The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class stands out as a luxury SUV, offering a blend of comfort, capability, and advanced features. This model year presented a range of options across different trims, ensuring there was a GL-Class to meet various needs and preferences. Let’s delve into the specifics of what the 2016 GL-Class offered.
The GL350 Bluetec and GL450 models served as the foundation of the 2016 GL-Class lineup. While differing in their powertrains – the GL350 boasting a diesel turbocharged V6 and the GL450 featuring a gasoline turbocharged V6 – they shared a comprehensive list of standard equipment. Externally, both models were equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, a self-leveling air suspension for a smooth ride, automatic headlights, and distinctive LED running lights and taillights. Practicality was also key, with a sunroof, automatic wipers, roof rails, rear privacy glass, power rear quarter-windows, and a power liftgate all included as standard.
Stepping inside the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, the standard features continued to impress. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensured passenger comfort, while “MB-Tex” premium vinyl upholstery provided a luxurious feel. Heated eight-way power front seats with four-way lumbar adjustment catered to driver and front passenger comfort. The convenience of a power-folding third-row seat, a rear cargo area cover, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and genuine wood trim further enhanced the interior ambiance. For in-car technology, the GL-Class featured the COMAND interface controlled via a knob, a 7-inch central display, a rearview camera for easier maneuvering, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and Mercedes mbrace2 emergency communications, including smartphone app integration. A 115-volt household-style power outlet and a sound system with CD/DVD player, HD radio, auxiliary audio jack, SD card reader, and a USB port completed the standard electronics package.
For those seeking even more luxury and convenience in their 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, the Premium package available for the GL350 and GL450 models was a popular upgrade. This package added power-folding exterior mirrors with driver-side auto-dimming, keyless entry and ignition for seamless access, power front head restraints, and memory settings for the driver and front passenger seats. A power-adjustable steering wheel, heated and cooled cupholders, illuminated door sills, and multicolor ambient lighting elevated the cabin experience. Furthermore, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a navigation system with real-time traffic updates, voice controls, 10GB of digital music storage, an iPod/media player interface, and satellite radio were included, enhancing both convenience and entertainment.
Beyond the Premium package, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class offered further customization through additional packages. The Lighting package bundled adaptive bi-xenon headlights and automatic high beams for improved visibility. The Appearance package enhanced the exterior aesthetics with 20-inch alloy wheels, lighted running boards, and chrome exhaust tips (GL450 only). For enhanced safety and driver assistance, the Lane Tracking package added a blind-spot monitor and lane-keeping assist. The Parking Assist package provided front and rear parking sensors, an automated parallel-parking system, and a surround-view camera system, making parking in tight spots significantly easier.
Standalone options allowed for further personalization of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. These included three-zone automatic climate control for more tailored passenger comfort, ventilated front seats for warmer climates, luxurious leather upholstery, a premium 13-speaker Harman Kardon sound system for audiophiles, and “multicontour” front seats featuring a massaging function and adjustable side bolsters and shoulder supports for ultimate seating comfort.
Moving up the trim ladder, the GL550 incorporated many of the aforementioned features as standard and further elevated the offering with a more powerful V8 engine, larger 21-inch alloy wheels, adaptive suspension dampers for enhanced handling, and sporty exterior styling cues. Soft-close doors added a touch of refinement, while different wood trim and unique dashboard stitching differentiated the interior.
Optional across the GL350, GL450, and GL550 models of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class were a panoramic sunroof, heated second-row seats, and the Driver Assistance package. This Driver Assistance package was a significant addition, incorporating adaptive cruise control and several advanced safety technologies designed to enhance driver awareness and safety. For those planning to venture off the beaten path, the GL450 and GL550 could also be equipped with an On-/Off-Road package, which included a six-mode terrain selector, a two-speed transfer case, and front underbody protection. Notably, on the GL450, this package also added the GL550’s standard adaptive dampers.
At the pinnacle of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class range was the high-performance GL 63 AMG. Building upon the already extensive feature list, the GL 63 AMG boasted an even more potent V8 engine, a sport exhaust system for an exhilarating sound, exclusive 21-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, adaptive stabilizer bars (Mercedes-Benz’s “Active Curve System”), and AMG-specific styling elements both inside and out. Enhanced bolstering for the front seats, upgraded “designo” leather upholstery, and a flat-bottomed sport steering wheel further emphasized the sporty nature of this top-tier model.
Finally, for all 2016 GL-Class models, additional standalone options included a trailer hitch for towing, an illuminated grille badge for a distinctive front appearance, a heated steering wheel for cold climates, power-sliding second-row seats for easier third-row access, rear side window sunshades for passenger comfort, a rear entertainment system to keep rear passengers occupied, and a high-end 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen BeoSound audio system for an unparalleled audio experience.
In conclusion, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class offered a comprehensive and luxurious SUV experience. From the well-equipped GL350 and GL450 to the performance-oriented GL 63 AMG, and with a wide array of packages and standalone options, the 2016 GL-Class catered to a broad spectrum of buyers seeking a premium SUV with versatility and a range of features to suit diverse needs and preferences.
