Mercedes GL-Class 2017: Ultimate Luxury Features
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is a pinnacle of full-size luxury SUVs. Its ultimate features include a potent V8 engine, opulent interior crafted with premium materials, advanced safety and infotainment systems, and remarkable comfort for up to seven passengers, making it a truly sophisticated and capable vehicle.
Hello and welcome, fellow Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a vehicle that defined spacious luxury for its era: the 2017 iteration of the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. If you’re considering this magnificent SUV or simply appreciate the finer things in automotive engineering, you’re in the right place. Many wonder what truly sets the GL-Class apart, especially when looking at its generous features. It’s easy to get lost in specifications, but understanding the experience these features offer is key. We’re going to unpack the ultimate luxury elements of the 2017 GL-Class, making it clear and simple for everyone. Let’s explore what makes this Benz a standout.
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: A Masterclass in Luxury SUV Design
The 2017 GL-Class, which would later be renamed the GLS-Class, represented the zenith of large, family-friendly luxury SUVs from Mercedes-Benz. It was designed for those who demanded exceptional comfort, cutting-edge technology, and formidable performance without compromise. This full-size SUV wasn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it was about doing so in unparalleled style and sophistication.
Under the Hood: Power Meets Refinement
At its core, the 2017 GL-Class offered robust powertrains engineered for both effortless cruising and confident acceleration. Mercedes-Benz understood that true luxury involves seamless power delivery.
Engine Options: A Choice of Potent V8s
The primary engines available for the 2017 GL-Class showcased Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to powerful and smooth performance.
- GL 450 4MATIC: Featured a 3.0-liter biturbo V6 engine. While not a V8, it provided excellent power and efficiency for its class, producing 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. This was the entry point for V6 power in the GL lineup for this model year, offering a balanced blend of performance and economy.
- GL 550 4MATIC: Equipped with a more potent 4.7-liter biturbo V8 engine. This powertrain delivered a commanding 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, offering substantial acceleration and towing capability, truly embodying the “ultimate luxury” for those seeking more.
Both engines were paired with Mercedes-Benz’s 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifts and ability to optimize fuel efficiency by keeping the engine in its most efficient operating range. The standard 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensured exceptional traction and stability in various driving conditions, from slippery roads to off-road adventures.
Exterior Design: Timeless Elegance and Presence
The 2017 GL-Class boasted an exterior that was both imposing and elegantly sculpted. It projected an image of strength and sophistication, reflecting its premium status.
Key Design Elements:
- Bold Grille and Headlights: The signature Mercedes-Benz grille, flanked by distinctive LED daytime running lights and advanced bi-xenon headlamps, gave the GL-Class a commanding and recognizable front fascia.
- Sculpted Body Lines: Smooth, flowing lines and subtle creases across the body panels contributed to an aerodynamic profile while maintaining a muscular stance.
- Chrome Accents: Strategically placed chrome detailing on the grille, window surrounds, and tailgate added touches of opulence.
- Robust Wheel Options: Available in various alloy wheel sizes, from 19 to 21 inches, these wheels complemented the vehicle’s substantial presence and offered different aesthetic choices.
- Integrated Roof Rails: Standard roof rails provided practicality for carrying extra luggage or gear, hinting at the vehicle’s versatility for adventurous lifestyles.
The overall design struck a balance between being a powerful, capable SUV and a refined luxury vehicle, making it suitable for everything from school runs to cross-country journeys.
The Heart of Luxury: The Interior Experience
Stepping inside the 2017 GL-Class is where the “ultimate luxury” truly unfolds. Mercedes-Benz meticulously crafted the cabin to be a sanctuary of comfort, technology, and premium craftsmanship.
Unparalleled Comfort: Seating for Seven
The GL-Class was designed to accommodate families and groups with its three-row seating configuration. Every passenger was considered in the design.
- First-Class Seating: The front seats typically offered 14-way power adjustment, heating, ventilation, and even massage functions in higher trims. Premium leather upholstery, sourced from the finest hides, was standard.
