Category: Large 4x4s 
Price Range: £67,485 to £67,485
Road presence, performance, Mercedes image
Absolutely huge exterior, but cabin not that roomy; M-Class is better-looking
Only consider the GL if you absolutely have to have seven seats and off-roading capability - or want to make a big statement. The R-Class and M-Class are more practical options and cost thousands less.
The GL's unitised body construction allows for deformable sections front and rear, which means it should offer good protection to occupants in a crash, as compared with an old-school ladder-frame chassis with less room for manoeuvre. As sheer laws of physics dictate, a vehicle this large stands a better chance in an impact than a smaller one, though high-riding SUVs are more at risk of a rollover; ESP (stability control) helps to guard against this.
The GL also offers the Pre-Safe system first seen on the S-Class. This uses the ABS and ESP sensors to determine if the car is about to crash, based on the systems' chances of success in salvaging a skid or violent manoeuvre. If a crash is deemed inevitable, the belts are pulled taut, the electric front seats are optimally positioned and the sunroof, if fitted, is closed. Another option is Neck-Pro, an 'active head restraint' as already seen in other cars. This acts to support the head against whiplash forces. Curtain airbags are fitted across all three rows of seats.
The GL's locking system consists of an electronic key with infrared remote control and an immobiliser. Keyless Go, which allows the doors and tailgate to be opened without a key and engine-starting with a button, is optional.
