GL-Class (X166) [Official] Mercedes-Benz GL-Class (X166)

[Wolfgang]

Motoring has the latest scoop for us.

Daimler boss backs Maybach SUV

But he makes it clear there will be no Benz-badged rival for Audi's pint-size Q1

Daimler boss Dieter Zetsche has strongly hinted a large luxury SUV will sit atop the new Mercedes-Maybach range but dismissed any prospect of the three-pointed star going any smaller than the GLA to take on the forthcoming Audi Q1 mini crossover.

The prospects for an SUV for the reborn Maybach super-luxury sub-brand based on the GLS -- as the facelifted GL-Class (pictured) will be known -- has been previously reported by motoring.com.au.

A hyper-luxury SUV makes sense considering Volkswagen-owned Bentley will show the Bentayga later this year and before launching it in 2016, while BMW-owned Rolls-Royce has confirmed it is also due to join the SUV party to take on established segment leader Range Rover.

“There is no decision made but it (a luxury SUV) is certainly a possibility,” Zetsche told Australian media at last week’s launch of the Mercedes-AMG C 63 in Portugal. “It’s not a weird idea.”

Zetsche stressed the reliance a Maybach SUV would have on existing Mercedes-Benz SUV architecture, in the same way the freshly launched Maybach S 600 limousine (the interior of which is pictured here) is closely based on the latest S-Class.

“It would not be a stand-alone product,” he confirmed. “It would not be like Rolls-Royce -- which I don’t know to which extent it leans on any BMW portfolio elements -- for which it (an SUV) would be a kind of stand-alone.

“That would not be the case for us. If we pursued that it would be related to our existing or next-generation portfolio and therefore would be linked to that cycle which we have on that side.”

That is likely to mean a 2018 debut for a Maybach SUV. Whenever it does arrive, Zetsche made it clear why the luxury SUV boom appeals to him.

“These segments are in general more profitable than the sedan segment so that is why manufacturers are not offended by this kind of development,” he said.

Meanwhile a new mini-SUV has been mooted for Benz because of last year’s G-Code concept. BMW is also being rumoured to move below the X1 with a smaller model.

But so far Audi is the only member of the German prestige and luxury big three to commit, announcing the Q1 will be on sale next year.

But Zetsche said there was no plan for Benz to go below GLA, which is based on the same MFA front/all-wheel drive architecture as the A-, B- and CLA-Class.

“GLA is a part of our compact car family and going underneath that would mean to go into the A segment or B segment and we are doing that with Smart. We are not considering doing that with Mercedes, no matter with a sedan or two-box vehicle, or an SUV.

“There is no place for an SUV there, so therefore the answer is no.

“We don’t have an A1, we don’t plan for an A1 so therefore we don’t plan for a family in that segment.”

Clearly that reply leaves the way open for Smart to carry the baton against the Q1 for Mercedes-Benz. That potential model is said to have been previewed by the Smart Forstars ‘Sports Utility Coupe’ concept first shown at the Paris show in 2012.

It also leaves open the possibility of spinning more SUV-style offerings alongside the GLA from the second-generation MFA2 architecture currently being developed. For instance, a GLG/GLB baby G-wagen has been mooted for 2019 production.

http://www.motoring.com.au/news/2015/maybach/daimler-boss-backs-maybach-suv-49465

 

[Wolfgang]

Spotted a GL participating in MBRT15.

 

[Wolfgang]

The next Mercedes-Maybach may not be a SUV? The S Coupe might come first, perhaps?

So far we have:

Mercedes-Maybach S-Class
Mercedes-Maybach Pullman


Is Merc planning a Maybach SUV?
Benz VP tells TG of plans for further hyper-lux Maybach models, including a 4x4

Fancy the idea of a big, luxury Mercedes-Maybach SUV? Well, you might be in luck, oh discerning Middle Eastern oil baron!

Speaking to TopGear.com, the vice president of the firm's SUV and sports car division said a yet-posher Merc 4x4 is under consideration.

Wolf Dieter-Kurz, talking at this year's New York Motor Show, told TG that though MB hasn't decided on an SUV as the next Maybach in the line-up, it's definitely a possibility.

"There are several [Maybach] options within the Mercedes portfolio," he said, "it's just obviously a question of which one comes first."

When it appears, such a Maybach could also be offered as a hybrid, too, following in the footsteps of the GLE 500e launched at New York; a car that essentially uses the S-Class hybrid's drivetrain. "This is always an option," says Dieter-Kurz. "We see the hybrid models as a growing part of the segment overall," he added.

