Mercedes Benz GL-Class 350 2005-2012 - Premium Head Unit Upgrade Kit: Radio Infotainment System with Wired & Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Compatibility
|
241 trusted reviews on
or zip it from $10/week with
$548.00
Save $439.00
Unit price
per
- Complete Kit: Screen, Fascia Kit, Plug & Play-Harness
- Fast Performance: Smooth, high-speed operation
- Vibrant Touchscreen: Crisp, responsive HD display
- Built-in GPS: Offline-capable navigation
- Adaptive Brightness: Auto-adjusts with headlights
- * Plug & Play Installation: No rewiring, retains factory compatibility
- 4G LTE SIM Slot: Mobile internet on the road
- Smart Connections: Bluetooth, WiFi, USB
- Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto: Seamless smartphone pairing
- Voice Control: Siri & Google Voice supported
- Hi-Res Audio: DSP-optimized sound clarity
- Custom Equalizer: Audio tuning control
- RCA Outputs: For subwoofers and amplifiers
- Multimedia Streaming: YouTube, Spotify, Netflix & more
- Mirror Screen: Android & iPhone screen sharing
- Split Screen Mode: Use maps and media side-by-side
- Steering Wheel Buttons: Fully retained
- Hands-Free Calling: Mic & Bluetooth calling
- OTA Updates Ready: Future-proof software support
- 3-Year Warranty: Comprehensive protection included
- 30-Day Returns: Hassle-free return policy
- Live Support 7 Days: 10am–6pm, incl. holidays
- Brummstadt Guarantee: Trusted by thousands of Australian drivers
Guaranteed safe & secure checkout. Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store payment details nor have access to your payment information.
-
After install, I noticed there are some plugs that don't seem to plug in anywhere. Did I get the wrong harness?
No, it is normal to have plugs left over from your old stereo if upgrading to a Brummstadt head unit. The unit comes with its own components and antennas (GPS, 4G, microphone), so some factory plugs are simply not needed anymore. No need to worry. All core functions will work as intended. If anything doesn’t perform as expected, you can always reach out to our customer support by clicking here Chat with Human Support or send an email to service@brummstadt.com.au. -
Why isn't my factory camera working with your unit?
Our cables are made to work with factory cameras, but sometimes they just don't. Some cameras work straight out of the box. Others may need a 12V to 6V step-down module or a different plug. In any case, contact our support team. We will help you find the right solution. -
What if something doesn't work during install?
This is our promise to you. We stand not only for quality in product but also quality in after-sales support. While there may be many alternatives out there, the true value shows when it comes to replacements or product questions. We are here to help until everything works exactly as it should. -
Can I use the reverse camera while driving forward?
Yes, absolutely possible. If you only have the rear camera installed or are using your original factory camera, you can add a rocker switch to activate it while in drive. Just keep in mind that this is not plug and play and does require some basic wiring knowledge. A more convenient option is to use both our front and rear cameras, which are powered directly through the head unit. You can switch between them anytime, view both at once and even watch them while driving. This is especially useful for towing, caravans and off-road use. -
Can I install a front camera and view it anytime, even while driving?
Yes, absolutely. You can view both front and rear anytime, whether parked or driving. For more advanced setups, you can install multiple additional cameras using rocker switches or modified RCA inputs and switch between them freely. This requires high installation skill and is not plug and play, while with our front and rear camera setup it is plug and play. -
Do your units support steering wheel controls?
Yes, absolutely. Steering wheel buttons are supported. Sometimes they work immediately after installation. Sometimes you configure them in the steering wheel app on the head unit. The process is simple: press the icon on the screen, press the button on your steering wheel, and assign the function. You can map any function to any button. For vehicles with more advanced ECUs, we supply CANbus modules. In those cases, you just select your car model inside the CAN app and it will sync automatically. Should anything be unclear or if you need help with setup, feel free to Chat with Human Support or email us at service@brummstadt.com.au.
