The ECO start/stop function reduces fuel consumption and emissions by automatically switching off the engine when the vehicle is at a standstill (for example when in a traffic jam or at traffic lights).

It can be deactivated manually by a switch and is automatically suspended under certain conditions, for example, when the interior temperature goes below the temperature set (linked to the climate control system).

Significant savings can also come from a series of small contributions. With the aim of making the new GL more fuel efficient, the Mercedes-Benz engineers examined all the main components with regard to their energy usage and found ways of getting them to work more economically.

The rolling resistance of the tyres has a big influence on a vehicle's consumption. For this reason, Mercedes-Benz deploys tyres with low rolling resistance in the new GL as well. They are formed in a different way and use a different rubber blend than conventional tyres. With unchanged handling and braking characteristics, the rolling resistance can be markedly reduced with them.

BlueTEC is the name given to the technology developed by Mercedes-Benz for effective cleaning and aftertreatment of exhaust gases from diesel drive systems.

The modular system produces exemplary values for all the exhaust gas constituents and also impresses for the sustained reduction achieved in nitrogen oxide emissions. The BlueTEC catalytic converter technology uses the reactive material AdBlue® to treat the exhaust gases. Nitrogen oxide emissions can be cut by up to 90 percent as a result.