Redesigned 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Rolls Out to Dealers

TIVERTON, R.I. (10/01/2012)(readMedia)-- Even at the end of its six-year cycle, the first-generation Mercedes-Benz GL-Class was the most popular large luxury SUV on the market, but that hasn't stopped the automaker from significantly upgrading the new model. In September, the all-new 2013 GL-Class rolled out to dealerships, complete with a revised exterior, improved performance and fuel efficiency, and more innovative technology.

While the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class retains the popular proportions of the outgoing model, it features bolder styling thanks to tighter lines on the SUV's flanks, new LED daytime running lights and chrome accents throughout the exterior. Under the hood, three new engines each boost horsepower and torque numbers compared to their predecessors, yet fuel economy has improved by one to three miles per gallon depending on the model. Luxury buyers can now choose between a 240-horsepower BlueTEC clean-diesel V6 engine and two biturbo V8s, with one unit producing 362 horsepower and the other churning out 429 horsepower.

"The aggressive looks of the new GL-Class will certainly help attract more buyers, but the changes were really more about taking the things that drivers already love about the SUV and building on them," said Will Dame, general manager of Viti, Inc., a Rhode Island Mercedes-Benz dealer. "The ride is even more powerful and responsive despite improving efficiency, and a host of technologies will maintain the GL-Class' reputation as the most convenient and safe large luxury SUV out there."

For larger families, the 2013 GL-Class has simplified access to the third row with a new available power EASY-ENTRY system, which quickly folds down the 60/40-split second-row seats to let children through to the back. With an abundance of safety technologies, parents can also feel more confident that their most precious cargo will be protected, whether it is because of the rear-view camera, an ATTENTION ASSIST driver-drowsiness monitoring system or an available Lane Tracking Package featuring Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist.

Though buyers are just getting acquainted with the 2013 GL-Class, another new Mercedes-Benz SUV, the more compact, refreshed 2013 GLK-Class, has been at dealerships since earlier in the summer. In addition to a sleeker front fascia, the 2013 GLK350 received an updated 3.5-liter V6 engine outputting 302 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, increases of 34 horsepower and 15 pound-feet of torque compared to the previous powerplant.

Early next year, the new GLK-Class will welcome a diesel model with the arrival of the 2013 GLK250 BlueTEC. Featuring a 2.1-liter four-cylinder clean-diesel engine, the GLK250 BlueTEC will have 190 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque on tap, while fuel economy is expected to improve significantly compared to the GLK350.

"Buyers of the GL-Class have been taking advantage of BlueTEC diesel engines for a while now, and soon, fans of the GLK-Class will be able to leverage that great mix of efficiency and capability," Dame noted. "As Mercedes-Benz continues to revamp its SUV lineup, it's reassuring that the brand refuses to compromise its signature performance, even as it improves fuel economy."

About Viti, Inc.:

Winner of a 2011 Mercedes-Benz Best of the Best Dealer Recognition Award, Viti, Inc. has served Rhode Island Mercedes-Benz owners for more than 36 years, specializing in new and used Mercedes- Benz sales, service and parts. Whether you're looking for a new Mercedes-Benz C-Class or a pre-owned GLK-Class SUV, Viti's friendly and knowledgeable sales staff will ensure that you get the right vehicle without the hassle. Plus, with 150 loaner cars and 50 drivers at their disposal, Viti offers all of their customers free pick-up, delivery and loaners during servicing. Check out their full inventory online at www.viti.com, visit them in person at 975 Fish Road in Tiverton, or contact them by phone at 888-289-8484. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/VitiMercedesBenz.