New Mercedes GL unveiled

Mercedes has unveiled the new GL-Class SUV at the 2012 New York Motor Show.

Up front, the new GL features a re-designed grille, LED daytime running lights and chrome trim. The rear also gets new tail-lights and a larger bumper.

As a result, the new GL is slightly longer and wider even though it sits on the old car’s permanent four-wheel drive 4 MATIC platform. All models are fitted with a seven-speed automatic transmission.

Mild tweaks to the interior have retained the old model's seven-seat layout and maximum load area of 2,300 litres.

Two models will be offered - a 3.0-litre diesel GL 350 that returns 38mpg and a 4.7-litre twin-turbo petrol that produces 408bhp, called the GL 500. Fuel consumption for both models has been improved by around 20 per cent.

Official prices are yet to be confirmed but expect prices to start around £60,000, when it goes on sale in the UK in early 2013.

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