Automotive
Mercedes-Benz unveiled the luxurious seven-seater GL at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, immediately establishing it as the brand’s flagship SUV. For years, the German automaker had eyed the American market’s large, off-road-capable seven-seat SUVs and finally decided to compete directly on their home turf. To meet demand efficiently and avoid hefty import tariffs, Mercedes built the GL in Alabama. Though pricey, the GL was widely regarded as the SUV counterpart to the prestigious S-Class sedan, embodying the brand’s top-tier luxury and technology.
Unlike the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator, which used traditional body-on-frame construction, the GL featured a lighter unibody design. Its front end shared styling cues with its smaller sibling, the ML-Class - also built in Tuscaloosa - showcasing a two-slat grille and a tall lower bumper that cleverly masked the SUV’s imposing height. Along the sides, the GL boasted extended window panels, including a distinctive third glass section between the rear doors and the D-pillars, emphasizing its spacious cabin.
In late 2009, Mercedes-Benz refreshed the GL lineup, enhancing ride comfort and introducing an upgraded turbo-diesel engine. This diesel powertrain delivered an impressive range of approximately 600 miles (965 kilometers) per tank, underscoring the SUV’s capability for long-distance travel.
Despite the lingering effects of the global financial crisis, the refreshed GL set itself apart from U.S. rivals by maintaining its unibody construction, which improved handling and reduced weight. The redesigned front fascia featured striking triangular headlights, while the sculpted front fenders and flared wheel arches conveyed a rugged yet refined go-anywhere attitude. Its short front overhang and elevated rear overhang were engineered to better tackle off-road trails without damaging the bodywork. For customers seeking extra protection, an available off-road package added metallic underbody shields, while the standard model came with durable plastic panels under the chassis.
As Mercedes-Benz’s largest SUV, the GL was considered the S-Class equivalent for the SUV segment. Its ability to seat up to seven passengers comfortably, combined with a wealth of luxury features, made it a compelling choice for buyers seeking flagship-level refinement in an SUV.
The first-generation GL, launched in 2006 and based on the ML-Class platform, was primarily targeted at the North American market. European sales were modest, especially after the 2008 economic downturn. In its final full production year, the GL sold only 2,508 units in Europe, while U.S. sales dipped to a low of 15,012 units in 2009.
The second generation arrived in 2012 with a comprehensive exterior redesign. It featured a new front fascia, sculpted door panels, and distinctive V-shaped turn signals integrated into the side mirrors. Despite these updates, sales in Europe remained limited, as the GL’s large dimensions made it less practical for navigating tight city streets.
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