The new Mercedes-Benz GL

The first encounter.

It is early one morning as the sun eases its way through the clouds over the Italian Alps, the temperature still only just above freezing. By contrast, mountain biking legend Hans Rey has warm words for the new Mercedes-Benz GL when he encounters it for the first time.

"There are really great, innovative details in the GL like the rear seats which fold flat at the touch of a button and seats and cup holders with in-built cooling and heating that any outdoor enthusiast would appreciate."

The multiple Trials world champion and member of the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame can hardly wait to start the spacious seven-seater vehicle and enjoy what looks like a promising day. Time to load the bike and get moving!

As soon as they get underway, the GL is able to demonstrate its credentials as a true off-roader. Thanks to 4MATIC all-wheel drive as standard with Start-off Assist and Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR), together with the optional ON&OFFROAD package, this S-Class of SUVs effortlessly handles steep gradients on rough terrain. Like Hans "No Way" Rey, this Mercedes-Benz seems to have virtually no limits.

Outstanding in all conditions.

Despite the demanding route, the GL with its comfortable AIRMATIC ADS air suspension featuring the adaptive damping system makes it easy for Hans Rey to relax during the drive. Born in the Black Forest in 1966, this cosmopolitan sportsman now holds Swiss and US citizenship and is happy to talk about the early stages of his unique career: "For me, it all started at the bike trial in Germany. When I went to America in 1987, mountain biking was just getting established as a sport. I could never have imagined then that I would spend the next 25 years as a professional biker and travel to 70 countries." Hans Rey regularly undertakes bike tours with athlete friends and celebrities like John McEnroe in remote regions such as Peru, Nepal and Tanzania.

"I love the adventure and learning about other cultures. A bike opens doors, hearts and friendships all over the world because nearly everyone can relate to a bicycle. For me, the bike is the means to an end: fun, sport – and maybe even doing some good along the way."