Premium performance, at a price
By Christian Wardlaw
|
November 13, 2006
Why We Drove It
Mercedes-Benz GL450 – Review:Originally conceived as a replacement for the testosterone-injected G-Class, the Mercedes-Benz GL450 morphed into a luxurious but eminently capable family hauler when fans of the venerable G-Wagen cried foul over plans to kill their favorite leather-lined military vehicle. Sandwiched into the MBZ lineup above the M-Class and below the G-Class and pitched as a full-size SUV, the GL450 realistically possesses the practical interior space of a Lexus RX rather than a Cadillac Escalade. We spent a week driving the GL450 to see if it makes sense as a logical alternative to true full-sizers like the ‘Sclade, and whether the price premium over the M-Class is worthwhile. The answer: Yes, on both counts.
What We Drove
We borrowed a Barolo Red GL450 from Mercedes-Benz for this evaluation. Our test sample's base price swelled from $55,675 to $72,635 thanks to a long list of options – some of which should have been included as standard. Our truck included Premium Package 1, a Lighting Package, a Sunroof Package, an Off-Road Package, a Rear Seat Entertainment Package, and a Three-Zone Climate Control Package. It also had Macadamia leather, a reversing camera, a trailer hitch, a wood and leather steering wheel, and ambient interior lighting.
Performance
Addictive best describes the Mercedes-Benz GL450's fantastic 335-horsepower, 4.6-liter V8 engine's powerband. This 5,249-pound SUV is a rocket, building velocity at a mind-boggling pace. The seven-speed automatic transmission shifts sublimely under all circumstances, kicking down into the thick of the power with just a moment's hesitation. Plus, it sound great. Of course, fuel economy suffers when the power is exploited. We drove like jerks only part of the time, and still managed just 14.6 mpg, right between the EPA rating of 14 city and 18 highway.
Handling
Tall, heavy, and riding on rather tall 265/60R18 Continental 4x4 Contact mud-and-snow tires, the Mercedes-Benz GL450 isn't the best handling SUV available, but we anticipate that M-B's in-house performance tuner, AMG, will rectify that situation shortly. In the real world where most people drive, the GL rocks. It beats every type of pavement anomaly into submission, features an electronically adjustable suspension that can ride stiffly or softly, and boasts an extremely tight turning circle. The steering is too heavy at low speeds and the brake pedal takes some getting used to, but overall this is a terrific machine for the daily grind.
Visibility
Sightlines to the rear are completely clear thanks to shingle-style headrests that nestle down onto the second- and third-row seatbacks. The side mirrors are on the small side, and reflections off the outboard vent trim rings can cloud the view to the sides. Forward visibility is good past somewhat thick windshield pillars. Our Mercedes-Benz GL450 came with a reversing camera and front parking sensors, making it easy to squeeze this big rig into tight spots.
Fun to Drive
Keep it out of the canyons, and the Mercedes-Benz GL450 is lots of fun to drive. It's surprisingly nimble around town, solid and stable on broken pavement, quiet and composed on the highway. We didn't take this particular GL into the dirt, but previous experience in rain-drenched mud bogs proved adept the GL450's combination of traction control, low-range gearing, hill descent control, and height adjustable suspension. Overall, this is one SUV you'll actually look forward to driving every day.
Front Comfort
Though the front seats in our GL450 test truck lacked thigh extenders, massage functions, and cooling features, they were extremely comfortable. Leather-wrapped portions of the steering wheel were soft and pleasing to grip, but the upper door panel where I like to rest my elbow had a hard strip of wood making it uncomfortable. On cold days, I'd probably wish for a heated steering wheel, and on hot days seat coolers would come in handy. Also, at this price, lumbar support should be power and not manual.
Rear Comfort
The GL450's second-row seat is mounted a bit too low, but offers good thigh support. Plastic cupholders are molded into the center armrest right where a passenger would place an elbow. Knee room is good, but foot room is lacking. Plus, exposed metal seat frames could damage expensive shoes. The third-row seat sits tall with good thigh support, but leg space is at a premium for adults. Foot space is decent, and the walk-in feature automatically powers the front passenger's seat forward for clearance. Unfortunately, that seat doesn't automatically return to its position once everyone is aboard.
