Despite the rising importance of green issues in the auto industry, carmakers continue the development of full-size SUVs / 4x4s such as the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. Our scoop photographers snagged some of the very first pictures of the next generation Mercedes SUV while undergoing testing in Germany.
Although details are scarce, we do know that the new GL will make use of a stretched version of the next ML's platform, which is also shared with the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the upcoming Dodge Durango. The same goes for the powertrains options that will mirror those of the new ML and include V6 and V8 engine options.
Sources suggest that a next-generation hybrid powertrain with plug-in capability may also be available from launch.
The SUV's lines are heavily disguised in these early test photos, but like its ML sibling, the new GL is expected to feature a boxier shape with more hard angles and new details.
The next generation of the GL-Class is due to arrive in the market in 2012.
