A.R.T. Tuning for Mercedes GL

A.R.T. X64 program for Mercedes GL

By Brian
August 30, 2007 8:23 am
Filed Under: German, Mercedes-Benz, Tuners

Back in March we posted this topic with poor quality photos and a press release which was difficult to understand. So to make up for the makeshift work, here is a cleaner interpretation and slightly better photos.

A.R.T Tuning has put together a modest tuning program for the GL-Class. The front end receives a sporty front bumper fascia with large air openings as well as a triple beam fog lamp assembly in either xenon/halogen configurations. Also available are the Xenon headlamps with a black inner housing. Around to the side of the vehicle are side steps with integrated blue electroluminescent light strips which project over the side step when entering the vehicle. In the rear, a new bumper fascia is sculpted to fit the four 80mm exhaust tips as well as a removable center section to accommodate a trailer hitch.

A.R.T. has developed their own suspension control module which taps into the AIRMATIC system and lowers the vehicle 35mm. However, each corner can be adjusted individually down to 75mm. The only disadvantage of the system is that speed dependent ride height control is deactivated.

Although A.R.T. gives no details, they state the power and torque upgrade for the two CDI engines increases by 20%. That gives the GL 320 CDI and GL 420 CDI and extra 45 hp (to 269 hp) and 61 hp (to 367 hp) respectively while torque increases 102 Nm (to 612 Nm) and 140 Nm (to 840 Nm).

22-inch wheels and numerous interior customizations which include a 12-inch ceiling monitor which folds down and can be rotated 360 degrees, independent DVD player with SD card reader, infrared headphones and Alcantara/suede surfaces are also available.

Source: A.R.T Tuning

Press Release (Click to expand)

Fast, luxurious giant

complete enhancement with Program X64
dynamic look with A.R.T. front and rear skirts
power enhancement, e.g. for GL 320 and 420 CDI / Sport exhaust system
wheels "monoART1“ in 18, 19, 20 and 22-inch
numerous accessories for interior and exterior

The new Mercedes Benz GL-class is of the most spectacular vehicles ever. To provide the already powerful appearance even more sportiness, A.R.T. tailored an individualized distinct look. In addition, the Nuremberg-based manufacturer offers the SUV an even more extensive selection on further luxurious enhancement components for interior and exterior. The enhancement program for the GL answers to the name Program X64 turning the “King of Terrain“ into “King of the Road“

Fast and Elegant

A.R.T. gives the GL a further enhancement with addition of a front bumper spoiler, creating an even more dynamic appearance. Aerodynamics hasn’t been forgotten either. The A.R.T. front isn’t nearly as boxy as the original and slices through wind, yet blends in perfectly to the original vehicle’s silhouette. The A.R.T. front bumper spoiler is for vehicles with or without park distance control (PDC) and is mounted to the original fastening spots. Ditto, matching to front, A.R.T. offers naturally a suitable counterpA.R.T. to the back. The A.R.T. rear bumper skirt with diffusor look is also suitable for vehicles with a trailer hitch, as the middle piece is removable, thereby the GL pure value is not lost. A moulded recess left and right make the use of a A.R.T. sports exhaust system possible.

More power and better handling

To provide a racier appearance, A.R.T. offers the GL with a variety of performance improvements. The GL 320 CDI and the GL 420 CDI as an example, receive power and torque boost for the diesel motor providing an approximate increase of 20 percent for each. The TÜV- certification offered upgrades do not negatively influence exhaust emission tax classification.

More ensured sound and a grain more power is promised through a highly valuable A.R.T. exhaust system with one right and one left muffler. These publicize a shared sportier sound stage through four hard chromed plated 80 mm thick tailpipes.

For the Mercedes Airmatic, A.R.T. has its own electronical suspension system. The A.R.T. suspension module provides a lowering for the vehicle up to 35 mm. It’s individually adjustable up to 70 mm and lowers the center point of gravity of this tall, built SUV. As a consequence, optimum agility and distinctively better handling result. All other built-in chassis control functions remain the same. Speed-dependant ride-height control may be reduced.

Wheels up to 22 inches

For the wheel concept, A.R.T. offers its own design concept “monoART1“. The Nuremberg-based specialists provide the 10-spoked light alloy rims in sizes 18, 19, 20 or 22 inches. A.R.T. presents it’s customers the possibility of multiple finishes. They may choose from two variations of TITANIUM special coating. A.R.T. offers highly polished spoke backs or complete allover silky-matt surface. For black vehicles, black is best. A.R.T. impliments individual customized color preferences, a two-tone finishes or a high tech Nano coating. With 22 inches, the wheel “monoART1“ steals center stage. A.R.T. equips tires in dimensions of 305/35R22-110XL .

A.R.T. Lightshow

In combination to the aerodynamic portion in front, A.R.T. offers a triple beam headlight set with Xenon high beams, lights for day driving in LED technology and a double function unit for lighting around corners and fog lights. Next to the distinct individualized look, additional light is added for day and night driving ensuring more safety. New to the program is black background A.R.T. “Bi-Xenon-NERO” headlight equipment, naturally matching perfectly to black finished vehicles, and leaving a powerful impression that only intensifies this big vehicle image.

An absolute show stopper, yet very practical effect as well is scored by A.R.T. with STEPLIGHTS that mark opened vehicle doors outlining sideskirt contours on their top sides allowing getting into the vehicle easier under poor visability conditions. The STEPLIGHTS are made of light blue electroluminescent light stripes in highly polished stainless steel. In the vehicle entry area are additional light blue illuminated entry ledges with A.R.T.-logo of highly polished and brushed stainless steel; an additional highlight.

Luxurious Interior

With alcantara ultra-suede/leather décor A.R.T. creates an elegant interior for the GL. Front and back seat headrests are customized to color preferences with newly tailored contrast stitching. For a homogeneous look, side lining in ruffled Alcantara ultra-suede is provided. The luxurious ambience can be complemented with A.R.T. featured ergonomic shaped steering wheel complete with perforated grip area. With this, the GL driver has everything under control. The flounces are available in a fine combination of leather/noble wood, leather/leather, leather/alcantara or leather/carbon fiber. Each feature is customized to individual preferences elaborately hand-made from masters of their craft. There are no limits of individualization.

Those long drives seem shortener for passengers seated in back with A.R.T. top-class High Tech multimedia equipment. A ceiling monitor in size 12,1 inch can be rotated, pivoting 360 degrees. The integrated DVD player with SD-card reader works independantly from a command system, set to autarchic tech. Two portable infrared headphones offer sound enjoyment plus comfort and complete freedom of movement.

The A.R.T. team certainly doesn’t feel limited to being committed to just above described features program. For those prefering an individualized GL appearance, the A.R.T. team impliments requests with complete competence as well.

Further information: www.art-tuning.de.

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