The 2016 Mercedes-benz Gl-class stood as a paragon of luxury SUVs, offering a blend of opulent comfort, robust performance, and versatile functionality. This model year presented a range of options catering to diverse needs and preferences, from fuel-efficient diesel variants to high-performance AMG models. Let’s delve into the specifics of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, exploring its models, standard features, and available packages that made it a standout in its class.
Model Overview: GL350 Bluetec & GL450
The 2016 GL-Class lineup started with the GL350 Bluetec and GL450 models, sharing a common foundation of luxury and equipment, while differing primarily in their powertrains. The GL350 Bluetec was powered by a turbocharged diesel V6 engine, emphasizing fuel efficiency and torque, while the GL450 utilized a turbocharged gasoline V6 for a balance of performance and refinement.
Both the GL350 Bluetec and GL450 were generously equipped right from the base level. They rolled on 19-inch alloy wheels and featured a self-leveling air suspension for a smooth and composed ride. Automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights and taillights, a sunroof, automatic wipers, roof rails, rear privacy glass, power rear quarter-windows, and a power liftgate added to their exterior convenience and appeal.
Inside, the cabin of these 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class models exuded luxury. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensured personalized comfort, while “MB-Tex” premium vinyl upholstery provided a durable and elegant seating surface. Heated eight-way power front seats with four-way lumbar adjustment, a power-folding third-row seat, a rear cargo area cover, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and genuine wood trim elevated the interior ambiance. Technology was also at the forefront, with the knob-based COMAND interface controlling a 7-inch central display, a rearview camera for enhanced visibility, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, Mercedes mbrace2 emergency communications with smartphone app integration, a 115-volt household-style power outlet, and a sound system featuring a CD/DVD player, HD radio, an auxiliary audio jack, an SD card reader, and a USB port.
For those seeking even more features, the Premium package enhanced the GL350 and GL450 with power-folding exterior mirrors including driver-side auto-dimming, keyless entry and ignition, power front head restraints, memory settings for the driver and front passenger seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel, heated and cooled cupholders, illuminated door sills, multicolor ambient lighting, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a navigation system with real-time traffic, voice controls, 10GB of digital music storage, an iPod/media player interface, and satellite radio.
Visibility and safety were further improved with the Lighting package, which included adaptive bi-xenon headlights and automatic high beams. The Appearance package added a touch of distinction with 20-inch alloy wheels, lighted running boards, and chrome exhaust tips (GL450 only). Drivers prioritizing safety could opt for the Lane Tracking package, incorporating a blind-spot monitor and lane-keeping assist. Maneuvering in tight spaces became easier with the Parking Assist package, featuring front and rear parking sensors, an automated parallel-parking system, and a surround-view camera system.
Individual options for the GL350 and GL450 included three-zone automatic climate control for enhanced rear passenger comfort, ventilated front seats, luxurious leather upholstery, a premium 13-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and multicontour front seats with massaging functionality and adjustable side bolsters and shoulder supports.
Stepping Up to Luxury: The GL550
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL550 represented a significant step up in performance and luxury. Building upon the features of the GL350 and GL450, the GL550 boasted a powerful V8 engine, delivering more robust acceleration and towing capability. Visually, it distinguished itself with 21-inch alloy wheels, adaptive suspension dampers for enhanced handling, sporty exterior styling cues, soft-close doors, unique wood trim, and distinctive dashboard stitching, further elevating its premium status within the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class range.
The Pinnacle of Performance: GL 63 AMG
At the top of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class hierarchy resided the GL 63 AMG. This high-performance variant combined the spaciousness and luxury of the GL-Class with the exhilarating power and dynamics synonymous with the AMG name. It featured an even more potent V8 engine, a sport exhaust system for an aggressive soundtrack, exclusive 21-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes for enhanced stopping power, adaptive stabilizer bars (Mercedes-Benz’s “Active Curve System”) to minimize body roll, AMG-specific styling elements both inside and out, enhanced bolstering for the front seats to provide superior support during spirited driving, upgraded “designo” leather upholstery, and a flat-bottomed sport steering wheel, solidifying its position as the performance flagship of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class.
Common Options Across the Range
Across the entire 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class model range (GL350, GL450, GL550, and GL 63 AMG), several optional features were available to further personalize and enhance the vehicles. These included a panoramic sunroof, heated second-row seats for added passenger comfort, and the Driver Assistance package, encompassing adaptive cruise control and advanced safety technologies. The GL450 and GL550 could also be equipped with an On-/Off-Road package, featuring a six-mode terrain selector, a two-speed transfer case, and front underbody protection; on the GL450, this package also added the GL550’s standard adaptive dampers.
Further individualization was possible with options like a trailer hitch, an illuminated grille badge, a heated steering wheel, power-sliding second-row seats for easier third-row access, rear side window sunshades, a rear entertainment system, and a top-of-the-line 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen BeoSound audio system.
In conclusion, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class offered a comprehensive range of models, from the efficient and luxurious GL350 Bluetec and GL450 to the high-performance GL550 and GL 63 AMG. With a plethora of standard features and customizable options, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class catered to discerning buyers seeking a premium SUV experience.
