The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, often referred to as the Gl Benz 2015, stands as a testament to luxury and versatility in the SUV market. This model year offered a compelling blend of comfort, performance, and advanced technology, making it a sought-after vehicle for families and enthusiasts alike. Understanding the standard equipment and available options for the gl benz 2015 is crucial for anyone considering purchasing or learning more about this distinguished SUV. This article provides a comprehensive overview of what the gl benz 2015 had to offer, ensuring you’re well-informed about its features and specifications.
Comfort and Convenience in the 2015 GL-Class
The gl benz 2015 prioritized passenger comfort and convenience, offering a range of features designed to enhance every journey. Depending on the specific model – GL350 BlueTEC, GL450 4MATIC, GL550 4MATIC, or GL63 AMG – the standard and optional equipment varied, providing customers with choices to tailor their vehicle to their needs.
Sunroof and Roof Options: Enjoying natural light and fresh air was made easy with the inclusion of a power tilt/sliding sunroof as standard across the GL350 BlueTEC, GL450 4MATIC, and GL550 4MATIC models. For an even more expansive view, a panorama roof was available as an option for these models and came standard on the high-performance GL63 AMG, creating an open and airy cabin environment.
Infotainment and Connectivity: The gl benz 2015 offered advanced infotainment systems to keep drivers and passengers connected and entertained. The COMAND® system, the central hub for media and vehicle controls, was standard. For GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC models, a COMAND® system without navigation was standard, while a navigation-equipped version was optional. In contrast, the GL550 4MATIC and GL63 AMG came standard with COMAND® navigation. All models featured a CD/DVD audio/video player and Bluetooth® connectivity for seamless smartphone integration. For enhanced audio experiences, a harman/kardon® LOGIC7® Surround Sound System was available as an upgrade.
Camera Systems: Maneuvering and parking the gl benz 2015 was simplified with advanced camera systems. A rearview camera was standard on the GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC. For a more comprehensive view of the vehicle’s surroundings, a Surround View Camera System was offered as an option for these models and included as standard equipment on the GL550 4MATIC and GL63 AMG.
Seating and Climate Control: The gl benz 2015 provided luxurious seating and climate control features. Heated front seats were standard in the GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC. For enhanced comfort, power heated and ventilated front seats with memory and lumbar support were available optionally for these models and standard on the GL550 4MATIC and GL63 AMG. For personalized climate settings, dual-zone automatic climate control was standard on the GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC, while 3-zone automatic climate control, offering separate rear cabin controls, was available as an option and standard on the GL550 4MATIC and GL63 AMG.
Parking and Access Assistance: Parking in tight spots was made easier with optional PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist, available across the range and standard on the GL550 4MATIC and GL63 AMG. KEYLESS-GO®, providing keyless entry and start, was also an optional convenience feature, becoming standard on the higher trims. Access to the third-row seats was facilitated by manual EASY-ENTRY® on all models, with power EASY-ENTRY available as an optional upgrade for added convenience. A power liftgate for effortless cargo access was standard across all gl benz 2015 models.
Additional Comfort Features: Further enhancing the comfort and practicality of the gl benz 2015 were features like flat-folding second and third-row seats for maximizing cargo space, a 115V AC power outlet for powering devices, and privacy glass for rear passengers. Rain-sensing windshield wipers and a rear window wiper and washer added to driving convenience in various weather conditions. Soft-close doors were available as an option, adding a touch of luxury.
Performance and Handling of the 2015 GL-Class
The gl benz 2015 delivered a range of performance capabilities, tailored to different driving preferences and needs across its model lineup.
Engine Options and Performance Specs: The engine choices for the gl benz 2015 were a key differentiator between models.
- GL350 BlueTEC: Equipped with a 3.0-liter V-6 turbo diesel engine, it delivered 240 horsepower and an impressive 455 lb-ft of torque, prioritizing fuel efficiency and robust low-end power.
- GL450 4MATIC: Featured a 3.0-liter V-6 biturbo engine with direct injection, producing 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.
- GL550 4MATIC: Boasted a powerful 4.7-liter V-8 biturbo engine with direct injection, generating 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, providing enhanced performance and a more exhilarating driving experience.
- GL63 AMG: At the top of the range, the GL63 AMG housed a formidable 5.5-liter V-8 biturbo engine with direct injection, unleashing 550 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque, delivering high-performance SUV capabilities.
All models except the GL63 AMG were equipped with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission, while the GL63 AMG featured the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission, optimized for sportier driving dynamics. 4MATIC® permanent all-wheel drive was standard across the entire gl benz 2015 range, ensuring confident traction and handling in various driving conditions.
Chassis and Handling Features: The gl benz 2015 utilized AIRMATIC® air suspension across all models, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Adaptive Damping System with Sport and Comfort modes was optional for the GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC, and standard on the GL550 4MATIC and GL63 AMG, allowing drivers to adjust the suspension settings to their preferences. Height-adjustable suspension further enhanced the vehicle’s versatility. Independent front and rear suspension contributed to refined handling and ride quality.
Wheels and Tires: The GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC models came standard with 19-inch wheels, with 20-inch wheels available as an option. The GL550 4MATIC and GL63 AMG models featured larger 21-inch wheels as standard. All-season tires were standard on all models except the GL63 AMG, which typically utilized performance tires.
Safety and Security Features of the 2015 GL-Class
Mercedes-Benz prioritized safety in the gl benz 2015, equipping it with a comprehensive suite of safety and security features.