- Spacious Second Row: The second-row seats provided ample legroom and headroom. They could often slide and recline, offering greater flexibility. Easy-entry access to the third row was a thoughtful touch.
- Comfortable Third Row: While third rows in SUVs can often be an afterthought, the GL-Class provided a usable space for children or even adults on shorter journeys. The seats were powered, folding flat for expanded cargo space when needed.
The cabin’s thoughtful layout ensured that even on long drives, passengers would arrive feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Premium Materials and Craftsmanship
The tactile and visual experience of the 2017 GL-Class interior was paramount. Mercedes-Benz used only the finest materials.
- Genuine Wood Trim: Options like Burl Walnut or Black Ash wood trim adorned the dashboard, center console, and door panels, adding a classic and warm aesthetic.
- High-Quality Leather: Beyond the seating, leather or leatherette was used on the dashboard, steering wheel, and door insets, creating a cohesive and luxurious feel.
- Soft-Touch Surfaces: Nearly every surface you touched felt comfortable and high-quality, from the armrests to the door pulls.
- Illuminated Door Sills: Branded Mercedes-Benz illuminated door sills added a final touch of elegance upon entry and exit.
The attention to detail in stitching, fit, and finish was exemplary, living up to the Mercedes-Benz standard.
Advanced Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2017 GL-Class integrated cutting-edge technology to keep drivers and passengers informed, entertained, and connected.
- COMAND® System: The central infotainment hub, the COMAND® system (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display), featured a high-resolution color display. It controlled audio, navigation, and vehicle settings.
- Navigation System: Standard or available with a sophisticated GPS navigation system, providing clear, turn-by-turn directions with real-time traffic information.
- Premium Audio: High-fidelity sound systems, often from renowned manufacturer Harman Kardon®, delivered immersive audio quality.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Standard Bluetooth® integration allowed for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
- Optional Rear-Seat Entertainment: For family trips, an optional rear-seat entertainment system with dual screens provided entertainment for those in the second row.
The interface was designed to be intuitive, allowing for easy access to features without being overly distracting.
Innovations and Features for Ultimate Convenience
Beyond comfort and entertainment, the 2017 GL-Class was packed with innovative features designed to enhance convenience, safety, and the overall driving experience.
Intuitive Control and Driving Aids
Mercedes-Benz is a pioneer in automotive technology, and the GL-Class was a prime example of this.
- Keyless-Go: With the key fob in your pocket, you could unlock doors, start the engine, and drive away seamlessly.
- Power Liftgate: A hands-free power liftgate made loading and unloading cargo incredibly easy, especially when your hands were full.
- Panorama Sunroof: Available on many models, the expansive panoramic sunroof flooded the cabin with natural light, creating an airy and open atmosphere.
- Multi-Zone Climate Control: For personalized comfort, multi-zone automatic climate control allowed different temperature settings for the driver, front passenger, and rear occupants.
- 360° Camera System: This advanced system provided a bird’s-eye view around the vehicle, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces significantly easier and safer.
These features, while seemingly small, contribute significantly to the everyday usability and luxury feel of the vehicle.
Safety First: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
Safety is a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz, and the 2017 GL-Class was equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features.
- Active Lane Keeping Assist: Monitored lane markings and could apply gentle steering corrections if the vehicle began to drift out of its lane unintentionally.
- Active Blind Spot Assist: Warned the driver if another vehicle was detected in the blind spot and could intervene with braking to help prevent a collision.
- DISTRONIC PLUS® (Adaptive Cruise Control): Maintained a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically braking and accelerating as needed in traffic. This was a significant step towards semi-autonomous driving.
- COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS: Provided forward collision warnings and could automatically apply braking to mitigate or prevent a crash if the driver didn’t react.
- PRE-SAFE® System: This innovative system could detect an imminent collision and proactively prepare the vehicle by tightening seatbelts, adjusting seats, and closing windows and the sunroof.
