2012 Mercedes-Benz GL350 BlueTec Review and Test Drive
SAFETY FEATURES IN THE MERCEDES-BENZ GL350
The GL350 BlueTec is available with Blind Spot Assist, which uses cameras to 
monitor blind spots behind the vehicle. If a driver activates the turn signal while a vehicle is in the blind spot, he will get visual and audible warnings.
Mercedes-Benz’ Neck-Pro active front head restraints (I think it’s frowned upon to call them headrests nowadays) will move forward almost two inches and up one inch in the event of a severe collision in order to support the head and reduce the likelihood of whiplash occurring. Pre-Safe will take multiple measures to protect occupants in the event it senses an impending collision. These include tightening the seat belts, moving the front passenger seat to a more protected position, closing the side windows and, in the even of a rollover possibility, closing the sunroof.
BOTTOM LINE
It’s surprising that there are only two seven-passenger diesel SUVs available in the U.S., but diesel is clearly a smart choice here. Not only is there no price premium for a diesel in the GL-Class lineup but the diesel is actually $1,000 cheaper than the entry-level gasoline-powered GL.
In addition, the GL350 BlueTec is comfortable, handles well for a vehicle of its size, and has gobs of torque. If that’s not enough to go diesel, then I’m not really sure what is.
MERCEDES-BENZ GL350 BLUETEC: THE DETAILS
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL350 BlueTec 4Matic | |
| Base Price, Price as Tested | $61,570/$73,210 |
| Drivetrain | Front engine, all-wheel drive |
| Engine | 3.0 l/turbocharged V-6 |
| HP/Torque (pound-feet) | 210/400 |
| Transmission | 7-speed automatic |
| Curb weight (lbs) | 5,512 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 113.2 |
| Length x width x height (inches) | 191.7 x 75.9 x 57.9 |
| 0-60 mph (seconds) | 9.3 |
| Fuel economy (mpg) | 18/24 |
