The 4Matic all-wheel-drive performance is adjusted with a rotary dial that chooses electronic settings to maximize engine and driveline performance for driving on or off road, even adjusting the ride height. I kept this expensive beauty on the pavement.

Electronic enhancements help the GL handle like a thoroughbred. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz)

Standard or optional, there are so many active safety and convenience features that you might start to wonder who’s in control, you or the Benz.

Among them:

• Attention Assist, which senses if the driver is starting to nod off or otherwise losing the edge, and sounds an alert and flashes a warning light as a wake-up call;

• Collision Prevention Assist that warns you of a possible crash, even pre-charging the brakes for full effect;

• Active Lane Keeping Assist, part of a $2,800 driver Assistance Package, which makes the steering wheel vibrate if you wander out of your lane, or even steers you back again if necessary.

• Active Blind Spot Assist not only warns you if you’re about to change lanes when another vehicle is already there, it will also correct the GL’s direction to avoid a crash.

• Active Parking Assist, which actually determines whether a parking spot is big enough, then backs in with the driver just applying the throttle or brake, as needed.

The BlueTec turbocharged V6 diesel raises the GL's fuel economy while providing loads of torque. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz)

The 3-liter BlueTec V6 turbodiesel runs so smoothly and unobtrusively that it’s hard to believe it’s a diesel. No rattle, no smell. Although horsepower is just 240, the muscular 455 pound-feet of torque at low rpm provides loads of power. Initial throttle response could be improved, though.

There are three other engines available, all V8s. Two turbocharged 4.6-liter versions make either 362 horsepower in the GL450 or 429 horsepower in the GL550, and the performance-tweaked GL62 AMG is powered by a 5.5-liter V8 that generates 555 horsepower. All are hooked up to seven-speed automatic transmissions.

Obviously, the diesel is the fuel-mileage king of the group. According to the EPA, it gets 18 city and 24 highway, with 20 combined, which is not bad for a boxy SUV the size and heft of the GL.

The GL’s interior was absolutely splendid, Designo seats and all, and had the aura of a luxury hotel room. The tester was outfitted with just about everything available, including power folding middle and rear seats, which fold flat and are both split 50/50. The optional panoramic sunroof was quite nice.

The new sculpted styling is fairly distinctive, though nothing too dramatic. Very classy and sure to make an impression when you roll into the country club.

Yes, the new GL is pricey, especially optioned up. But for those who can afford it, undoubtedly worth it.

Details

Vehicle type: Seven-passenger, four-door crossover SUV, all-wheel drive.
Engine: 3-liter turbocharged V6 diesel, 240 horsepower at 3,600 rpm, 455 pound-feet of torque at 1,600 rpm.
Transmission: Seven-speed automatic.
Wheelbase: 121.1 inches.
Overall length: 201.6 inches.
Curb weight: 5,467 pounds.
Towing capacity: 7,500 pounds.
EPA mileage rating: 18 city, 24 highway, 20 combined.

Bob Golfen, Automotive Editor for SPEED.com, is a veteran auto writer based in Phoenix, Arizona, with a passion for collector cars, car culture and the automotive lifestyle. SPEED.com fans can email Bob Golfen at