Legendary Mercedes GL-Class 2016 Interior: Perfect Comfort

Discover the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class interior: Experience unparalleled comfort, luxurious materials, and advanced technology designed for ultimate enjoyment on every journey.

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class interior is a masterclass in luxury and practicality. Known for its spaciousness and premium feel, this full-size SUV delivers an exceptional experience for drivers and passengers alike. If you’re seeking a refined cabin that offers both comfort and cutting-edge features, the 2016 GL-Class is a standout choice. Let’s explore what makes its interior so legendary.

This guide will walk you through the key elements of the 2016 GL-Class interior, from seating and materials to technology and storage. You’ll learn why this vehicle continues to be a benchmark for luxury SUVs.

Table of Contents

Unrivaled Comfort: Seating and Space

The heart of any luxury SUV is its seating, and the 2016 GL-Class excels here. Designed with passenger comfort as a top priority, every seat offers ample space and support for long drives.

The Power of Power Seats and Adjustments

The front seats are typically 14-way power-adjustable, allowing you to find your perfect driving position with ease. This includes lumbar support, seat cushion depth, and recline. Memory settings are standard, so you can recall your preferred positions with the touch of a button.

Driver’s Seat: Offers extensive adjustments for peak comfort.
Front Passenger Seat: Mirrors the driver’s adjustability for premium experience.
Lumbar Support: Adjustable to prevent fatigue on longer journeys.
Memory Function: Stores your preferred seat settings for up to three drivers.

The second-row seating continues this theme of comfort. It’s a bench seat designed for three, offering a generous amount of legroom and headroom. The 60/40 split-folding capability makes it versatile for carrying passengers or cargo.

The Third Row: Surprisingly Spacious

One of the GL-Class’s key advantages is its usable third row. Unlike many SUVs where the third row is often cramped, the 2016 GL-Class provides enough space for adults to sit comfortably for shorter trips, and it’s ideal for children.

Easy Access: Power-folding second-row seats provide convenient access to the third row.
Comfortable Seating: Designed for more than just occasional use, offering decent support.
Climate Control: Rear climate controls ensure comfort for all passengers.

Premium Upholstery and Materials

Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its meticulous attention to material quality, and the 2016 GL-Class interior is no exception. Standard comfort comes in the form of supple MB-Tex upholstery, but most models are equipped with luxurious leather.

Leather Options: A wide array of high-quality leather colors and finishes are available.
Wood Trim: Real wood accents, such as Burl Walnut or Piano Black, add a touch of sophistication.
Soft-Touch Surfaces: Dashboard, door panels, and center console feature premium, soft-touch materials.

Advanced Technology and Infotainment

Beyond comfort, the 2016 GL-Class boasts a sophisticated technology suite designed to enhance the driving experience and keep occupants entertained.

The COMAND System: Your Command Center

The centerpiece of the dashboard is the COMAND infotainment system. This user-friendly interface controls navigation, audio, climate, and vehicle settings. It’s operated via a central dial and buttons on the center console, along with controls on the steering wheel.

Navigation: Integrated GPS navigation with clear, intuitive mapping.
Audio Options: AM/FM/CD/DVD player, USB connectivity, Bluetooth audio streaming, and an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Display: A large, vibrant screen displays all system information clearly.

The system is designed for ease of use. While it might seem complex at first glance, the logical layout and tactile controls make it straightforward to master. For a deeper dive into operating the system, you can always consult the official Mercedes-Benz GL-Class owner’s manual.

Driver Assistance Features

The 2016 GL-Class comes equipped with a suite of advanced driver assistance systems that work to enhance safety and reduce driver strain.

Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC PLUS): Maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead.
Active Lane Keeping Assist: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
Blind Spot Assist: Warns the driver of vehicles in the blind spots.
Parking Assist (PARKTRONIC): Aids in parking maneuvers.

These features work seamlessly in the background, providing an extra layer of security and comfort, especially on long highway drives.

Convenience Features

Little touches make a big difference in luxury vehicles. The 2016 GL-Class interior includes features that enhance everyday convenience.

Keyless Go: Allows you to unlock, start, and drive the vehicle without using the key.
Power Liftgate: Opens and closes the rear liftgate at the touch of a button.
Heated and Ventilated Seats: For ultimate comfort in any weather.
Panoramic Sunroof: Creates an airy, open cabin atmosphere.

Interior Design and Ambiance

The design of the 2016 GL-Class interior strikes a masterful balance between elegance and functionality, creating an environment that is both luxurious and inviting.

Dashboard and Console Layout

The dashboard is characterized by clean lines and a driver-focused design. The instrument cluster provides essential information at a glance, with elegant gauges and a central display. The center console is thoughtfully designed, housing the gear selector, COMAND controller, and various storage compartments.

Ergonomic Design: Controls are within easy reach of the driver.
Premium Finishes: High-quality materials and precise stitching are evident throughout.
Illuminated Entry: Welcome lights illuminate the cabin and door sills at night.

