The next-generation Mercedes- Benz GL has surfaced in the form of spy pictures. Clicked by an enthusiast from outside a development center in Southern Germany, the GL prototype caught on cam appears to belong to the wagon/ SUV family.

The front-end design has similarities with the current E-Class and the GL is expected to be built on a stretched version of the next generation ML platform. The car, going by the pictures, is expected to come sporting LED daytime running lights on the bumper; while there will be compact light clusters for the taillights. A wider grill and a more aerodynamic nose would add to the charm.

Merc is likely to stay with the engines that were earlier part of the ML SUV. This could mean that the 3.0 and 4.0 liter diesels as well as the 5.5 liter gasoline/petrol engine coupled to the brand’s 7G-Tronic (7-speed) transmission would remain. Likely to arrive sometime in late 2012, the next-gen GL would be model to look out for. [via WCF]

Carlsson has come up with an engine trim for both the petrol and the diesel GL-Cass models couple with an RS-Kit and Suspension Lowering options. The Mercedes-Benz GL isn’t a very satisfactory model and an engine upgrade can do it a world of good. The trim brings an RS kit that is capable of giving an aerodynamic flow to the GL-Class. There is a new radiator grille and bonnet attachments alongwith electro-polished stainless steel grill inserts on the front lip and front and side skirts which make the car pretty distinguishable. The suspension can be lowered using the Carlsson engineered C-Tronic SUSPENSION which brings down the car 30mm with continuous ride adjustments by interpreting road conditions.

The engine is boosted using a sport air filter and electronic changes. As a consequence the top-line GL500 goes from 388hp to 435hp while raising the torque from 530 to 600Nm. The aerodynamic kit costs 8,499 euros, the suspension is available for available for 1,099 euros and the engine upgrade bears a tagging of 4,189 euros. The diesel upgrade comes cheaper at 1,299 euros as the GL 420CDi can now hit 354hp and the 320CDi can produce 269hp-this one though is costlier at 1,499 Euros.

In most parts of the world, winter has arrived and snow is already present and causing problems. However driving a Mercedes GL-Class could really change it. It looks powerful and to be honest, it is, so before you decide if you’re going to buy one of these muscle cars, we’ve just heard that it’s going to get a minor facelift. Front headlamps will uses LEDs for day driving and full LEDs for the rear lighting, features newly shaped air intakes, new front and rear bumpers, and some interesting exhaust pipes. Doesn’t look like a bad option if you can afford it. Check out the pics below for more details. – via