The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450 stands as a testament to luxury and versatility in the SUV market. This model year offered a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology, making it a sought-after vehicle for families and individuals alike. Let’s delve into the standard and optional features that defined the 2013 GL450 experience.
Standard Comfort and Convenience Features
Mercedes-Benz ensured that the 2013 GL450 came generously equipped right from the base model, prioritizing passenger comfort and convenience. Enjoying the open air and natural light is effortless thanks to the power tilt/sliding glass sunroof with a sunshade and express open/close functionality. Both front and rear passengers benefit from power windows with express up/down, while rear quarter windows are also power-operated. Maintaining a comfortable cabin temperature is seamless with the dual-zone automatic climate control, complete with a dust filter to keep allergens at bay.
For driver and front passenger comfort, heated 8-way power front seats are standard, including power 4-way driver lumbar support for enhanced spinal comfort on long journeys. The multifunction premium leather steering wheel adds a touch of luxury and provides convenient access to vehicle controls. The COMAND system with central controller acts as the nerve center for infotainment, while a rearview camera enhances safety and ease of parking. Entertainment options are plentiful with an in-dash 6-disc CD/DVD changer and HD Radio. Staying connected is simple with Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling. Practical features include an integrated 3-button garage door opener, privacy glass for rear occupants, and power folding third row seats to easily adapt cargo space. The power liftgate offers effortless access to the cargo area, which is further enhanced by a retractable luggage compartment cover. Ample storage for beverages is provided with six cupholders and two bottle holders integrated into the doors. Standard features also extend to driver aids such as cruise control and rain-sensing intermittent wipers. Automatic headlamps with twilight sensor & programmable locator lighting ensure optimal visibility, complemented by stylish and energy-efficient LED Daytime Running Lamps & tail lamps. A convenient 115V AC Power Outlet allows for powering devices on the go, and the interior is finished with elegant Eucalyptus wood trim.
Performance and Handling Prowess
Under the hood, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450 boasts impressive performance capabilities. The engine delivers 362 horsepower between 5,000 and 6,000 RPM and a substantial 406 lb-ft of torque from 1,500 to 4,000 RPM. Power is delivered smoothly and efficiently through a 7-speed automatic transmission featuring a DIRECT SELECT shift lever and steering wheel mounted shift paddles for a more engaging driving experience. The GL450 rides on 19″ Twin 5-spoke alloy wheels fitted with 275/55 R19 all-season tires, providing a balance of style and all-weather capability. The sophisticated AIRMATIC self-leveling air suspension and 4-wheel disc brakes contribute to a comfortable and controlled ride. Electromechanical steering further enhances the driving dynamics of this luxury SUV.
Safety and Security as Standard
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety, and the 2013 GL450 reflects this commitment with a comprehensive suite of standard safety and security features. ATTENTION ASSIST helps to detect driver drowsiness, while Collision Prevention Assist can help mitigate or avoid frontal collisions. Crosswind stabilization enhances vehicle stability in challenging windy conditions. Occupant protection is paramount with a steel-reinforced cabin featuring front and rear crumple zones, and front and rear outboard seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters. Multiple airbags are standard, including dual two-stage front airbags, rear side airbags, window curtain airbags, and a driver’s side knee airbag. The innovative PRE-SAFE® system can proactively prepare the vehicle for an impending collision. POST-SAFE features are activated after a collision to further enhance safety. The Mercedes-Benz mbrace2™ system provides connectivity and emergency services. Braking is handled by 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with Brake Assist System, and vehicle stability is managed by Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) with ESP trailer stabilization system and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR). For families, LATCH-lower anchors and tethers for children and rear door child safety locks are included. Security features encompass an antitheft alarm with engine immobilizer and SmartKey with panic button. An advanced tire pressure monitoring system keeps drivers informed, and a minispare tire is provided for emergencies. Peace of mind is further enhanced by a new vehicle 4-year/50,000 mile warranty, a 24-hour roadside assistance program, and the inclusion of the Mercedes-Benz maintenance system. A Vehicle Tool Kit is also standard.
Optional Packages for Enhanced Luxury and Technology
For buyers seeking to further personalize their 2013 GL450, Mercedes-Benz offered a range of optional packages. The Premium 1 Package added features such as an iPod/MP3 media interface, the upgraded COMAND system with hard-drive navigation & voice control, SiriusXM Radio, auto-dimming side and rear view mirrors, power folding mirrors, multi-color ambient lighting, and upgraded heated 10-way power memory front seats with power 4-way lumbar support.
Stepping up to the Premium 2 Package included all the features of Premium 1 and further enhanced the luxury experience with a harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround-sound system with Dolby Digital 5.1, KEYLESS-GO, a Lockable Rear Storage Compartment, and Soft-close doors.
The Lighting Package focused on enhanced visibility, adding a headlamp cleaning system, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, and Bi-xenon headlamps w/Active Curve Illumination & corner illuminating lamps.
For parking convenience, the Parking Assist Package included PARKTRONIC w/Active Parking Assist and Surround view.
Advanced driver assistance features were available with the Driver Assistance Package, featuring DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE® Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist. A more focused Lane Tracking Package offered Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist.
The Appearance Package added visual flair with 20″ 10-spoke wheels, illuminated running boards, and dual chrome-tipped exhaust outlets.
For those seeking enhanced off-road capability, the On- and Off-Road Package provided Adaptive Damping System, a two-stage transfer case with reduction gear, longitudinal differential lock, six transmission settings, and underride protection.
Standalone and Special Order Options
Beyond packages, a wide array of standalone options allowed for granular customization. These included KEYLESS-GO, 20″ 10-spoke wheels, a Wood/leather multifunction steering wheel, a Heated multifunction steering wheel, Active Curve System, Heated/active ventilated front seats, a Power tilt/sliding panorama sunroof, a Trailer hitch – 7,500 lbs, 3-zone automatic climate control and rear air conditioning, Illuminated brushed aluminum running boards with rubber studs, a Rear Seat Entertainment System (with pre-wiring option), Easy-entry (power 2nd row release), Driver and passenger multicontour seats with massage, Heated rear seats, and various trim options like Burl Walnut Wood Trim, designo Upholstery w/DINAMICA headliner, designo Black Piano Lacquer Wood Trim, and designo Wood/leather multifunction steering wheel.
Special order options further expanded personalization, with unique interior leather colors like Auburn Brown/Black Leather, Almond Beige/Black Leather, and Grey/Black Leather, along with trim options such as Aluminum Trim, Anthracite Poplar Wood Trim, and Brown Satin Ash wood trim. Practical additions included a Heated Windshield Washer Reservoir, Black Headliner, Adaptive Damping System (ADSII), a 2nd row seat pass through, Lower dashboard in MB-Tex, Rear side window sunshades, Nightview Assist Plus, and a premium Bang & Olufsen Sound System.
Paint and Upholstery Choices
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450 offered a range of exterior paint colors, including Black, Cinnabar Red, Obsidian Black, Arctic White, Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Pearl Beige, Dakota Brown, Diamond White, and Lunar Blue. Interior upholstery choices included Black MB-Tex, Almond Beige MB-Tex, Grey MB-Tex, Black Leather, Almond Beige Leather, and Grey Leather.
In conclusion, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450 was a well-appointed luxury SUV, offering a broad spectrum of standard features and a vast selection of optional packages and standalone enhancements to cater to individual preferences and needs. Its combination of performance, luxury, and versatility solidified its position as a strong contender in its class.
