Best Car Models & All About Cars: 2013 Mercedes Benz GL Class

2013 Mercedes Benz GL Class

What's New for 2013

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class receives minor exterior enhancements, but gets thorough engine and interior upgrades. The GL63 may be a new addition to the AMG lineup.

Introduction

It still appearance regarding the same and shares the same basic dimensions as its predecessor, but the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class gets a thorough update underneath the hood and within the cabin. Offered in four variants -- the base GL350 Bluetec, the midrange GL450, the top-shelf GL550 and sublimely excessive GL63 AMG -- the seven-passenger luxury SUV gets additional powerful engines together with a seven-speed automatic transmission and customary all-wheel drive.

The G350 Bluetec gets a revised 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 engine that now makes 240 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque, enough to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds. The GL450 uses a twin-turbocharged, direct-injection 4.7-liter V8 producing 362 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, sensible for 0 to 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds.

The GL550 uses the same 4.7-liter V8, however massaged for additional power: 429 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. That's power enough to achieve 60 mph in 5.5 seconds -- an spectacular result for a hefty luxury SUV. At the top of the lineup, the new GL63 AMG cranks out 550 hp and 560 lb-ft from its twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V8. Mercedes says it will hit 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds.

Mercedes-Benz hasn't released fuel economy estimates for the GL's new engines, however says it expects a substantial improvement compared to the present model.

All GL-Class models come customary with a self-leveling air suspension. To that you'll add the Active Curve System with active stabilizer bars to help suppress body roll throughout more spirited romps. An accessible active parking assist system helps you slot into tight spaces, while active lane-keeping assist, active blind-spot detection and adaptive headlamps facilitate the driving force avoid side collisions or potential hassle around dark bends in the road.

Different available safety options include the radar-primarily based collision-prevention system, drowsy driver alert, crosswind stabilization and a 360-degree rearview camera.

Inside, the GL-Class offers a lot of head-, shoulder and elbow area all around, and an influence-folding third row eases the transition from cargo to passenger-hauling duties. Total cargo capacity also will increase to ninety four cubic feet. As you'd expect, the GL offers masses of standard niceties like a power liftgate and a sunroof, in addition to optional luxuries. The GL550, as an example, comes absolutely loaded with twenty one-inch AMG alloy wheels, ventilated and massaging seats, three-zone automatic climate management, a navigation system with voice management, and a surround-sound audio system.

Those looking to induce off the beaten path can add an Off-Road package for the GL450 and GL550 that bundles a skid plate, a two-speed transfer case, locking differential and enhanced air suspension that adds up to 1 foot of ground clearance and permits the GL to struggle through water nearly 2 feet deep.

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class goes on sale in September. The GL63 AMG follows regarding six months later. Pricing has not been announced, but we tend to expect the new GL550 to brush $90,000 considering that the present model starts at $86,175. Check back for a full review of the new GL-Class, together with specs, driving impressions and buying recommendation as it becomes offered.

2013 Mercedes Benz GL Class