Equipped with its standard - specification Off-Road Pro Engineering package the GL-Class Grand Edition can always find a way even when there is none: take, for instance, the Hill-Start Assist, which helps you to make progress on an incline, or the off-road ABS, which reduces braking distance on downhill gradients, particularly when driving on loose surfaces. It manages to do this because it is fitted with six piece underbody panelling made of strong plastic, and this offers good protection when driving in off-road terrain. Together with the reinforced front underguard made of steel, the underbody panelling ensures that the off-roader remains robust when the going gets tough.
The modified AIRMATIC facilitates ground clearance of 307 mm in the highest off-road mode, as well as a fording depth of 600 mm, even making light work of stream crossings and rocky stretches. The GL-Class Grand Edition mainly has its front double-wishbone suspension and its four-link rear suspension to thank for its special off-road capability.
The isolated design of the subframes prevents and jolts from being transferred via the vehicle’s body. The upshot is that rough terrain will be virtually imperceptible to you and your passengers, who can be sure of a comfortable ride. Also playing a major role in the special driving experience the GL-Class Grand Edition has to offer are the 4ETS and the two-speed, low-range transfer case, which not only ensure that the necessary grip is there when you need it in difficult conditions – they also increase those all important safety levels.