In fact, Mercedes is promising ten new plug-in hybrids by 2017 across the entire range. And a potential fully electric SUV at some point in the future, too. "There are other brands talking about electric SUVS," he said, "so we're keeping an eye on that, but if you're looking at the future of electric vehicles, you have to look at your entire portfolio."

So, the new GLE is the car formerly known as the ML, here unveiled at the New York Motor Show as a facelifted model. "The front bumper, bonnet, wings, and lights are completely new," he told us. "The rear is also new, we further refined the suspension and the steering to make it more direct, with less body roll, than its predecessor."

Dieter-Kurz also hinted that a self-driving Mercedes SUV might not be too far away. "We still have a way to go with autonomous driving," he stated, "but if it's there, it's technically no issue to put the system into any one of the model range."

Source: TopGear

 

[tennmb]

They should first focus on getting the GL to actual S-class level, then they can worry about a Maybach. Cart before horse, IMO.

 

[Wolfgang]

^Agreed. Will probably be based on the next generation GLS around 2018 or so.

Daimler boss backs Maybach SUV
But he makes it clear there will be no Benz-badged rival for Audi's pint-size Q1

Daimler boss Dieter Zetsche has strongly hinted a large luxury SUV will sit atop the new Mercedes-Maybach range but dismissed any prospect of the three-pointed star going any smaller than the GLA to take on the forthcoming Audi Q1 mini crossover.

The prospects for an SUV for the reborn Maybach super-luxury sub-brand based on the GLS -- as the facelifted GL-Class (pictured) will be known -- has been previously reported by motoring.com.au.

A hyper-luxury SUV makes sense considering Volkswagen-owned Bentley will show the Bentayga later this year and before launching it in 2016, while BMW-owned Rolls-Royce has confirmed it is also due to join the SUV party to take on established segment leader Range Rover.

“There is no decision made but it (a luxury SUV) is certainly a possibility,” Zetsche told Australian media at last week’s launch of the Mercedes-AMG C 63 in Portugal. “It’s not a weird idea.”

Zetsche stressed the reliance a Maybach SUV would have on existing Mercedes-Benz SUV architecture, in the same way the freshly launched Maybach S 600 limousine the interior of which is pictured here) is closely based on the latest S-Class.

“It would not be a stand-alone product,” he confirmed. “It would not be like Rolls-Royce -- which I don’t know to which extent it leans on any BMW portfolio elements -- for which it (an SUV) would be a kind of stand-alone.

“That would not be the case for us. If we pursued that it would be related to our existing or next-generation portfolio and therefore would be linked to that cycle which we have on that side.”

That is likely to mean a 2018 debut for a Maybach SUV. Whenever it does arrive, Zetsche made it clear why the luxury SUV boom appeals to him.

“These segments are in general more profitable than the sedan segment so that is why manufacturers are not offended by this kind of development,” he said.

Meanwhile a new mini-SUV has been mooted for Benz because of last year’s G-Code concept. BMW is also being rumoured to move below the X1 with a smaller model.

But so far Audi is the only member of the German prestige and luxury big three to commit, announcing the Q1 will be on sale next year.

But Zetsche said there was no plan for Benz to go below GLA, which is based on the same MFA front/all-wheel drive architecture as the A-, B- and CLA-Class.

“GLA is a part of our compact car family and going underneath that would mean to go into the A segment or B segment and we are doing that with Smart. We are not considering doing that with Mercedes, no matter with a sedan or two-box vehicle, or an SUV.

“There is no place for an SUV there, so therefore the answer is no.

“We don’t have an A1, we don’t plan for an A1 so therefore we don’t plan for a family in that segment.”

Clearly that reply leaves the way open for Smart to carry the baton against the Q1 for Mercedes-Benz. That potential model is said to have been previewed by the Smart Forstars ‘Sports Utility Coupe’ concept first shown at the Paris show in 2012.

It also leaves open the possibility of spinning more SUV-style offerings alongside the GLA from the second-generation MFA2 architecture currently being developed. For instance, a GLB baby G-wagen has been mooted for 2019 production.

Source: motoring.com.au

 

[rjanthony]

Someone posted this in the mbworld forum today.

2016 GLS Rumors - MBWorld.org Forums

A dealer email received today....

Upcoming Mercedes-Benz Name Changes

Your favorite Mercedes-Benz SUV (and one roadster) will soon be given a new moniker.

