Safety & Security
Mercedes-Benz has blazed new trails in safety engineering for more than half a century - from the 1951 patent for the crumple zone to emergency-sensing Brake Assist in the 1990s. And since these safety firsts have since become industry standards, it's no surprise that the GL-Class continues to foretell what other SUVs might someday do. Beyond its 13-way air bag protection, it's the only full-size SUV with PRE-SAFE,® an innovation that can detect and prepare for a collision before it happens. The GL-Class doesn't just look into the future. It looks out for yours.
PRE-SAFE. During certain vehicle maneuvers, the industry-exclusive PRE-SAFE system can detect instability suggesting that a collision or rollover is imminent. PRE-SAFE can then tighten the front seat belts, close the windows and sunroof, and - on models equipped with the optional front-seat memory - adjust the front head restraints and passenger seat, all in an effort to better prepare the occupants.
Nine standard air bags. Within the high-strength steel-reinforced uni-body structure of the GL-Class, nine air bags offer a total of 13 ways of protection. In addition to four side-impact air bags, side curtain air bags are provided for all three seating rows. A driver's knee air bag augments the dual-stage front air bags.
Post-collision response. If an air bag or seat-belt ETD deploys, the standard Mercedes-Benz mbrace™ system can initiate a call to our 24-hour emergency response center - even if you can't. In addition, the POST-SAFE system automatically shuts off the engine and fuel supply, turns on some cabin lights and the hazard flashers, and unlocks the doors to assist rescuers.
Accident avoidance. Two systems first introduced by Mercedes-Benz help you avoid potential collisions. ESP,® our Electronic Stability Program, monitors the vehicle's response to your steering and braking, and responds to help keep it on course during evasive maneuvers. Brake Assist can apply full braking pressure if it detects an emergency braking situation by the speed at which you step on the brake pedal - potentially shortening your stopping distance.
Blind Spot Assist. When traveling at speeds above 20 mph, this new GL-Class option (standard on the GL550) can alert its driver to some unseen vehicles in the next lane. When sensors in the rear bumper detect a vehicle to either side, an indicator illuminates in the appropriate side mirror. Then, should you prepare for a lane change by activating your turn signal, an audible warning will sound.