What our customers are saying
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| OS & Processor | Android 13 – smooth, reliable, and up-to-date with an Octa-Core Cortex-A55 |
| Memory & Storage | Up to 8GB RAM and 128GB SSD – ideal for fast performance and media storage |
| Display | 9″ (1280×720) or 13.3″ IPS QLED – sharp visuals across sizes |
| Audio & DSP | 32-Band Equalizer with built-in DSP – rich audio tuning for custom sound profiles |
| Amplifier & Touch | Toshiba Amplifier with IPS Anti-Glare 5-Touch Display – crystal-clear visuals with responsive controls |
| Connectivity | Supports CarPlay & Android Auto (wired & wireless), Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi, 4G LTE, and GPS – seamless phone integration and live navigation |
| Radio & Inputs | FM radio, AM available via optional DAB+ receiver, RDS, DVR, TPS, CAM (Optional) – wide input support for all setups |
| Extra Features | Steering Wheel Control Support, plus split-screen for multitasking |
| In the Box | Head Unit, Fascia Kit, Harness Bundle, 2x USBs, and Antenna Plugs (FM, GPS, 4G), Antennas (GPS, 4G), SIM-Card-Dongle |
| Apps Supported | Netflix, Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube & more – enjoy your favorites right from the dashboard |
Compatible with the following vehicle models:
- Mercedes-Benz™ GL-Class 350 from 2005-2012
Not sure if it fits? 📸 Send us a snap of your car and we’ll reply fast with what fits.
Please note that even vehicles of the same model may have subtle differences. We are committed to ensuring compatibility and have carefully accounted for each vehicle’s unique specifications. For assistance or inquiries, our expert support team is ready to guide you at every step.This product is not affiliated with or endorsed by Mercedes-Benz™. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used for reference only. Carefully crafted as a premium aftermarket solution, this product ensures seamless compatibility and reliable performance for this model.
Place your order today and expect your parcel to arrive between Friday, 20 June and Friday, 27 June. Remote area deliveries might take just a little longer.
Mercedes-Benz is a name renowned worldwide for sophisticated automotive design, precision engineering, and enduring luxury. Among its impressive lineup, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class holds particular significance as the brand’s confident entry into the full-size luxury SUV segment, well noted for its comfort, capability, and performance. By exploring the journey of the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, particularly the GL 350 between 2005 and 2012, car owners uncover the thoughtful evolution and defining characteristics that solidify this model's position in automotive history.
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Historical Journey:
First Generation X164 (2006–2012):
Originally introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class X164 arrived globally as the manufacturer's first full-size luxury SUV designed explicitly for buyers demanding significant interior space, refined comfort, and robust all-terrain capabilities. Built on a versatile uni-body platform inspired by the smaller M-Class (later known as the GLE-Class), the GL-Class fused luxury and practicality with impressively capable off-road credentials—highlighting Mercedes-Benz's dedication to upscale family motoring combined with genuine on- and off-road versatility.
The GL-Class was especially praised in markets such as North America and Australia, where expansive comfort, seating for seven adults, powerful engines, and reliable AWD systems resonated highly. In Europe and Asia, the GL-Class attracted attention as a prestigious, large family crossover SUV and executive vehicle with significant road presence, generous equipment, and refinement offering true versatility.
Among the popular engine variants, the diesel-powered GL 350 CDI (known as GL 350 BlueTEC, especially recognized in North America) stood out prominently for delivering an exceptional balance of power, fuel efficiency, and satisfying driving dynamics. Its refined and robust turbocharged V6 diesel engine produced significant torque, ensuring authoritative acceleration and impressive towing capabilities, all without sacrificing meaningful miles per gallon. It comfortably satisfied discerning buyers seeking solid daily practicality combined with long-haul travel comfort, becoming a long-standing favorite.
The GL 350 model quickly won over automotive critics and discerning buyers alike with its responsive performance, luxurious interior appointments, and an extensive suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, PRE-SAFE collision prevention measures, and electronic traction management optimized for various terrain conditions. The spacious cabin featured elegant styling, luxury-grade materials, and sophisticated amenities that substantially elevated the experience of families and business users alike. Consequently, the GL-Class firmly established Mercedes-Benz within the full-sized luxury SUV segment, achieving strong appreciation globally throughout its initial X164 generation.