Interior Noise
The Mercedes-Benz GL450 is well isolated from wind and road noise, and the engine only makes itself known when accelerating, but that's music to the ears. Our test car exhibited no rattles or squeaks.
Loading Cargo
Pop the GL450's power tailgate to find helpful power-folding third-row seats that create a generous amount of room with the touch of a button. Removing the lightweight metal cargo cover is a hassle, and it's too long to store flush against the side panel and still close the tailgate. Under the cargo floor is a temporary spare tire and a well where items can be stored. Flip the second-row seat cushions forward and flop the seatbacks down to create a relatively flat, carpeted load floor. Watch the overhead climate vents, though, because they're likely to get in the way when loading large items. The rounded cargo opening also limits the size and shape of items that can be placed in the GL.
Build Quality
It took a very close inspection to find any flaws with our Mercedes-Benz GL450's build quality. I spotted minor fit issues with the driver's door and beltline trim on the left rear door at the C-pillar joint that fit poorly. Otherwise, the exterior was flawless. Inside, I couldn't find anything wrong with the GL450.
Materials Quality
I have no complaints with the quality of the Mercedes-Benz GL450's interior materials, but they somehow strike me as just nice enough to escape criticism. Take the visors, for example, which are just this side of econocar cheap but can probably be explained away as sturdy, efficient German design. Also, while the leather didn't bother me any, I suspect some luxury car buyers might think it's too stiff and somewhat dry to the touch.
Styling
In my opinion, the Mercedes-Benz GL450 is a great looking SUV inside and out, and one of the most appealing models in the Mercedes lineup. However, several exterior cues are derivative. Check out that C-pillar shape, which screams Jeep Grand Cherokee. When parked next to a Toyota 4Runner I noticed close resemblances in the headlights, taillights, and rear bumper design. Inside, tasteful two-tone décor with burl walnut wood trim, silver metallic accents and cleaned-up ergonomics are the rule, and I especially like the padded support bars that span between the dash and the center storage bin on both sides of the illuminated cupholders.
Storage
Storage inside the Mercedes-Benz GL450 isn't lacking but the number of locations is sparse. The glove box is huge, felt-lined and equipped with three compartments, and the thick owner's manual is stowed in a net attached to the passenger's side of the dashboard to make space in the glove box. The center console is dual-tiered, but both compartments are small, and the large front door bins are both rubber-lined and equipped with bottle holders. Flimsy ticket holders are attached to the backs of both sun visors. In the second-row, dual seatback nets and door panel bins are available. The third-row seat has no storage areas.
Infotainment Controls
Gratefully, Mercedes-Benz hasn't installed a magic silver controlled in the GL450. This version of COMAND is relatively simple, but does not employ a user-friendly touch screen. Instead, a toggle moves through menus and selects functions, or items shown on the screen are mapped to hard keys lining each side of the screen. Navigation offers useful bread crumb trail feature and GPS coordinates, but is somewhat confusing to program. Mercedes can still take a lesson from Lexus on this front.
Climate Controls
Our test truck came with the optional triple-zone climate control system which includes separate controls for people riding in the second-row seat. The dashboard controls are relatively simple to use though appear daunting at first. Heated seat buttons are easy to find, but our Mercedes-Benz GL450 did not come with cooled seats, and it did not come with heated rear seats.
Secondary Controls
Secondary functions are logically located, but sometimes the markings aren't instantly clear – such as the rear vent window symbols and the 4WD controls. Power seat adjustments are made on the seat base rather than the traditional Mercedes pictograms on the door panels. The cruise control is still on a left-hand stalk, while the turn signals, high-beam headlights, and wiper/washers for the front and rear are all grouped on a thick, sturdy stalk that is completely hidden from view by the steering wheel supports. The GL450 is equipped with an unconventional column shifter that is easy to get used to.
2nd Opinion – Raymond So
Appearances can easily deceive with the Mercedes-Benz GL450. The bland GL may be big but it doesn't feel like it from behind the wheel. For an SUV, steering is precise with just the right amount of heft and feedback. Even with the air suspension set to “sport” mode, the ride is supple and comfortable without being too cushy. Body roll is evident on corners but won't sway you into sickness. The engine and transmission are silky smooth, but the brakes felt numb underfoot. Seats are comfortable, and for a vehicle of this size the fit and finish was impeccable. The GL impresses, but not at its price.
