Mercedes-Benz has released a special edition of its GL-Class off-roader that is even more luxurious and distinctive than ever before.
The "Grand Edition" has unique alloy wheels, wider tyres, dark-tinted headlamps, black, high-gloss louvres on the radiator grille and a redesigned front bumper with integrated LED daytime running lamps, ensuring that its exterior is as distinctive as the interior.
Mercedes claims that the Grand Edition, which can seat up to seven people, is as luxurious as the S-Class thanks to two-tone leather seats, a new headlining, black ash steering wheel and black wood trim.
All models are available with a choice of engines including a V6 diesel and two petrol V8 models. The fastest petrol version can hit 62mph in 6.5 seconds while the diesel can return up to 31mpg.
With 4MATIC all-wheel drive, AIRMATIC air suspension, and the Adaptive Damping System (ADS), the GL-Class is claimed to offer a good blend of comfort and body control, while Mercedes reckons it still has good off-road performance thanks to modified AIRMATIC air suspension - enabling ground clearance of over 12 inches - and the combination of a low-range gearbox and limited-slip rear-axle and centre differentials mean that it can crawl away even if just one wheel has traction.
Other electronic dynamic handling control systems such as Off-Road ABS, Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) and Hill-Start Assist mean that the driver can rely on the GL-class to help when the going gets sticky.
It has not yet been confirmed if the GL Grand Edition will be sold in the UK. Prices start at €80,206 in Germany.
Carlton Boyce - 23 May 2011