Advancements and Redesign (2012 and Beyond):
Following the original success of the X164 platform, Mercedes-Benz continued its refinement of the GL-Class in subsequent generations, renamed GLS from 2016 onward to align with the brand's refreshed SUV naming convention—GLA, GLC, GLE, and GLS to reflect their position in Mercedes’ SUV hierarchy aligned to the C, E, and S-Class sedans. Later GLS generations continued the legacy of spaciousness, advanced technology, and powerful drivetrains initiated by the original GL-Class, reinforcing Mercedes-Benz’s clear visionary role in defining modern luxury in this category.
Optimizing the GL 350 Experience with Advanced Infotainment:
As fine and thoughtfully engineered as the original GL-Class interior remains, technological progress has significantly advanced automotive infotainment standards today. Designed specifically with this model in mind, forward-thinking aftermarket infotainment solutions, such as those provided by Brummstadt, substantially revitalise in-vehicle functionality and user experience. Compatible with the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class X164 (including the GL 350), a premium head unit delivers naturally integrated support for wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—providing intuitive and high-quality multimedia and navigation connectivity aligned intuitively with contemporary expectations.
The Brummstadt head unit efficiently accommodates versatile navigation options that include apps such as Google Maps, Apple Maps, and WAZE, incorporating live traffic data, accurate turn-by-turn guidance, and seamless cross-device integration. A scenario showcases this advancement—imagine dining at an elegant restaurant with loved ones, casually confirming a friend's location on a phone. As everyone steps into the GL 350 for the drive across the city, the pre-selected route automatically and naturally transitions from the user’s smartphone to the comprehensive infotainment display via wireless connectivity, easing the transition smoothly from leisure time to stress-free navigation.
Further elevating safety and comprehensive driving assistance, optional integration of 1080p high-definition recording cameras offers substantial enhancements, simultaneously providing real-time parking visibility and evidentiary video support for reassurance in any unexpected incident. The Brummstadt head unit introduces additional compelling possibilities also, such as games accessible by connecting secondary controllers through built-in USB ports, allowing rear-seat occupants to engage together in multiplayer entertainment during extended family journeys, transforming otherwise mundane journeys interchangeably into engaging communal experiences.
In addition, smart voice technology augments convenience by intuitively managing multimedia, navigation, and seamless integration with connected devices. Simple voice commands directed at the built-in assistant (“Hey Siri, please adjust the porch lighting!”) extend the vehicle's presence into larger life scenarios, ensuring practical, intuitive, and interactive lifestyle benefits beyond merely the steering wheel—affirming modern vehicles as central hubs of personal connectivity.
The Advantages and Rewarding Driving Experience:
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class combines undeniable pedigree, authoritative road presence, capable performance, and luxurious refinement. The successful marriage of a smooth yet robust V6 diesel powertrain, elevated cabin comfort, innovative safety systems, and reassuring traction management across diverse road conditions leaves an enduring impression. Enhancing thoughtful engineering with contemporary infotainment solutions allows drivers and passengers improved practicality, entertainment possibilities, and convenience, further contributing significantly to rewarding daily interaction and extended journey enjoyment alike.
Thoughtfully selected infotainment and connected technology bring meaningfully expanded enjoyment to both its driver and occupants. Supplementary carefully curated aftermarket enhancements, giving modern multimedia connectivity, capable navigation assistance, and safety-oriented features, harmonize effortlessly into everyday usage, enriching the experiences brought forward by the GL-Class thoughtfully and reliably.
In exploring the distinguished heritage, performance credentials, thoughtful engineering diligence, and continued potential of technological integrations through sophisticated aftermarket infotainment provisions, the Mercedes-Benz GL 350 clearly represents not just capable transportation, but a testament to automotive luxury and ingenuity, affirming its continued relevance and desirability as a remarkable driving and ownership experience.
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Historical Journey:
First Generation X164 (2006–2012):
Originally introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class X164 arrived globally as the manufacturer's first full-size luxury SUV designed explicitly for buyers demanding significant interior space, refined comfort, and robust all-terrain capabilities. Built on a versatile uni-body platform inspired by the smaller M-Class (later known as the GLE-Class), the GL-Class fused luxury and practicality with impressively capable off-road credentials—highlighting Mercedes-Benz's dedication to upscale family motoring combined with genuine on- and off-road versatility.
The GL-Class was especially praised in markets such as North America and Australia, where expansive comfort, seating for seven adults, powerful engines, and reliable AWD systems resonated highly. In Europe and Asia, the GL-Class attracted attention as a prestigious, large family crossover SUV and executive vehicle with significant road presence, generous equipment, and refinement offering true versatility.
