Mercedes-Benz turns to Web to launch GL-Class

By logging on to www.mb-me.com/gl prospective customers can learn about the vehicle's powerful new engines, the light and airy seven-seater interior, excellent handling both on and off-road and the comprehensive list of active and passive safety systems. They can also book a test drive with their local Mercedes-Benz distributor.

The GL-Class meets all the requirements of a state-of-the-art, luxury SUV and even redefines them on a higher level particularly in terms of safety with the PRE-SAFE accident prevention system fitted as standard, the first time a system of this kind has been offered in a vehicle in this segment.

Special off-road features such as Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR), hill-start assist and off-road ABS assist the GL-Class driver off road. The standard Off-Road Pro engineering package means the GL-Class can also handle the most extreme off-road terrain. This includes a two-speed transfer case with a low range ratio and 100 percent differential locks for the transfer case and the rear axle. The modified air suspension increases ground clearance to a maximum of 307 millimetres where required.

The ultra-modern engine line-up in GL-Class models provides superlative drive comfort and compelling performance coupled with superior fuel consumption figures compared with other vehicles in the class. The newly developed 5.5-litre, 388-hp engine, launched earlier in the new S-Class, is now available in the GL 500. In the GL 450 the 4.7-litre engine develops an impressive 340 hp.

"With a poised presence on and off-road, the new GL-Class leaves no one in any doubt about our aspirations to conquor this market segment," said Johannes Fritz, Director, Sales and Marketing, Mercedes Car Group, Middle East. "The GL-Class offers superb comfort either driving to the nearest shopping mall with the family, cruising thousands of kilometres to a holiday destination or negotiating rough terrain."