Facelift for Merc GL, but BlueTEC uncertain

Mercedes-Benz plans to introduce a facelifted GL model range to the local market from early October -- but the facelifted model will be no more than that. There'll be no super-clean models introduced here with the upgraded variants.

All we'll see here is the minor cosmetic upgrade and a name change for the GL 320 CDI (now to be known as the GL 350 CDI). In Europe, the GL 350 CDI BlueTEC and the SCR-equipped GL 350 BlueEFFICIENCY models are being introduced with the 2010 facelift, but there are no plans in place yet for the launch of these variants in Australia. SCR is an ammonia-based exhaust gas treatment technology that mixes ammonia with nitrous oxides in the exhaust fumes to create the inert gas nitrogen and water.

The Carsales Network asked Peter Fadeyev, Manager for Corporate Communications at Mercedes-Benz Australia, when we might expect the cleaner-running variants.

"They were originally intended for the SUV-intense US market," he said. "Roll-out to other markets hasn't been forecast as yet, but they've now made it into Europe. As for Australia, we genuinely don't know."

Asked whether SCR was a hindrance to the greener models being sold in Australia, Fadeyev answered in the negative.

"No, in fact we pioneered it. All of our Mercedes-Benz trucks have it. In fact, they were the first to have it. We've had it for some time now. It's designed to reduce the nitrous-oxide emissions -- and the reason for [its] advent in the trucks was to meet the ADR81/02 emissions laws that came into effect last year or the year before.

"As for rolling it out into our [passenger] vehicles [and SUVs], there's no particular technical reason. It's simply down to business modelling. We hope to have it as soon as possible, but we don't have a timeframe from Germany just yet."

As it stands then, the GL for 2010 will continue with the same model hierarchy and basic specification. Trainspotters will identify the upgrade model by redesigned bumpers; added chrome underbody protection front and rear; a restyled radiator grille; fog lights/day running lights connected by a chrome bar; new alloy wheels in sizes ranging from 18 to 21 inches; plus revised chrome exhaust pipe tips. Two new metallic colours are also introduced: Tenorite Grey and Palladium Silver.

Inside, the GL's seats are revised, as are the instruments and multi-function steering wheel. Ambient lighting, as first seen in the S-Class, will also become a feature of the GL's interior. The range of optional equipment is improved with the addition of two-tone leather trim packages (black/cashmere beige and black/alpaca grey) and a new decorative trim, anthracite-coloured poplar.

In foreign markets, the upgraded GL will be sold with a swing-out tow-bar that's concealed when not in use, but this feature doesn't comply with Australian Design Rules, so the GL sold here won't offer it, although Benz in Australia will offer an ADR-acceptable alternative.

As already noted, the GL 320 CDI will be renamed GL 350 CDI, but the vehicle continues to be powered by the same 3.0-litre diesel V6, developing the same power and torque figures: 165kW and 510Nm.

MB is yet to advise whether there'll be price adjustments for the new GL when it arrives.

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