Among the popular engine variants, the diesel-powered GL 350 CDI (known as GL 350 BlueTEC, especially recognized in North America) stood out prominently for delivering an exceptional balance of power, fuel efficiency, and satisfying driving dynamics. Its refined and robust turbocharged V6 diesel engine produced significant torque, ensuring authoritative acceleration and impressive towing capabilities, all without sacrificing meaningful miles per gallon. It comfortably satisfied discerning buyers seeking solid daily practicality combined with long-haul travel comfort, becoming a long-standing favorite.
The GL 350 model quickly won over automotive critics and discerning buyers alike with its responsive performance, luxurious interior appointments, and an extensive suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, PRE-SAFE collision prevention measures, and electronic traction management optimized for various terrain conditions. The spacious cabin featured elegant styling, luxury-grade materials, and sophisticated amenities that substantially elevated the experience of families and business users alike. Consequently, the GL-Class firmly established Mercedes-Benz within the full-sized luxury SUV segment, achieving strong appreciation globally throughout its initial X164 generation.
Advancements and Redesign (2012 and Beyond):
Following the original success of the X164 platform, Mercedes-Benz continued its refinement of the GL-Class in subsequent generations, renamed GLS from 2016 onward to align with the brand's refreshed SUV naming convention—GLA, GLC, GLE, and GLS to reflect their position in Mercedes’ SUV hierarchy aligned to the C, E, and S-Class sedans. Later GLS generations continued the legacy of spaciousness, advanced technology, and powerful drivetrains initiated by the original GL-Class, reinforcing Mercedes-Benz’s clear visionary role in defining modern luxury in this category.
Optimizing the GL 350 Experience with Advanced Infotainment:
As fine and thoughtfully engineered as the original GL-Class interior remains, technological progress has significantly advanced automotive infotainment standards today. Designed specifically with this model in mind, forward-thinking aftermarket infotainment solutions, such as those provided by Brummstadt, substantially revitalise in-vehicle functionality and user experience. Compatible with the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class X164 (including the GL 350), a premium head unit delivers naturally integrated support for wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—providing intuitive and high-quality multimedia and navigation connectivity aligned intuitively with contemporary expectations.
The Brummstadt head unit efficiently accommodates versatile navigation options that include apps such as Google Maps, Apple Maps, and WAZE, incorporating live traffic data, accurate turn-by-turn guidance, and seamless cross-device integration. A scenario showcases this advancement—imagine dining at an elegant restaurant with loved ones, casually confirming a friend's location on a phone. As everyone steps into the GL 350 for the drive across the city, the pre-selected route automatically and naturally transitions from the user’s smartphone to the comprehensive infotainment display via wireless connectivity, easing the transition smoothly from leisure time to stress-free navigation.
Further elevating safety and comprehensive driving assistance, optional integration of 1080p high-definition recording cameras offers substantial enhancements, simultaneously providing real-time parking visibility and evidentiary video support for reassurance in any unexpected incident. The Brummstadt head unit introduces additional compelling possibilities also, such as games accessible by connecting secondary controllers through built-in USB ports, allowing rear-seat occupants to engage together in multiplayer entertainment during extended family journeys, transforming otherwise mundane journeys interchangeably into engaging communal experiences.
In addition, smart voice technology augments convenience by intuitively managing multimedia, navigation, and seamless integration with connected devices. Simple voice commands directed at the built-in assistant (“Hey Siri, please adjust the porch lighting!”) extend the vehicle's presence into larger life scenarios, ensuring practical, intuitive, and interactive lifestyle benefits beyond merely the steering wheel—affirming modern vehicles as central hubs of personal connectivity.
The Advantages and Rewarding Driving Experience:
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class combines undeniable pedigree, authoritative road presence, capable performance, and luxurious refinement. The successful marriage of a smooth yet robust V6 diesel powertrain, elevated cabin comfort, innovative safety systems, and reassuring traction management across diverse road conditions leaves an enduring impression. Enhancing thoughtful engineering with contemporary infotainment solutions allows drivers and passengers improved practicality, entertainment possibilities, and convenience, further contributing significantly to rewarding daily interaction and extended journey enjoyment alike.
