Already crowned the Best New SUV (over $60,000) in Canada by AJAC (Automobile Journalists Association of Canada), the Mercedes-Benz GL can now be purchased with fuel-efficient and clean-running diesel engine. Called the GL320 CDI this version also has a significantly lower price than the already released GL 450.

Choosing the GL320 CDI, with its smaller 3.0-litre diesel engine, shaves about $7,000 off the asking price; it’s far more economical to operate and its lower CO2 output is kinder to the planet. Although it can’t match the gas engine’s horsepower numbers, the torque figures are very close, so it’s about the same in terms of pulling power.
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In case you were wondering, the GL shares nothing with the military-bred G-Class or Gelandewagen (now entering its 27th year of production). Built on an entirely new unit-body platform, the GL is produced in the same Alabama plant that churns out its M-Class and R-Class siblings.

Many of the GL’s styling cues resemble the newest generation M-Class (ML), but it’s a bolder, stronger design adaptation. The GL’s two-box SUV blueprint is more cube-like than an ML or an R-Class and that’s not to say it’s unattractive, but it’s in a more muscular “manly” manner. Extra-wide rear doors make entry and exits easier. They also need more swing-out space, which can be a problem in a tight parking stall.

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Just like the V8 gas engine the 3.0-litre diesel is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission with manual shift switches on the steering wheel and a full-time 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. Power is distributed to all four wheels equally on dry paved roads and it automatically recalibrates the anti-lock brake system to provide better stops on unpaved off-road surfaces.

Similar in function to Land Rover’s ‘Hill Decent’ system but called DSR by Mercedes, the GL has a downhill crawl speed feature. And it also comes with Hill-Start Assist, which keeps it from rolling backward, after being stopped on uphill slope.

I would still recommend the optional off-road package if you want to take a GL any distance off the beaten path. It includes an undercarriage protective package that could save you from punching a hole through the oil pan on a rock. Special wheels and tires, a two-speed transfer case, locking centre and rear differentials and additional ground clearance (height-adjustment) are also included.

The height-adjustable Airmatic suspension is a very cool feature of the GL. Compressed air bladders, which replace conventional springs, can vary the ride height. The driver can select from comfort to more aggressive settings and the system automatically lowers at highway speeds.

For some strange reason the GL’s side mirrors are small (for an SUV), although the mirror surround is quite large. It may be something to do with a handy auto-fold feature when you lock the doors.

Big and aggressive, and with seating for seven, the Mercedes-Benz GL is the missing link between mild-mannered ML and the military-chic G-Class. And the new V6 diesel is a smart engine choice.

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M

I must admit that i really warmed up to GL's design. But not in this color. Black with nice 5 spoke AMG rims, that'd be my choice...