The 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class represented the pinnacle of luxury SUVs, offering a blend of opulent comfort, robust performance, and advanced technology. This model year showcased a range of options, from the fuel-efficient diesel GL350 Bluetec to the high-performance AMG GL63, ensuring there was a GL-Class to meet diverse needs and preferences. Let’s delve into the specifics of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class lineup.
The GL350 Bluetec and GL450 models served as the foundation of the 2014 GL-Class range, sharing a common platform and a wealth of standard features. Both models came equipped with 19-inch wheels, roof rails for added utility, and a self-leveling air suspension system, which contributed to the vehicle’s smooth and composed ride quality. Automatic headlights and LED daytime running lights and taillights provided enhanced visibility, while rear privacy glass added a touch of exclusivity and passenger comfort. Practicality was also addressed with a power liftgate and a sunroof to brighten the cabin. Power rear quarter windows and a rearview camera further enhanced convenience. Cruise control and dual-zone automatic climate control ensured a comfortable driving experience, regardless of the journey’s length.
Inside, the GL350 and GL450 boasted MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery, heated eight-way power front seats with four-way lumbar support, and a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, creating a luxurious and ergonomic environment for both driver and front passenger. Wood interior trim added a touch of classic elegance. The power-folding third-row seat provided versatility, easily adapting to passenger or cargo needs. Technologically, these models featured the Mercedes-Benz COMAND interface, controlled via a knob and displayed on a 7-inch central screen. Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio streaming, Mercedes mbrace2 communication system with smartphone app integration, and a sound system with HD radio, auxiliary audio jack, and a USB port kept occupants connected and entertained.
For those seeking enhanced features, the Premium 1 package available for the GL350 and GL450 elevated the luxury quotient. This package included power-folding exterior mirrors and auto-dimming mirrors for added convenience and safety. Illuminated front door sills, heated and cooled cupholders, and a rear 115-volt household-style power outlet further enhanced the cabin’s amenities. Multicolor ambient lighting allowed for personalized interior aesthetics. A power-adjustable steering wheel, a 10-way power driver seat with memory functions, and voice command functionality with a learning feature added to the driver’s comfort and convenience. Navigation, 10 GB of digital music storage, satellite radio, and an iPod interface completed the package, enhancing both infotainment and practicality.
The Lighting package, another option for the GL350 and GL450, focused on visibility and safety, adding adaptive bi-xenon headlights with adaptive high-beam control. The Lane Tracking package incorporated a blind-spot monitor and lane-keeping assist, crucial safety features for highway driving and urban maneuvering. Parking became less stressful with the Parking Assist package, which included front and rear parking sensors, an automated parallel-parking system, and a surround-view parking camera system.
Stepping up to the GL550 brought a significant increase in both performance and luxury. Building upon the features and options of the lower trims, the GL550 came standard with all the previously mentioned option packages and boasted a more powerful V8 engine. Visually, it distinguished itself with 21-inch wheels and sporty exterior styling cues. The inclusion of adaptive suspension dampers further refined the ride quality. Keyless entry and ignition, along with soft-close doors, added layers of convenience and sophistication. Inside, unique dashboard stitching and different wood trim differentiated the GL550’s cabin. Triple-zone automatic climate control provided enhanced climate management for rear passengers. Leather upholstery and ventilated “multicontour” front seats, featuring adjustable bolsters, massage function, and enhanced lumbar adjustment, delivered exceptional comfort. A power-adjustable wood-and-leather steering wheel and a premium 13-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system with a six-CD changer and SD card reader completed the GL550’s opulent appointments.
Many of the GL550’s standard features were available as individual options on the GL350 and GL450, allowing buyers to customize their vehicles to their specific preferences. Across the non-AMG GL-Class models (GL350, GL450, GL550), optional extras included a panoramic sunroof for an even more open cabin feel, heated second-row seats for rear passenger comfort in colder climates, and the Driver Assistance package. This advanced safety package featured adaptive cruise control and advanced driver warning systems, enhancing safety and driver assistance.
At the apex of the 2014 GL-Class range sat the GL63 AMG, representing the ultimate in performance and exclusivity. Starting with the already extensive equipment list of the GL550, the GL63 AMG amplified everything. It featured an even more potent V8 engine, a sport-tuned suspension, and adaptive stabilizer bars (Mercedes-Benz’s “Active Curve System”), delivering exceptional handling and dynamic driving capabilities. Exclusive 21-inch wheels and AMG-specific styling elements further emphasized its performance pedigree. Inside, a microfiber-trimmed sport steering wheel added a sporty touch. For audiophiles, a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen surround-sound audio system was exclusively available on the GL63 AMG, offering an unparalleled auditory experience.
Across the entire 2014 GL-Class lineup, further customization was possible with options like a trailer hitch for towing needs, various alternative interior trims to personalize the cabin aesthetics, power-sliding second-row seats to improve access to the third row, rear side window sunshades for added privacy and sun protection, a rear entertainment system to keep rear passengers occupied on long journeys, and a Splitview display for the COMAND system, capable of showing different content to the driver and passenger simultaneously.
For GL450 and GL550 models seeking enhanced off-road capability, the On-/Off-Road package was available. This package included the adaptive suspension dampers, a six-mode terrain selector to optimize vehicle settings for various driving conditions, and front underbody protection, adding a layer of ruggedness and versatility to these models.
In conclusion, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class provided a comprehensive range of luxury SUVs, each offering a unique blend of features, performance, and technology. From the efficient GL350 Bluetec to the powerful GL63 AMG, the 2014 GL-Class catered to a wide spectrum of discerning buyers seeking a premium SUV experience.