Ambient Lighting

Subtle ambient lighting is integrated into the cabin, casting a soft glow that enhances the luxurious feel, especially in low-light conditions. This feature can often be adjusted to suit personal preference, further personalizing the interior experience.

Practicality: Storage and Versatility

While luxury is paramount, the 2016 GL-Class doesn’t compromise on practicality, offering intelligent storage solutions and flexible cargo space.

Cabin Storage Solutions

The cabin is dotted with thoughtful storage compartments to keep small items organized and within reach.

Center Console Storage: A spacious bin under the armrest, often with USB ports and 12v outlets.
Door Pockets: Large pockets in the doors can hold water bottles and other essentials.
Glove Compartment: A cooled glovebox can be useful for keeping drinks chilled on hot days.
Cup Holders: Multiple cup holders are conveniently placed throughout the cabin.

Cargo Capacity

The GL-Class is a large SUV, and its interior space translates into impressive cargo capacity. When all seats are in use, there is still a reasonable amount of space behind the third row. Folding down the third row significantly expands the cargo area.

The power liftgate makes loading and unloading easier, and the low load floor of the cargo area is designed for convenience.

Maintaining Your 2016 GL-Class Interior

Keeping the luxurious interior of your 2016 GL-Class in pristine condition ensures its longevity and your continued enjoyment. Regular cleaning and maintenance are key.

Cleaning Upholstery

Leather: Use a dedicated leather cleaner and conditioner every few months to prevent drying and cracking. For spills, blot immediately with a clean cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
MB-Tex: This synthetic material is very durable. A mild soap and water solution with a soft cloth is usually sufficient for cleaning.

Interior Detailing

Dashboard and Trim: Use an interior protectant spray designed for automotive interiors. Avoid products that leave a greasy residue.
Carpets and Floor Mats: Vacuum regularly. For deep cleaning, use a carpet cleaner or have them professionally shampooed.
* Screens and Buttons: Use a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with water or an electronics-safe cleaner to wipe down screens and control buttons.

For detailed maintenance schedules and tips specific to your vehicle, always refer to your 2016 GL-Class Owner’s Manual. Following the recommended service intervals from Mercedes-Benz is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and interior condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What kind of upholstery comes standard in the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class?

The standard upholstery is MB-Tex, a high-quality synthetic material that mimics the feel of leather. However, many models are equipped with actual leather upholstery, which was a popular option and often part of higher trim levels.

Is the third row comfortable for adults in the 2016 GL-Class?

The third row in the 2016 GL-Class is more accommodating than in many other SUVs of its time. While it’s certainly suitable for children and teenagers, adults can comfortably use the third row for shorter journeys. It offers decent legroom and headroom for its class.

Does the 2016 GL-Class interior have a good sound system?

Yes, the 2016 GL-Class comes standard with a quality audio system. However, many vehicles were optioned with the premium Harman Kardon LOGIC 7 surround sound system, which offers a truly immersive and rich audio experience.

How do you operate the COMAND infotainment system in the 2016 GL-Class?

The COMAND system is controlled primarily via a central rotary dial and physical buttons located on the center console, between the front seats. There are also controls on the steering wheel. This setup allows for intuitive access to navigation, audio, phone functions, and vehicle settings.

What features enhance comfort in the front seats of the 2016 GL-Class?

The front seats are typically 14-way power-adjustable, featuring power lumbar support, seat cushion adjustments, and recline functions. Many models also include heated and ventilated front seats, along with memory functions for driver profiles.

How much cargo space does the 2016 GL-Class offer?

The 2016 GL-Class offers versatile cargo space. With all seats in use, there’s about 35.1 cubic feet. Folding the third row opens up to approximately 77.3 cubic feet, and folding both the second and third rows yields a maximum cargo capacity of around 93.8 cubic feet.

Are there USB ports and Bluetooth compatibility in the 2016 GL-Class interior?

Yes, the 2016 GL-Class is generally equipped with USB ports for charging devices and connecting media players, typically located in the center console. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming is also standard.

Conclusion

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class interior stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s dedication to creating a truly luxurious and comfortable driving environment. From the supple leather and real wood trims to the advanced COMAND infotainment system and the thoughtful placement of convenience features, every element is crafted to elevate the ownership experience.

The spacious seating, including a surprisingly habitable third row, combined with ample cargo versatility, ensures this SUV is as practical as it is opulent. Whether you’re embarking on a cross-country road trip or navigating daily errands, the cabin provides a serene and comfortable sanctuary. Its legendary status is well-earned, solidifying its place as a benchmark in the full-size luxury SUV segment. Owning a 2016 GL-Class means embracing a world where comfort, technology, and refined design converge perfectly.

Legendary Mercedes GL-Class 2016 Interior: Perfect Comfort