( Worldcarfans ) - Since its debut at the Detroit Motor show in 2006, the Mercedes GL-Class full size SUV has been on the market for over 1 year, and already first photos of what appear to be a soft facelift have surfaced.
Despite being a soft facelift with the only visible design changes concentrated to the front bumper/grille assembly, its a dramatic one, which transforms the overall front appearance from neutral to aggressive.
Most obviously, the center lower bumper grille is turned upside down from a mild smile to a angry frown giving a sinister look. Also, the lower aluminum bash guard (which is absent in these photos) will sit just underneath the license plate in a more prominently position than before which gives a more rugged look. The two chrome mouldings/emblem of the outer grille appear unchanged, however, the honeycomb mesh grille underneath shows a smaller/closer mesh pattern.
The only detail missing from these photos are the fog lamps which are still covered with tape. No changes to the rear lamps or bumper. Look for debut in 2009.
