2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class

It's only four years young, but it's apparently time for the 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL-class to receive a facelift.

While the GL550's wild front fascia remains untouched, both the GL320 and GL450 models receive a few mild tweaks up front. The bumper has been revised to resemble that of the GLK, and sports new LED fog lamps in place of the round projector units previously used.

Other exterior tweaks include new 19- and 20-inch aluminum wheels, a brushed aluminum finish on the beltline trim, and chromed roof rails. The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL450 is also available with an appearance package, which adds the 20-inch rolling stock and stainless steel running boards.

All three models, however, receive some welcome modifications inside. The Mercedes GL receives both a new instrument panel and new seats, which have reportedly been inspired by those in the S-class. A full-leather seating package trims all three rows in sumptuous hides, and also adds ambient lighting like that in the CL- and S-classes.

A redesigned 2010 GL-Class was recently spotted, and it doesn't look like there are too many changes. Only a few minor styling updates highlight the facelift, mainly a new set of headlights with the blinker indicators moved to the outer corners. There are likely to be new taillights and exhaust pipes as well.

The powertrain lineup is likely to remain the same, with available trims being the 320 and 420 CDIs, including the BlueTEC clean-diesel, and the 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL450 and 550. The interior should get a revision but detailed information will most likely be unavailable until the new SUV is released next year.

The 2010 GL-Class will see three individual models hitting the road: the GL350 BlueTEC, the GL450, and the GL550. A new addition to all three models will be the Post-Safe system, which automatically unlocks doors and disables the engine and fuel systems following an accident. New colors include Palladium Silver and Steel Grey. The GL350 BlueTEC will be replacing the GL320 BlueTEC, and will come equipped with new 20-in. 5-twin-spoke wheels and a turbodiesel V-6 engine with 210 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque.

Both the 2010 Mercedes-Benz GL350 BlueTEC and GL450 models will receive new headlights, LED taillights, front grille, front and rear bumpers, trapezoidal tailpipes, chrome skidplates, and dual fog lights or optional LED DRL. Both will receive an enhanced instrument cluster, new seats, ambient interior lighting, standard Burl Walnut trim with leather steering wheel, and an advanced TPMS. The GL450 will also receive new 19-in. 5-spoke wheels.

The topline 2010 Mercedes GL550 will be equipped with new 21-in. 5-spoke wheels, split trapezoidal tailpipes, and standard LED DRL. The interior will also see ambient lighting, along with standard heated and ventilated front seats.