2013 MERCEDES-BENZ GL-Class

2013 GL 450 Perfection

Performance Rating: 5

After months of research into the true SUV and Luxury class of truck based, non-crossover vehicles, the GL450 consistently rated high among the likes of the Audi Q7, Escalade, Land Cruiser, Range Rover and Lexus 570. Because of the company it kept regarding comparable SUV's in the Luxury Class, I selected the Mercedes Benz GL450 as the used vehicle to buy. I have no single regret. This machine is as advertised in terms of its power, handling, comfort and high quality assembly of interior and exterior materials and design. I immediately took my "new" used Mercedes on a 3,000 mile road trip. The performance and reliability were flawless as the comfort and handling were as good as I have ever had. Ok, the highest quality SUV I've owned is a 2011 Nissan Murano so one could say "what does he know"? Right your are but because I've been driving since early 1960, I know what I like, know what is fake and the true meaning of quality, or "high" quality. This 2013 hit all the marks and I am impressed with its Sherman Tank domination of the road with more than adequate comfort and non-fatigue long haul driving experience. Love how the cruise control operates and can shift up/down in 1 MPH or 5 MPH increments. The immediate power available in the twin-turbo V8 is extremely satisfying. Gas mileage is not an area I gave too much concern to because of the weight and size of the GL450, it's not great for sure but it isn't as poor as many of the comparable vehicles mentioned above, so in that category I say the GL450 is decent. If I could have found one with all zone climate control and Panoramic Sunroof, those would be icing on the cake. I found one painted in Iridium Silver, performance Package 2 and with all the standard features this beauty is still amazing and priced mid $40,000 with 31,000 miles returned from lease. Best deal and best true SUV I've had ever. Highly, highly recommended.