DiamondGeeza

Dont know if this has been posted already but this GL with the AMG bodykit is unbelievable - time for my 2009 450 to go.

http://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/innova...e-FutureModels

dbtk

Yup, but that's only available on the GL550 for now. The GL350 /450 have the less aggressive styling.

ddcha

I test drove the R/T HEMI V8. It felt very much like the GL. The power was similar I'd say, but it growls more and feels a bit more torquey. What I loved was the stiffer/lower suspension, which will likely feel bumpier on rougher roads, but it felt much more planted on the highway with much less body roll. It's a lot of car for the money and I'm a big fan. The scarcity of it is also a positive imo. But can't convince my boss/wife.

jtorrebl

at the nyc auto show they were displaying a gl450 with that amg kit. Are you sure about the non availability?

IDriveAnM5

I bet the feeling of being more planted at highway speed will be present in the new GL thanks to the crosswind stabilization feature. I'm looking forward to try it - though I don't really have a Plan "B" car - probably GL550 or nothing!

BlownV8

The durango has a standard shock and spring suspension. It may not feel the same since the GL uses an air suspension. I don't mind the air suspension in the GL but it is a major failure point in the car. I've had to replace two struts. Had I not been under extended/aftermarket warranty, I would be a few thousand lighter in the pocketbook.

Other than looks, I don't see an upside the the new GL550 over the GL450. Both look to be sharing the same engine with the 550 receiving a more aggressive ECU tune.

dbtk

As I recall there was a white GL550 with body kit on the turntable display. And then (I believe) a gray one on the show floor without the body kit. The body kit is meant to differentiate the GL550 from the lesser GLs.

Innocent_Stud

Yup exactly although I'm sure one could order the sport package if desired on the 450 or 350 Bluetech.

Oh btw, I got to sit in the X166 GL350 Bluetech in the bottom basement of the NYC auto show. Usually such new cars are locked but it was unlocked for 5 minutes do I decided to sit in the passengers seat.

I don't know but it seems to have some plastic but the seats were nice and the navigation screen seemed a little smaller. There's a puck now for the navigation system while the headrests of the 2nd and 3rd row are LARGER so it's to imply that they're more comfortable now.

dbtk

Did you notice the new electric second row folding seats? I was able to sit inside the white GL550 with the Designo brown interior, which was on display. It was very impressive. Not sure how durable it would be for a young family with kids and dogs, but much nicer than the X164. It had matte wood which matched the brown of the leather. I liked the new headliner as well...not alcantara but a new suede-like material.

Innocent_Stud

I wasn't able to sit in the 2nd row so I didn't notice the electric folding 2nd row.
There were 2 guys surrounding the SUV as to deter anyone else from sitting and the driver's seat was blocked off.

dbtk

Here are the options and packages available on the 2013 GLs. It looks like the AMG package is only available on the GL550. The appearance package on the lesser GLs appears to be restricted to illuminated running boards and wheels.
http://www.benzblogger.com/2012/04/2...-packages.html

blittle

Anybody know if the "enhanced off road package" with locking center and rear diffs. is going to be avail on the 2013? It was a special order in 2011 and 12.

Hfdafhx

550 all the way the 320 and 450 are soccer mom cars!!!

Innocent_Stud

So because of different power outputs limited only ECU, of which an ECU tune from any company can fix, the GL550 is not a soccer mom car? And you're implying that soccer mom cars are bad?

Realize that the GL450 and 550 are going to utilize exact same 4.7 Twin Turbo V8... And the 350 and 450 are offered with the sport package as an option.

I mean they can all look exactly the same and the 450 with an ECU tune and match and surpass the power of the 550 since they're the exact same engines...
I'm assuming that's your logic?

Are you just completely ignorant?

dbtk

I like the efficiency of the GL350--more so now that it has the higher output diesel engine. But if I had the choice I would chose the future GL63.

FastMoneyPlaya

550 is just as much of a soccer mom car as the GL350 or GL450... I don't know a single dude that drives a GL - ours is driven by my wife and she loves it. Personally, I would never drive a GL as my own vehicle - I prefer something more sporty like a coupe.

wphughes1

Then there is this. Ordering ours today. Not sure if in the Cinnabar or the Diamond white. Has anyone seen this color?

jdmmbz

I thought the cinnabar color was nice also, it's the hardest decision for me is what color. First for me is either black,white,silver.

IDriveAnM5

...wait...

Your dealer already has the order sheet for the 2013 model? Or, are you going to place your name on a list? Please let us know if you're actually placing the order, or if it is something else. Good luck!

wphughes1

In fact I have the list in my hand right now I had him print it yesterday. If you need to know something let me know.

RedBear

Got this from a dealer...

IDriveAnM5

That pretty much answered my questions about the new GL. Thanks for the post.

Except.... I see all the pricing for the various options and packages, but I don't see the base price of the vehicles anywhere. Can anyone provide the base prices for the entire line? Thanks.

wphughes1

RedBear: What a great post; thanks for the info

Trimmer2

I like MOST of what I see especially the interior of the 550!! What I'm disappointed in is they are only offering the GL550 in the 4.6Ltt
BUT!! I noticed on page 7 "Exterior Highlights" that the visible exhaust tips will be standard on the GL500 (Euro) AND GL63!! BUT, does that mean the 63 will only be offered in Europe?

The ML63 has the 5.5Ltt engine

xxGenericSNxx

I noticed the GL63 comment too. I hope it'll make it to US shores (despite being built here!)