Thoughtfully selected infotainment and connected technology bring meaningfully expanded enjoyment to both its driver and occupants. Supplementary carefully curated aftermarket enhancements, giving modern multimedia connectivity, capable navigation assistance, and safety-oriented features, harmonize effortlessly into everyday usage, enriching the experiences brought forward by the GL-Class thoughtfully and reliably.
In exploring the distinguished heritage, performance credentials, thoughtful engineering diligence, and continued potential of technological integrations through sophisticated aftermarket infotainment provisions, the Mercedes-Benz GL 350 clearly represents not just capable transportation, but a testament to automotive luxury and ingenuity, affirming its continued relevance and desirability as a remarkable driving and ownership experience.
“A car is not just a tool — it’s an experience waiting to happen.”
– Ken Block, World-renowned rally driver and viral motorsport icon
Discover More
Browse our curated selection of related products tailored to complement your purchase:
Mercedes-Benz is a name renowned worldwide for sophisticated automotive design, precision engineering, and enduring luxury. Among its impressive lineup, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class holds particular significance as the brand’s confident entry into the full-size luxury SUV segment, well noted for its comfort, capability, and performance. By exploring the journey of the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, particularly the GL 350 between 2005 and 2012, car owners uncover the thoughtful evolution and defining characteristics that solidify this model's position in automotive history.
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Historical Journey:
First Generation X164 (2006–2012):
Originally introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class X164 arrived globally as the manufacturer's first full-size luxury SUV designed explicitly for buyers demanding significant interior space, refined comfort, and robust all-terrain capabilities. Built on a versatile uni-body platform inspired by the smaller M-Class (later known as the GLE-Class), the GL-Class fused luxury and practicality with impressively capable off-road credentials—highlighting Mercedes-Benz's dedication to upscale family motoring combined with genuine on- and off-road versatility.
The GL-Class was especially praised in markets such as North America and Australia, where expansive comfort, seating for seven adults, powerful engines, and reliable AWD systems resonated highly. In Europe and Asia, the GL-Class attracted attention as a prestigious, large family crossover SUV and executive vehicle with significant road presence, generous equipment, and refinement offering true versatility.
Among the popular engine variants, the diesel-powered GL 350 CDI (known as GL 350 BlueTEC, especially recognized in North America) stood out prominently for delivering an exceptional balance of power, fuel efficiency, and satisfying driving dynamics. Its refined and robust turbocharged V6 diesel engine produced significant torque, ensuring authoritative acceleration and impressive towing capabilities, all without sacrificing meaningful miles per gallon. It comfortably satisfied discerning buyers seeking solid daily practicality combined with long-haul travel comfort, becoming a long-standing favorite.
The GL 350 model quickly won over automotive critics and discerning buyers alike with its responsive performance, luxurious interior appointments, and an extensive suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, PRE-SAFE collision prevention measures, and electronic traction management optimized for various terrain conditions. The spacious cabin featured elegant styling, luxury-grade materials, and sophisticated amenities that substantially elevated the experience of families and business users alike. Consequently, the GL-Class firmly established Mercedes-Benz within the full-sized luxury SUV segment, achieving strong appreciation globally throughout its initial X164 generation.
Advancements and Redesign (2012 and Beyond):
Following the original success of the X164 platform, Mercedes-Benz continued its refinement of the GL-Class in subsequent generations, renamed GLS from 2016 onward to align with the brand's refreshed SUV naming convention—GLA, GLC, GLE, and GLS to reflect their position in Mercedes’ SUV hierarchy aligned to the C, E, and S-Class sedans. Later GLS generations continued the legacy of spaciousness, advanced technology, and powerful drivetrains initiated by the original GL-Class, reinforcing Mercedes-Benz’s clear visionary role in defining modern luxury in this category.
Optimizing the GL 350 Experience with Advanced Infotainment:
As fine and thoughtfully engineered as the original GL-Class interior remains, technological progress has significantly advanced automotive infotainment standards today. Designed specifically with this model in mind, forward-thinking aftermarket infotainment solutions, such as those provided by Brummstadt, substantially revitalise in-vehicle functionality and user experience. Compatible with the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class X164 (including the GL 350), a premium head unit delivers naturally integrated support for wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—providing intuitive and high-quality multimedia and navigation connectivity aligned intuitively with contemporary expectations.