The first wave of these nomenclature changes will occur in model year 2016 (Calendar Year 2015). As the 2016 SUV models start rolling off the delivery trucks, you’ll notice that there will be no more familiar GLK’s, ML’s or GL’s. All 2016 Mercedes-Benz SUV names will begin with a “GL” (in honor of the iconic G-Class SUV).

The reason for this change is to create a simpler logic and more organized naming conventions for Mercedes-Benz vehicles in their respective categories. The logic behind the 3rd letter in the name is the core model. So, for example, the “GLK-Class” is based on the “C” core model, and hence will be renamed the “GLC-Class” in model year 2016.

Here is the list of the updated nomenclature for model year 2016:

Previous Name Core Model MY 2016 Name
GLK-Class C-Class GLC-Class
M-Class E-Class GLE-Class
GL-Class S-Class GLS-Class
SLK-Class C-Class SLC-Class

In addition to these Mercedes-Benz class name changes, there will also be new designations given to the engines. Goodbye BlueTEC®, and PLUG-IN-HYBRID, hello “d” for “diesel” , “e” for “electric”, “f” for “F-CELL” and “h” for HYBRID and BlueTEC® HYBRID. If you have any additional questions about these upcoming name changes, please feel free to contact us via our website or give us a call at (877) 226-3798.

 

[Mr. Mercedes]

If this is to be the GLS then this is the standard we expect of the interior! Only then is it a true 'S'.

 

[Padi]

Previous Name Core Model MY 2016 Name
GLK-Class C-Class GLC-Class
M-Class E-Class GLE-Class
GL-Class S-Class GLS-Class
SLK-Class C-Class SLC-Class

Finally I understand the logic behind these new names, now I'm a bit ashamed I didn't figure it out by myself Still preferred the old names as I've gotten used to them already. Maybe the new system will be easier for people not into cars though.

And that interior would look really good, not a fan of any MB SUV interiors to date.

 

[Wolfgang]

An update for our Australian friends.

Mercedes-Benz GL-Class range updated
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class SUV range has been updated with revised pricing and equipment levels.

Mercedes-Benz‘s largest SUV is now available in four model grades: the entry-level GL350 BlueTEC Limited Edition; GL350 BlueTEC Edition S; GL500 Edition S; and flagship GL63 AMG. There are no images of the new models yet, but buyers can see them in showrooms in the coming weeks.

The entry-level diesel GL350 model has been updated with new gear such as metallic paint, a Harman Kardon stereo system with DAB digital radio, keyless entry and push-button start, a new 20-inch wheel design, and a new-look wood interior finish. Along with the new goodies, the price has dropped by a huge $14,645 to $114,900 plus on-road costs.

It retains the same 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo diesel engine with 190kW and 620Nm. Power goes to all four wheels through a seven-speed automatic gearbox.

Previously there were no Edition S models, and those variants are designed to add to the sporting appeal of the large seven-seat SUV ahead of an updated model’s arrival, possibly in 2016. That model will be known as the GLS-Class under the brand’s new naming structure.

The new GL350 Edition S adds $20K to the price but uses the same diesel drivetrain. Its sporty additions include an AMG Sports Package with a body kit, flared wheel arches, 19-inch brakes (perforated front) and 21-inch alloy wheels finished in matt black.

This model also has Benz’s Active Curve system, which is said to “markedly” enhance ride comfort by adapting the stabiliser bars when cornering, lessening body roll.

The newly named GL500 Edition S remains powered by the brand’s 4.7-litre V8 petrol engine, which pumps out 320kW and 700Nm, and it also has permanent four-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic gearbox.

Equipment highlights – aside from the new AMG Sports Package and 21-inch rims – include a panoramic sunroof, rear sunblinds, digital TV tuner, and temperature controlled cupholders for this model, which has seen a price jump over the existing GL500 of $5355 – now $159,900.

The flagship GL63 AMG version – powered by a 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 with 410kW/760Nm – now gets the AMG Drivers Package, which sees its top speed raised to 270km/h. Other new bits for this model include heated and cooled front seats, microfibre headlining, and a new high-grade designo leather trim that used to cost $5000 as an option.

Mercedes-Benz GL-Class pricing, plus on-road costs:
GL350 BlueTEC Limited Edition – $114,900
GL350 BlueTEC Edition S – $134,900
GL500 Edition S – $159,900
GL63 AMG – $214,900

Read more at Mercedes-Benz GL-Class range updated | CarAdvice

 

[Wolfgang]

In March 2015 a recall for the Mercedes-Benz GL started in Germany due to a malfunction of the outer head restraints in the second row. If excessive force is applied from behind the headrest does not remain in its set position and will therefore be exchanged under recall. According to the KBA this applies to 2012 and 2013 GL-Class vehicles. Owners were notified already, starting in March 2015. Translated from MB Passion

 

[Wolfgang]

When will the name change from GL to GLS take place? Some options being discussed:

• with the upcoming model year 2016
• with the facelift which is due maybe with model year 2017
• with the next generation of the vehicle in a few years, perhaps 2019.

