One more NAIAS preview today. Mercedes will take the wraps off its Vision GL420 concept at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show. This particular GL has a more macho grille, flared fenders, 21-inch rims and a big enough fuel tank to give this Bluetec diesel a whopping 1,000 km range. That's 621 miles, folks. Might not sound too impressive until you remember that this huge SUVan packs 290 hp and 516 ft-lbs of torque to move its 7 passengers with style and speed.
So as concept vehicles go, this one might underwhelm a bit until you realize Mercedes might bring this new bodylifted GL over when the Blutec finally hits these shores. So this might in fact be the mildly revised (for the better, we think) GL production vehicle we are looking at. Although it looks a bit like a Mercedes grilled Highlander, the GL-Class is a pretty competent SUV that has garnered its fair share of praise and the Bluetec technology (despite missing out on 50-state approval) promises to make diesels even more attractive in the States.
[Source: MotorAuthority]
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
J Finz @ Jan 3rd 2007 3:28PM
[ricer] only 290hp? That must be a horrible hp/L ratio, I could get that out of my vtec easy [/ricer]
For all that low end power and pretty good mpg (especially for an suv), diesels kick @$$. Hopefully we'll get more in the us soon after they pass all the emmissions tests.
Tommy @ Jan 3rd 2007 3:53PM
#1 - it's the massive torque of the diesel car that counts
cars @ Jan 3rd 2007 5:00PM
J Finz, 290 hp are more than enought.
http://www.auto-power-girl.com/
D Man @ Jan 3rd 2007 5:19PM
I thought everyone was getting out of the minivan business?
Tool @ Jan 3rd 2007 5:59PM
I love the new GL. It is on my list. Would love to have the 4.2 Blutec.
This new look with the revised grille and flared fenders is a real winner. If MB comes out with that I will buy one for sure.
J Finz @ Jan 3rd 2007 6:17PM
#2 and 3 i was being sarcastic, didn't u read the second part?
Robert O @ Jan 3rd 2007 6:25PM
What a gluttonous, irresponsible vehicle!
Edsel @ Jan 3rd 2007 8:32PM
"D Man" nailed it (#4). The GL420 is the spit'n image of Chryslers "new" mini-van with hinged rear doors instead of sliders.
Corey @ Jan 3rd 2007 11:34PM
2+ ton diesel luxury vehicle?
Makes about as much sense as going to McDonald's to super-size your meal and having Diet Coke.
Guenther @ Jan 4th 2007 10:02AM
Corey- Makes perfect sense if you like fries, you're thirsty, and just cannot stomach 48oz of sugarpop.
So why must you begrudge such transportation to those who want something spacious and multi-capable, while not being any thirstyer than a taurus. I do NOT like the styling on the concept vehicle.
Bob @ Jan 4th 2007 10:25AM
I'm happy. It looks just like my Dodge Caliber. Now I can drive around like a big shot.
Mike @ Jan 15th 2007 10:39PM
Hey J Finz, Yes, the GL420 has only 290hp; however, it has 516lbs torque that will more than make up for what you deem "Horrible".
Solon @ Jan 15th 2007 11:29PM
I own a ML320 and I absolutely love it because of transmission and the position of the shifter ,please , fire the idiot who moved the shifter on the steering wheel in the GL450 .I'm not buying a new one until the shifter is placed back in the floor.
Tal D @ Jan 16th 2007 9:21AM
Hats off to Mercedes!
I think of Mercedes automobiles when a diesel powered automobile is mentioned. In this catagory I believe they are at the head of the pack.
I only read of possibilities of more diesel powered cars to be offered for sale in the U.S.
Hopefully this Bluetec technology will encourage other manufactuers to place diesel engines under the hoods of their cars by developing their own versions that are clean burning,efficient,powerful,durable and reliable.
Even though it is mainly a petroleum based fuel burner
I believe Mr. Diesel developed his original version to burn other sources of fuel. Diesel engines have a long term track record. Has the hybrid technology been with us to project its long term reliability?
Just wish the $$ were lower. Can you have cake and be able to eat it too? Someone will put the package together within a price range of 30K; instead of mid 50s