The 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL450 stands as a testament to luxury and capability in the SUV market. This vehicle offers a compelling blend of comfort, advanced technology, and robust performance, making it an excellent choice for discerning drivers and families alike. While sharing similarities with the GL350 Bluetec, the GL450 distinguishes itself with a potent turbocharged gas V8 engine, setting the stage for a more exhilarating driving experience. Let’s delve into the features that make the 2014 GL450 a standout in its class.
Key Features and Standard Equipment of the 2014 GL450
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL450 is generously equipped right from the base model. Exterior features are designed for both style and practicality, including 19-inch wheels and roof rails that enhance its SUV profile. Functionality is boosted by automatic headlights, LED running lights and taillights for improved visibility, and rear privacy glass for passenger comfort. The convenience features extend to a power liftgate and sunroof, alongside power rear quarter windows, adding to the overall user-friendly design.
Ride comfort and handling are prioritized with a self-leveling air suspension system, ensuring a smooth journey across various terrains. Inside, the GL450 offers a premium experience with dual-zone automatic climate control, MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery, and heated eight-way power front seats with four-way lumbar adjustment. The driver benefits from a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and elegant wood interior trim, creating a sophisticated cabin ambiance. The power-folding third-row seat adds versatility, easily adapting to passenger and cargo needs.
Advanced Technology and Connectivity
The 2014 GL450 is equipped with Mercedes’ intuitive COMAND interface, controlled via a knob-based system and displayed on a 7-inch central screen. This system manages various vehicle functions and entertainment options. Connectivity is modern with Bluetooth for phone and audio streaming, Mercedes mbrace2 communications for smartphone integration, and a sound system featuring HD radio, an auxiliary audio jack, and a USB port.
Elevating the Experience with Optional Packages
For those seeking an even higher level of luxury and technology, the 2014 GL450 offers several upgrade packages:
Premium 1 Package
The Premium 1 package significantly enhances the GL450’s features. It includes power-folding exterior mirrors and auto-dimming mirrors for added convenience and safety. Illuminated front door sills and multicolor ambient lighting enhance the interior aesthetics. Practical additions include heated and cooled cupholders and a rear 115-volt household-style power outlet. The driver benefits from a power-adjustable steering wheel and a 10-way power seat with memory functions. Technological upgrades include voice command functionality with a learning feature, a navigation system, 10 GB of digital music storage, satellite radio, and an iPod interface.
Lighting and Lane Tracking Packages
The Lighting package focuses on enhanced visibility and safety, adding adaptive bi-xenon headlights with adaptive high-beam control. The Lane Tracking package further enhances safety with a blind-spot monitor and lane-keeping assist, crucial for highway driving and urban environments.
Parking Assist Package
Navigating tight spaces becomes easier with the Parking Assist package. This package includes front and rear parking sensors, an automated parallel-parking system, and a surround-view parking camera system, providing comprehensive assistance during parking maneuvers.
Comparing the GL450 to Other GL Models
While the GL450 offers a robust set of features, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL lineup includes other models like the GL550 and GL63 AMG, each with its unique strengths. The GL550 builds upon the GL450’s foundation by including many of the optional packages as standard and upgrading to a more powerful V8 engine. It also adds 21-inch wheels, adaptive suspension dampers, keyless entry/ignition, leather upholstery, and a Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system, among other enhancements.
For ultimate performance, the GL63 AMG sits at the top of the range with an even more powerful V8 engine, a sport-tuned suspension, and AMG-specific styling, appealing to driving enthusiasts.
However, the GL450 strikes a compelling balance, offering a luxurious experience with a powerful engine and a wide array of features, making it a smart choice within the 2014 GL series.
Optional Features Across the GL Range
Beyond model-specific upgrades, several options were available across the 2014 GL range, allowing for further customization. These include a panoramic sunroof, heated second-row seats, and the Driver Assistance package, which features adaptive cruise control and advanced driver warning systems for enhanced safety and convenience on longer journeys. For off-road enthusiasts, the On-/Off-Road package available for the GL450 and GL550 adds adaptive suspension dampers, a six-mode terrain selector, and front underbody protection, increasing versatility.
Conclusion: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL450 – A Smart Luxury SUV Choice
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL450 successfully combines luxury, performance, and practicality in a full-size SUV. Its powerful V8 engine, coupled with a wealth of standard and optional features, positions it as a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment. Whether prioritizing family comfort, advanced technology, or robust performance, the GL450 offers a well-rounded package that continues to appeal to buyers seeking a premium SUV experience. Its blend of features and available upgrades ensures it can be tailored to meet a variety of needs and preferences, making it a noteworthy option in the used luxury SUV market.