The Kuka lettering robots are ready, whatever MB management should decide, according to rumors emanating from MB World discussions.

Made in Alabama

 

[rjanthony]

If they change to GLS without other changes it would not make sense at all.

 

[Wolfgang]

In that case they might argue thusly:

MB director of sales Ola Källenius: We renew the M-Class, we bring a totally new SUV Coupe, replace the GL and bring the new GLK successor, developed from scratch. Within twelve months we will completely renew our SUV lineup.

Thus, now is the right time to transfer the logic of the S, E, C, B, A to the SUVs. It is a unique opportunity. And as Auto Motor und Sport had written, the GL is the S-Class in the SUV category. Logically it will become the GLS now. Although the designation M-class is replaced by GLE: Everyone understands the new logic immediately.

http://www.germancarforum.com/threads/mercedes-benz-gle-coupe.52316/page-9#post-728072

 

[Sovereign]

Spotted a GL participating in MBRT15.

Still the best looking SUV is the oldest design... the G.

 

[Wolfgang]

Benzblogger says the GL won't change its name until next year.


The GL and SLK will not change until next year when they get refreshed/redesigned.

http://www.benzblogger.com/2015/06/2016-mercedes-benz-model-names-launch-dates.html

 

[Merc1]

^ That makes the most sense.

M

 

[hannaz]

the GL is the S-Class in the SUV category. Logically it will become the GLS now. Although the designation M-class is replaced by GLE: Everyone understands the new logic immediately.

It's easier to understand and get digested with the re-badging, much easier than Audi's new number game although. But I can't find GL as the S-Class of SUVs, it's more or less the same as GLE or M-Class in respect of interior design, luxury and material quality, except for the space. And even the the second row seat only comes as bench seat and doesn't have exclusive seat options. Even in exterior looks, GL doesn't have the majestic look of Range Rover or even the G-wagon. So Mercedes should thoroughly re-think on continuing GLS as the bigger version of GLE. Other wise, retain the GL as such and introduce a better option as GLS with a distinguish design and luxury.

 

[Wolfgang]

Yes, suspect MB may further distinguish the GLS in the future, including offering more seating options for the second row, perhaps by increasing the reclining angle, optional captain's chairs and so on. In the meantime, for the new model year 2016, the GL name continues with few changes in the US market.


GL

GL350-4M BlueTec - early August - $64,550
GL450-4M - early August - $66,200
GL550-4M - early August - $91,300
GL63 AMG - early August - $121,100

GL-Class

For MY16, the GL-Class includes 5 years of mbrace services as standard. Please also note the deletion of 151 - Cinnabar Red metallic (MY17 designo Cardinal Red will be introduced).

Photos: Daimler

 

[tennmb]

The GL is really NOT the S-class in the SUV category. Mercedes has a void, and has once again under estimated the high end of the SUV market. A mistake they made in 98 and have had a hard time shaking.

The GL has the exact same front and rear interior dimensions as the ML. (Exactly the same.) that is not S-class. The GL is outfitted with the same dash, electronics, etc. Exactly the same. That is NOT S-class. The GL is a long wheel base ML that managed no additional leg room out of the longer wheel base. That won't cut it with what the Range Rover and BMW will soon be bringing to market.
If Mercedes made a car on an E-class platform, with the same interior room as the E-class, added a few inches to the length, added air suspension and a few other mods, but had no additional rear legroom, and then called it an S-class, would you agree? Hell no. You'd say, what the hell are you trying to pull over on me.

When you look at the Maybach (and I have one on the showroom BTW) it isn't any more impressive inside than the regular S-class with Executive seating and leather. There isn't any particular unique trim or differentiation. You are paying for the 8 inches of added space and of course the V12.
I agree, the GL ought to present an S-class size and trim SUV. And I believe at $100k plus, Mercedes would sell them hand over fist. And you could still have a long wheel base GLE with 3rd row seating.

 

[Merc1]

^ I'm hoping that for the next generation they will finally give the GL it's proper place in the market, along side the S-Class. I agree it needs to be totally different from the GLE.

M