The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class stands as a testament to luxury and versatility in the full-size SUV segment. Offering a range of models from the efficient diesel GL350 Bluetec to the high-performance AMG GL 63, the 2016 GL caters to a diverse clientele seeking premium features and robust capabilities. This article delves into the specifics of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL, exploring its various models, standard equipment, optional packages, and standout features that made it a compelling choice in its class.
Exploring the Foundation: GL350 Bluetec and GL450
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL lineup begins with the GL350 Bluetec and GL450, both sharing a comprehensive list of standard features while differing primarily in their powertrains. The GL350 Bluetec is powered by a diesel turbocharged V6 engine, emphasizing fuel efficiency and torque, while the GL450 utilizes a gasoline turbocharged V6 for a more traditional driving experience.
Externally, both models are equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, ensuring a commanding stance and refined ride quality. The self-leveling air suspension is a standard highlight, automatically adjusting to maintain optimal ride height and comfort regardless of load or terrain. Automatic headlights and LED running lights and taillights provide enhanced visibility and a modern aesthetic. Practicality is further enhanced by a standard sunroof, automatic wipers, roof rails for additional cargo carrying capacity, rear privacy glass, power rear quarter-windows, and a power liftgate for effortless access to the cargo area.
Stepping inside the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL350 and GL450 reveals a cabin meticulously crafted for comfort and convenience. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized temperature settings for front occupants. “MB-Tex” premium vinyl upholstery provides a durable and luxurious feel, while heated eight-way power front seats with four-way lumbar adjustment offer exceptional comfort for long journeys. The power-folding third-row seat adds versatility to passenger and cargo configurations, and a rear cargo area cover helps maintain a clean and organized space. The leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and genuine wood trim elevate the interior ambiance, creating a sophisticated environment.
Technologically, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL models are well-equipped. The knob-based COMAND interface provides intuitive control over various vehicle functions, displayed on a 7-inch central screen. A rearview camera enhances safety and ease of parking. Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity enables seamless smartphone integration, and Mercedes mbrace2 emergency communications (including smartphone app integration) provides added security and convenience. A 115-volt household-style power outlet caters to charging needs on the go, and the sound system, featuring a CD/DVD player, HD radio, auxiliary audio jack, SD card reader, and a USB port, offers a range of entertainment options.
Elevating Comfort and Convenience: Optional Packages
To further personalize the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL350 and GL450, Mercedes-Benz offered a range of optional packages designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and style.
The Premium package is a popular choice, adding power-folding exterior mirrors with driver-side auto-dimming, keyless entry and ignition for effortless access and start-up. Power front head restraints, memory settings for the driver and front passenger seats, and a power-adjustable steering wheel personalize the driving position for multiple users. Heated and cooled cupholders maintain beverage temperature, while lighted door sills and multicolor ambient lighting enhance the interior atmosphere. An auto-dimming rearview mirror, a navigation system with real-time traffic updates, voice controls for various functions, 10GB of digital music storage, an iPod/media player interface, and satellite radio round out the Premium package, significantly enriching the in-car experience.
For enhanced visibility at night, the Lighting package bundles adaptive bi-xenon headlights that adjust to driving conditions and automatic high beams, optimizing illumination and safety.
The Appearance package adds a touch of sporty elegance with 20-inch alloy wheels, lighted running boards for easier entry and exit, and chrome exhaust tips (GL450 only), enhancing the exterior aesthetics.
Safety and driver assistance are further enhanced with the Lane Tracking package, which includes a blind-spot monitor to alert drivers to vehicles in adjacent lanes and lane-keeping assist to help prevent unintentional lane departures. The Parking Assist package simplifies parking maneuvers with front and rear parking sensors, an automated parallel-parking system, and a surround-view camera system, providing a comprehensive view of the vehicle’s surroundings.
Individual options beyond packages include three-zone automatic climate control for enhanced rear passenger comfort, ventilated front seats for cooling comfort in warmer climates, luxurious leather upholstery, a premium 13-speaker Harman Kardon sound system for audiophiles, and “multicontour” front seats that incorporate a massaging feature and adjustable side bolsters and shoulder supports for ultimate seating customization.
Stepping into V8 Power: The GL550
Moving up the range, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL550 builds upon the already extensive feature list of the GL350 and GL450, introducing a powerful V8 engine for enhanced performance. It includes all features mentioned previously and adds 21-inch alloy wheels, further enhancing its road presence. Adaptive suspension dampers improve handling and ride comfort, while sporty exterior styling cues differentiate it visually. Soft-close doors add a touch of luxury and refinement, along with different wood trim and unique dashboard stitching, elevating the interior ambiance.
The Pinnacle of Performance: GL 63 AMG
At the top of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL hierarchy sits the high-performance GL 63 AMG. This model takes luxury and performance to another level, starting with an even more potent V8 engine and a sport exhaust system that announces its presence with authority. Exclusive 21-inch alloy wheels and a sport-tuned suspension further enhance its dynamic capabilities. Upgraded brakes provide confident stopping power, and adaptive stabilizer bars (the “Active Curve System”) minimize body roll for enhanced handling. AMG-specific styling elements inside and out, enhanced bolstering for the front seats, upgraded “designo” leather upholstery, and a flat-bottomed sport steering wheel complete the transformation, creating a truly exhilarating and luxurious SUV experience.
Common Options Across the 2016 GL Range
Regardless of the specific model, all 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL variants could be further customized with a range of standalone options. These included a panoramic sunroof for an expansive open-air feel, heated second-row seats for rear passenger comfort, and the Driver Assistance package, a suite of advanced safety technologies including adaptive cruise control and other safety systems. The GL450 and GL550 also offered an On-/Off-Road package, featuring a six-mode terrain selector, a two-speed transfer case, and front underbody protection, enhancing their capability in varied driving conditions; on the GL450, this package also added the GL550’s standard adaptive dampers.
Further individual options available across the 2016 GL range included a trailer hitch for towing needs, an illuminated grille badge for added visual flair, a heated steering wheel for cold weather comfort, power-sliding second-row seats for easier third-row access, rear side window sunshades for passenger comfort, a rear entertainment system for long journeys, and a high-end 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen BeoSound audio system for an unparalleled auditory experience.
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class offered a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and versatility. From the well-equipped GL350 Bluetec and GL450 to the powerful GL550 and the exhilarating GL 63 AMG, the 2016 GL provided a model for diverse needs and preferences within the full-size luxury SUV segment, solidifying its position as a leader in its class.
