With this integral safety philosophy Mercedes-Benz comes one step closer to the vision of accident-free driving. It divides automotive safety into four phases:

In the first phase ("Safe driving"), functions such as ESP® optimise safety in the GL. ESP® can help you cope with critical driving situations through targeted braking interventions at individual wheels and by adapting engine torque. The optimised DISTRONIC proximity control system and Intelligent Light System with LED daytime driving lamps (standard with GL 500 4MATIC) are also available as optional extras. These systems help to reduce the risk of accident and improve the driver’s field of vision.

The optional COMAND APS multimedia system control and display system makes the driver's job easier by minimising the distractions from traffic as much as possible.

In the second phase ("In critical situations"), the standard-specification PRE-SAFE® functions take effect. Depending on the driving scenario (registered by the system) and the vehicle equipment, the sliding sunroof and side windows can be closed automatically and the front seat belts pulled taut. If the vehicle is also equipped with the memory package, the front-passenger seat can also be automatically moved into a position better suited to the potential collision.

Comprehensive passive safety systems come into play during the third phase ("During an accident"). In the GL interior, driver and front-passenger airbags help to protect the occupants from injury. Sidebags and windowbags add to this protection (rear sidebags are available as an optional extra). Automatic child-seat recognition is also available as an option (in conjunction with Mercedes-Benz child seats with integrated transponder) for the front-passenger seat.

In the fourth phase ("After an accident"), additional measures can be taken which may make it easier to rescue vehicle occupants.