Mercedes GL class
Mercedes is determined to fill every niche in the car market and if necessary create some more niches to accommodate its proliferating model range. The latest addition is the GL-class, a seven seat SUV that is supposed to fit above the ML range and parallel the R-class as a high set and more capable off-roader. It has the same unitary construction as the ML and R. The GL made its debut at the Detroit show and will go on sale in America in the spring. The US will concentrate on the 5.5 litre GL500,4.6 litre GL450 and 4.3 litre GL420, all V8s, while the wider range will include V6 and V8 diesel engines.
The GL is 200in long and 72.4in high with a wheel base of 121in. The third row of seats lowers and stows electrically. Airmatic air suspension is standard. SUV will continue in production at Magna Steyr in Austria. The G-wagen was launched in 1979 and originally sold with both Mercedes and Steryr badges.