The Brummstadt head unit efficiently accommodates versatile navigation options that include apps such as Google Maps, Apple Maps, and WAZE, incorporating live traffic data, accurate turn-by-turn guidance, and seamless cross-device integration. A scenario showcases this advancement—imagine dining at an elegant restaurant with loved ones, casually confirming a friend's location on a phone. As everyone steps into the GL 350 for the drive across the city, the pre-selected route automatically and naturally transitions from the user’s smartphone to the comprehensive infotainment display via wireless connectivity, easing the transition smoothly from leisure time to stress-free navigation.
Further elevating safety and comprehensive driving assistance, optional integration of 1080p high-definition recording cameras offers substantial enhancements, simultaneously providing real-time parking visibility and evidentiary video support for reassurance in any unexpected incident. The Brummstadt head unit introduces additional compelling possibilities also, such as games accessible by connecting secondary controllers through built-in USB ports, allowing rear-seat occupants to engage together in multiplayer entertainment during extended family journeys, transforming otherwise mundane journeys interchangeably into engaging communal experiences.
In addition, smart voice technology augments convenience by intuitively managing multimedia, navigation, and seamless integration with connected devices. Simple voice commands directed at the built-in assistant (“Hey Siri, please adjust the porch lighting!”) extend the vehicle's presence into larger life scenarios, ensuring practical, intuitive, and interactive lifestyle benefits beyond merely the steering wheel—affirming modern vehicles as central hubs of personal connectivity.
The Advantages and Rewarding Driving Experience:
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class combines undeniable pedigree, authoritative road presence, capable performance, and luxurious refinement. The successful marriage of a smooth yet robust V6 diesel powertrain, elevated cabin comfort, innovative safety systems, and reassuring traction management across diverse road conditions leaves an enduring impression. Enhancing thoughtful engineering with contemporary infotainment solutions allows drivers and passengers improved practicality, entertainment possibilities, and convenience, further contributing significantly to rewarding daily interaction and extended journey enjoyment alike.
Thoughtfully selected infotainment and connected technology bring meaningfully expanded enjoyment to both its driver and occupants. Supplementary carefully curated aftermarket enhancements, giving modern multimedia connectivity, capable navigation assistance, and safety-oriented features, harmonize effortlessly into everyday usage, enriching the experiences brought forward by the GL-Class thoughtfully and reliably.
In exploring the distinguished heritage, performance credentials, thoughtful engineering diligence, and continued potential of technological integrations through sophisticated aftermarket infotainment provisions, the Mercedes-Benz GL 350 clearly represents not just capable transportation, but a testament to automotive luxury and ingenuity, affirming its continued relevance and desirability as a remarkable driving and ownership experience.
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Historical Journey:
First Generation X164 (2006–2012):
Originally introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class X164 arrived globally as the manufacturer's first full-size luxury SUV designed explicitly for buyers demanding significant interior space, refined comfort, and robust all-terrain capabilities. Built on a versatile uni-body platform inspired by the smaller M-Class (later known as the GLE-Class), the GL-Class fused luxury and practicality with impressively capable off-road credentials—highlighting Mercedes-Benz's dedication to upscale family motoring combined with genuine on- and off-road versatility.
The GL-Class was especially praised in markets such as North America and Australia, where expansive comfort, seating for seven adults, powerful engines, and reliable AWD systems resonated highly. In Europe and Asia, the GL-Class attracted attention as a prestigious, large family crossover SUV and executive vehicle with significant road presence, generous equipment, and refinement offering true versatility.
Among the popular engine variants, the diesel-powered GL 350 CDI (known as GL 350 BlueTEC, especially recognized in North America) stood out prominently for delivering an exceptional balance of power, fuel efficiency, and satisfying driving dynamics. Its refined and robust turbocharged V6 diesel engine produced significant torque, ensuring authoritative acceleration and impressive towing capabilities, all without sacrificing meaningful miles per gallon. It comfortably satisfied discerning buyers seeking solid daily practicality combined with long-haul travel comfort, becoming a long-standing favorite.
