The 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class stands as a testament to luxury and versatility in the SUV market. This model year offers a range of options to cater to diverse needs and preferences, from fuel-efficient diesel to high-performance AMG variants. Let’s explore the features that define each model within the 2014 GL-Class lineup.
Model Breakdown: GL350 Bluetec, GL450, GL550, and GL63 AMG
The 2014 GL-Class presents four distinct models: the GL350 Bluetec, GL450, GL550, and the top-tier GL63 AMG. While sharing a common platform, each model distinguishes itself through its engine and standard equipment.
GL350 Bluetec and GL450: Core Luxury and Features
The GL350 Bluetec and GL450 serve as the entry points to the 2014 GL-Class range, offering a comprehensive suite of luxury and convenience features. Both models are equipped similarly, with the key differentiator being under the hood.
Standard features include 19-inch wheels, roof rails, and a self-leveling air suspension for a comfortable ride. Automatic headlights, LED running lights and taillights enhance visibility and aesthetics. Rear privacy glass adds passenger comfort, while a power liftgate and sunroof bring convenience to daily use. Power rear quarter windows, a rearview camera, and cruise control are also standard.
Alt text: Side view of a silver 2014 Mercedes Benz GL Class showcasing its elegant SUV design.
Inside, dual-zone automatic climate control, MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery, and heated eight-way power front seats with lumbar adjustment ensure comfort. A leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and wood interior trim add a touch of sophistication. The power-folding third-row seat enhances practicality.
Electronic features are centered around the knob-based COMAND interface with a 7-inch central display. Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, Mercedes mbrace2 communications with smartphone app integration, and a sound system with HD radio, auxiliary audio jack, and USB port provide connectivity and entertainment.
Premium 1, Lighting, Lane Tracking, and Parking Assist Packages
For enhanced features, the Premium 1 package, available for the GL350 and GL450, adds power-folding exterior mirrors, auto-dimming mirrors, and illuminated front door sills. Heated and cooled cupholders and a rear 115-volt household-style power outlet increase convenience. Multicolor ambient lighting elevates the cabin ambiance. A power-adjustable steering wheel, 10-way power driver seat with memory functions, and voice command functionality with a learning feature enhance driver comfort and control. Navigation, 10 GB of digital music storage, satellite radio, and an iPod interface upgrade the infotainment system.
The Lighting package adds adaptive bi-xenon headlights with adaptive high-beam control for improved nighttime visibility. Safety is further enhanced with the Lane Tracking package, which includes a blind-spot monitor and lane-keeping assist. The Parking Assist package brings front and rear parking sensors, an automated parallel-parking system, and a surround-view parking camera system to simplify parking maneuvers.
Alt text: Detailed view of the 2014 Mercedes Benz GL Class dashboard, highlighting the COMAND system and wood trim.
GL550: Elevated Luxury and Performance
Stepping up to the GL550 brings a significant upgrade in both performance and luxury. It includes all the features and option packages available on the GL350 and GL450, and further enhances the experience with a more powerful V8 engine and 21-inch wheels. Adaptive suspension dampers and sporty exterior styling cues distinguish the GL550 visually and dynamically.
Keyless entry/ignition and soft-close doors add convenience and refinement. Inside, unique dashboard stitching and different wood trim create a more upscale atmosphere. Triple-zone automatic climate control and leather upholstery enhance passenger comfort. Ventilated “multicontour” front seats with adjustable bolsters, massage, and enhanced lumbar adjustment provide superior seating comfort. A power-adjustable wood-and-leather steering wheel and a 13-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system with a six-CD changer and SD card reader complete the luxurious experience.
GL63 AMG: Ultimate Performance SUV
The GL63 AMG sits at the pinnacle of the 2014 GL-Class range, offering uncompromising performance and exclusive features. Building upon the already extensive equipment of the GL550, the GL63 AMG boasts an even more potent V8 engine, a sport-tuned suspension, and adaptive stabilizer bars (Active Curve System). Exclusive 21-inch wheels and AMG-specific styling elements further differentiate it. A microfiber-trimmed sport steering wheel adds a sporty touch to the interior. An optional 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen surround-sound audio system is exclusively available for the GL63 AMG, catering to audiophiles.
Alt text: Close-up of the aggressive front grille of a 2014 Mercedes Benz GL 63 AMG, emphasizing its sporty design.
Optional Features Across the Range
Beyond model-specific features, several options were available across the 2014 GL-Class lineup. These include a panoramic sunroof, heated second-row seats, and the Driver Assistance package with adaptive cruise control and advanced driver warning systems. A trailer hitch, various alternative interior trims, power-sliding second-row seats for third-row access, rear side window sunshades, a rear entertainment system, and a Splitview display for the COMAND system offered further customization. The GL450 and 550 could also be equipped with an On-/Off-Road package, adding adaptive suspension dampers, a six-mode terrain selector, and front underbody protection for enhanced off-road capability.
Conclusion: The Versatile Luxury of the 2014 GL-Class
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class provided a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and versatility. From the efficient diesel GL350 Bluetec to the exhilarating GL63 AMG, there was a model to suit a wide range of needs and desires. Its extensive list of standard and optional features ensured a premium experience, making it a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment. Keeping a vehicle like the 2014 GL-Class in top condition, both mechanically and aesthetically, is key to preserving its value and enjoying its many attributes for years to come.