- Trailer Stability Assist: When towing, this system helped to counteract trailer sway for increased stability.
These intelligent systems provided an unparalleled layer of protection and peace of mind for occupants. For more information on vehicle safety standards, you can refer to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Capability Beyond Expectations
The 2017 GL-Class wasn’t just a luxurious boulevard cruiser; it possessed genuine off-road credentials and impressive towing prowess, making it a truly versatile vehicle.
OFF-ROAD PRO Engineering Package
For those who ventured off the beaten path, the optional OFF-ROAD PRO Engineering package enhanced the GL-Class’s capabilities significantly.
- Adjustable Air Suspension (AIRMATIC®): This system could raise the vehicle’s ride height, providing more ground clearance for off-road driving or lowering it for easier entry and exit.
- Low-Range Gearbox: A special transfer case provided a low-range gear option, giving the vehicle more torque at crawling speeds for challenging terrain.
- Locking Center Differential: This allowed for a 50:50 torque split between the front and rear axles, improving traction in slippery conditions.
This package transformed the luxury SUV into a highly capable adventuring machine.
Towing Capacity
When properly equipped, the 2017 GL-Class offered a substantial towing capacity.
| Model | Engine | Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| GL 450 4MATIC | 3.0L Biturbo V6 | 7,500 |
| GL 550 4MATIC | 4.7L Biturbo V8 | 7,500 |
This impressive capacity meant the GL-Class could comfortably tow a decent-sized trailer, boat, or camper, further expanding its utility for active lifestyles.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
Q1: What is the main difference between the GL 450 and the GL 550 in 2017?
The primary difference lies in the engine. The GL 450 features a 3.0-liter biturbo V6, while the GL 550 boasts a more powerful 4.7-liter biturbo V8. This results in higher horsepower and torque figures for the GL 550, offering more spirited acceleration.
Q2: Does the 2017 GL-Class come standard with all-wheel drive?
Yes, all 2017 GL-Class models are equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system as standard. This system provides excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Q3: How many people can the 2017 GL-Class seat?
The 2017 GL-Class is a three-row SUV and can comfortably seat up to seven passengers, including the driver.
Q4: What are some of the most important luxury features found in the 2017 GL-Class?
Key luxury features include premium leather upholstery, real wood trim, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, advanced COMAND® infotainment system with navigation, and a high-quality audio system. Higher trims often add features like massaging seats and rear-seat entertainment.
Q5: Is the 2017 GL-Class good for long road trips?
Absolutely. With its comfortable seating for seven, smooth V6 or V8 engines, advanced safety features, and refined ride quality due to its AIRMATIC® suspension (often standard or optional), the GL-Class is exceptionally well-suited for long-distance travel.
Q6: What kind of fuel economy can I expect from the 2017 GL-Class?
Fuel economy varies by engine. The GL 450 (V6) generally offers slightly better mileage than the GL 550 (V8). For real-world estimates, you can consult the EPA’s FuelEconomy.gov website, which provides ratings for specific model configurations.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Spacious Luxury
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class stands as a testament to what a full-size luxury SUV can and should be. From its potent yet refined engine options and the standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive ensuring confidence in every journey, to the meticulously crafted interior offering unparalleled comfort and cutting-edge technology for up to seven occupants, every aspect of the GL-Class was engineered with the discerning driver and their passengers in mind.
The availability of premium materials like genuine wood and high-quality leather, coupled with advanced features such as the COMAND® infotainment system, adaptive cruise control, and an array of driver assistance systems, creates an environment of effortless sophistication and safety. Whether you’re navigating city streets, embarking on a cross-country adventure, or even venturing off the beaten path with the optional OFF-ROAD PRO package, the 2017 GL-Class delivers an experience that is both commanding and exceptionally comfortable. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t just transport you; it elevates the entire act of travel, solidifying its place as a true icon of luxury and capability in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. Owning a 2017 GL-Class means embracing a tradition of automotive excellence and enjoying the pinnacle of comfortable, versatile, and stylish motoring.
