Mercedes-Benz GL-Class modded by Carlsson

The Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, staid and boring in stock form, doesn’t exactly look any better after extensive modifications. The new RS-Kit by Carlsson attempts to give the GL a “sporty” look, but ends up looking more like a thug.

The front spoiler lip “lowers the GL visually closer to the road,” thereby diminishing its offroad capabilities. The kit adds a large radiator grille, two bonnet “attachments,” and various grille inserts made of electro-polished stainless steel. Add-ons also include headlight inserts, additional headlights, low-mounted LED daytime running lights, side ledges, and a new rear skirt attachment to surround the two oval stainless-steel pipes of the sport muffler. The entire GL body kit costs the equivalent of Dhs 44,000.

An additional CK50 performance kit has been developed for the GL 500. Using an optimised ECU and a sport air filter increases the power from 388 hp to 435 hp. Maximum torque rises from 530 Nm to 600 Nm. The performance kit can ordered with the RS-Design Kit for the equivalent of Dhs 16,500.

A computerised C-Tronic air suspension lowering module is also available. This system lowers the GL by up to 30 mm, and also recognises road characteristics to continually adjust spring travel. The module is available for models with AIRMATIC suspension for the equivalent of Dhs 5,600. Even more expensive are the 22-inch “Evo Brilliant Edition” alloy wheels with Dunlop high-performance 295/35 tyres for Dhs 21,600.

Carlsson kits may be available through special order via various aftermarket dealers in the UAE and GCC.