Comprehensive Airbag System and Driver Assistance: The gl benz 2015 featured 7 airbags with 11-way protection, including dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags, driver kneebag, driver/passenger airbags, and window curtain airbags for all three rows. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST and ATTENTION ASSIST® were standard safety systems, helping to prevent accidents and driver fatigue. PRE-SAFE®, a system that prepares the vehicle for an impending collision, was also standard.
Advanced Driver Aids: Optional advanced driver assistance systems were available to further enhance safety. DISTRONIC PLUS® with PRE-SAFE® Brake, an adaptive cruise control system with automatic emergency braking, was optional for GL350 BlueTEC, GL450 4MATIC, and GL550 4MATIC, and standard on the GL63 AMG. Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist were also available as optional features, becoming standard on the GL550 4MATIC and GL63 AMG through packages. Crosswind Stabilization was a standard feature, enhancing stability in windy conditions.
Lighting and Visibility: LED daytime running lights and automatic headlamps with twilight sensor and locator lighting were standard, improving visibility in various conditions. Bi-Xenon headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam Assist were available as an option to optimize nighttime visibility.
Child Safety and Security: Rear door child safety locks, LATCH restraints for rear outboard seats, and top tether anchors for rear seats were standard, ensuring child passenger safety. An anti-theft alarm system was also included as standard security equipment.
Braking and Stability Systems: Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) with ESP® trailer stabilization, ADAPTIVE BRAKE Technology, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), and Brake Assist System (BAS®) were all standard, providing a robust foundation for vehicle control and braking performance.
Paint, Upholstery, and Trim Options for the 2015 GL-Class
Personalization was a key aspect of the gl benz 2015, with a variety of paint, upholstery, and trim options available to tailor the vehicle’s aesthetics.
Paint Options: The gl benz 2015 offered a range of paint choices, including standard non-metallic options like Black and Polar White, and metallic paints such as Cinnabar Red, Obsidian Black, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Palladium Silver, Dakota Brown, Lunar Blue, and Diamond Silver. designo Diamond White metallic paint was also available as a premium option. Metallic paint was standard on GL550 4MATIC and GL63 AMG models for certain colors.
Upholstery Options: Interior upholstery choices included MB-Tex in Black, Almond Beige, and Grey as standard options for GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC. Leather upholstery in Black, Almond Beige, Grey, Almond Beige/Black, Grey/Black, and Auburn Brown/Black was available as an upgrade for these models. For a more luxurious feel, designo Nappa leather options in Porcelain, Auburn Brown, and Black were also offered, with designo leather being standard on the GL63 AMG in select colors.
Trim Options: Interior trim options allowed further customization. Eucalyptus wood trim was standard for GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC. Burl Walnut wood trim was also available and standard on GL550 4MATIC and GL63 AMG. Anthracite Poplar and Open-Pore Brown Ash wood trims were available as optional upgrades. For a high-gloss, modern look, designo Black Piano Lacquer trim was offered as a premium option.
Packages for the 2015 GL-Class
To simplify the selection of popular options, Mercedes-Benz offered several packages for the gl benz 2015.
Premium 1 Package: This package, standard on GL550 4MATIC and GL63 AMG and optional for GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC, included Media Interface, power passenger seat with memory, power driver seat with memory, auto-dimming mirrors, heated/cooled front cup holders, power steering column, power folding mirrors, navigation map updates, COMAND® navigation system, SiriusXM Radio, multi-color ambient lighting, illuminated door sills, and KEYLESS-GO®.
Lighting Package: Standard on GL550 4MATIC and GL63 AMG and optional for GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC, this package included headlamp washer system (GL63 AMG only), Adaptive Highbeam Assist, and Bi-xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination.
Appearance Package: Optional for GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC, this package added chrome exhaust tips (not available on GL350 BlueTEC), 20-inch twin 5-spoke wheels, and illuminated running boards.
ON&OFFROAD Package: Available for GL450 4MATIC and GL550 4MATIC, this package included ON&OFFROAD Package features and front underride protection. For GL450 4MATIC, it also added Adaptive Damping System.
3-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Optional for GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC and standard on GL550 4MATIC and GL63 AMG, this provided 3-zone automatic climate control and rear A/C.
ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM Package: Optional for GL350 BlueTEC, GL450 4MATIC, and GL550 4MATIC, and standard on GL63 AMG, this package enhanced handling and ride comfort with ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM and Adaptive Damping System.
Bang & Olufsen Sound System: A premium audio upgrade, the Bang & Olufsen Sound System was optional across all models.
Lane Tracking Package: Standard on GL550 4MATIC and optional for GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC, this package included Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist.
Parking Assist Package: Standard on GL550 4MATIC and GL63 AMG and optional for GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 4MATIC, this package included PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist and Surround View Camera System.
Driver Assistance Package: Standard on GL63 AMG and optional for GL350 BlueTEC, GL450 4MATIC, and GL550 4MATIC, this comprehensive package included DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist.
Conclusion
The gl benz 2015 offered a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and versatility. With a range of models, each with its own standard features and a plethora of available options and packages, buyers could configure a gl benz 2015 to perfectly suit their individual needs and preferences. Whether prioritizing fuel efficiency, performance, or ultimate luxury, the gl benz 2015 provided a premium SUV experience that remains desirable in the pre-owned market today. Understanding these features and options is essential for anyone interested in the legacy of the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class and the enduring appeal of the gl benz 2015.
