15.6L/100km
•    GL 63 AMG: 16.3L/100km

Improvements and Changes: No major changes or improvements have been made to the GL-Class since its facelift and upgrade in 2013. 

2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Powertrain: The GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC utilizes a 3.0L turbodiesel V6 that produces 240 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. The GL 450 4MATIC employs a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 that produces 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, while the 4.6L twin-turbo V8 in the GL 550 4MATIC bumps output up to 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Finally, the GL 63 AMG uses a 5.5L twin-turbo V8 generating 550 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque.

All GL-Class models use a 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic with permanent AWD and a manual mode for shifting. 

Cargo/towing/payload capacity: All GLs are rated with a towing capacity of 3,402 kg (7,500 lb), except the 63 AMG which is rated at 3,175 kg (7,000 lb). Storage volume behind the 3rd row seats is 295L, and with all seats folded down it is 2,300L.

Safety: Dual front, front side impact, full-length side curtain, and a driver’s side knee airbag are all standard. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, traction control, stability control, roll over mitigation, and brake force distribution are standard. Three-point lap belts, child-proof rear door locks, pinch protection on power windows, and the LATCH system to anchor child seats are standard. Blind spot and lane departure assists are standard. Night view assist is optional.

Comparing the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: Infiniti QX 80, Cadillac Escalade, Land Rover Range Rover, BMW X5, Lexus LX, Lincoln Navigator.

Miranda Lightstone
Miranda Lightstone
Automotive expert
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