The GL 350 model quickly won over automotive critics and discerning buyers alike with its responsive performance, luxurious interior appointments, and an extensive suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, PRE-SAFE collision prevention measures, and electronic traction management optimized for various terrain conditions. The spacious cabin featured elegant styling, luxury-grade materials, and sophisticated amenities that substantially elevated the experience of families and business users alike. Consequently, the GL-Class firmly established Mercedes-Benz within the full-sized luxury SUV segment, achieving strong appreciation globally throughout its initial X164 generation.
Advancements and Redesign (2012 and Beyond):
Following the original success of the X164 platform, Mercedes-Benz continued its refinement of the GL-Class in subsequent generations, renamed GLS from 2016 onward to align with the brand's refreshed SUV naming convention—GLA, GLC, GLE, and GLS to reflect their position in Mercedes’ SUV hierarchy aligned to the C, E, and S-Class sedans. Later GLS generations continued the legacy of spaciousness, advanced technology, and powerful drivetrains initiated by the original GL-Class, reinforcing Mercedes-Benz’s clear visionary role in defining modern luxury in this category.
Optimizing the GL 350 Experience with Advanced Infotainment:
As fine and thoughtfully engineered as the original GL-Class interior remains, technological progress has significantly advanced automotive infotainment standards today. Designed specifically with this model in mind, forward-thinking aftermarket infotainment solutions, such as those provided by Brummstadt, substantially revitalise in-vehicle functionality and user experience. Compatible with the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class X164 (including the GL 350), a premium head unit delivers naturally integrated support for wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—providing intuitive and high-quality multimedia and navigation connectivity aligned intuitively with contemporary expectations.
The Brummstadt head unit efficiently accommodates versatile navigation options that include apps such as Google Maps, Apple Maps, and WAZE, incorporating live traffic data, accurate turn-by-turn guidance, and seamless cross-device integration. A scenario showcases this advancement—imagine dining at an elegant restaurant with loved ones, casually confirming a friend's location on a phone. As everyone steps into the GL 350 for the drive across the city, the pre-selected route automatically and naturally transitions from the user’s smartphone to the comprehensive infotainment display via wireless connectivity, easing the transition smoothly from leisure time to stress-free navigation.
Further elevating safety and comprehensive driving assistance, optional integration of 1080p high-definition recording cameras offers substantial enhancements, simultaneously providing real-time parking visibility and evidentiary video support for reassurance in any unexpected incident. The Brummstadt head unit introduces additional compelling possibilities also, such as games accessible by connecting secondary controllers through built-in USB ports, allowing rear-seat occupants to engage together in multiplayer entertainment during extended family journeys, transforming otherwise mundane journeys interchangeably into engaging communal experiences.
In addition, smart voice technology augments convenience by intuitively managing multimedia, navigation, and seamless integration with connected devices. Simple voice commands directed at the built-in assistant (“Hey Siri, please adjust the porch lighting!”) extend the vehicle's presence into larger life scenarios, ensuring practical, intuitive, and interactive lifestyle benefits beyond merely the steering wheel—affirming modern vehicles as central hubs of personal connectivity.
The Advantages and Rewarding Driving Experience:
The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class combines undeniable pedigree, authoritative road presence, capable performance, and luxurious refinement. The successful marriage of a smooth yet robust V6 diesel powertrain, elevated cabin comfort, innovative safety systems, and reassuring traction management across diverse road conditions leaves an enduring impression. Enhancing thoughtful engineering with contemporary infotainment solutions allows drivers and passengers improved practicality, entertainment possibilities, and convenience, further contributing significantly to rewarding daily interaction and extended journey enjoyment alike.
Thoughtfully selected infotainment and connected technology bring meaningfully expanded enjoyment to both its driver and occupants. Supplementary carefully curated aftermarket enhancements, giving modern multimedia connectivity, capable navigation assistance, and safety-oriented features, harmonize effortlessly into everyday usage, enriching the experiences brought forward by the GL-Class thoughtfully and reliably.
In exploring the distinguished heritage, performance credentials, thoughtful engineering diligence, and continued potential of technological integrations through sophisticated aftermarket infotainment provisions, the Mercedes-Benz GL 350 clearly represents not just capable transportation, but a testament to automotive luxury and ingenuity, affirming its continued relevance and desirability as a remarkable driving and ownership experience.