We borrowed a Barolo Red GL450 from Mercedes-Benz for this evaluation. Our test sample's base price swelled from $55,675 to $72,635 thanks to a long list of options – some of which should have been included as standard. Our truck included Premium Package 1, a Lighting Package, a Sunroof Package, an Off-Road Package, a Rear Seat Entertainment Package, and a Three-Zone Climate Control Package. It also had Macadamia leather, a reversing camera, a trailer hitch, a wood and leather steering wheel, and ambient interior lighting.
Performance
Addictive best describes the Mercedes-Benz GL450's fantastic 335-horsepower, 4.6-liter V8 engine's powerband. This 5,249-pound SUV is a rocket, building velocity at a mind-boggling pace. The seven-speed automatic transmission shifts sublimely under all circumstances, kicking down into the thick of the power with just a moment's hesitation. Plus, it sound great. Of course, fuel economy suffers when the power is exploited. We drove like jerks only part of the time, and still managed just 14.6 mpg, right between the EPA rating of 14 city and 18 highway.
Handling
Tall, heavy, and riding on rather tall 265/60R18 Continental 4x4 Contact mud-and-snow tires, the Mercedes-Benz GL450 isn't the best handling SUV available, but we anticipate that M-B's in-house performance tuner, AMG, will rectify that situation shortly. In the real world where most people drive, the GL rocks. It beats every type of pavement anomaly into submission, features an electronically adjustable suspension that can ride stiffly or softly, and boasts an extremely tight turning circle. The steering is too heavy at low speeds and the brake pedal takes some getting used to, but overall this is a terrific machine for the daily grind.
Visibility
Sightlines to the rear are completely clear thanks to shingle-style headrests that nestle down onto the second- and third-row seatbacks. The side mirrors are on the small side, and reflections off the outboard vent trim rings can cloud the view to the sides. Forward visibility is good past somewhat thick windshield pillars. Our Mercedes-Benz GL450 came with a reversing camera and front parking sensors, making it easy to squeeze this big rig into tight spots.
Fun to Drive
Keep it out of the canyons, and the Mercedes-Benz GL450 is lots of fun to drive. It's surprisingly nimble around town, solid and stable on broken pavement, quiet and composed on the highway. We didn't take this particular GL into the dirt, but previous experience in rain-drenched mud bogs proved adept the GL450's combination of traction control, low-range gearing, hill descent control, and height adjustable suspension. Overall, this is one SUV you'll actually look forward to driving every day.
Front Comfort
Though the front seats in our GL450 test truck lacked thigh extenders, massage functions, and cooling features, they were extremely comfortable. Leather-wrapped portions of the steering wheel were soft and pleasing to grip, but the upper door panel where I like to rest my elbow had a hard strip of wood making it uncomfortable. On cold days, I'd probably wish for a heated steering wheel, and on hot days seat coolers would come in handy. Also, at this price, lumbar support should be power and not manual.
Rear Comfort
The GL450's second-row seat is mounted a bit too low, but offers good thigh support. Plastic cupholders are molded into the center armrest right where a passenger would place an elbow. Knee room is good, but foot room is lacking. Plus, exposed metal seat frames could damage expensive shoes. The third-row seat sits tall with good thigh support, but leg space is at a premium for adults. Foot space is decent, and the walk-in feature automatically powers the front passenger's seat forward for clearance. Unfortunately, that seat doesn't automatically return to its position once everyone is aboard.
Interior Noise
The Mercedes-Benz GL450 is well isolated from wind and road noise, and the engine only makes itself known when accelerating, but that's music to the ears. Our test car exhibited no rattles or squeaks.
Loading Cargo
Pop the GL450's power tailgate to find helpful power-folding third-row seats that create a generous amount of room with the touch of a button. Removing the lightweight metal cargo cover is a hassle, and it's too long to store flush against the side panel and still close the tailgate. Under the cargo floor is a temporary spare tire and a well where items can be stored. Flip the second-row seat cushions forward and flop the seatbacks down to create a relatively flat, carpeted load floor. Watch the overhead climate vents, though, because they're likely to get in the way when loading large items. The rounded cargo opening also limits the size and shape of items that can be placed in the GL.
Build Quality
It took a very close inspection to find any flaws with our Mercedes-Benz GL450's build quality. I spotted minor fit issues with the driver's door and beltline trim on the left rear door at the C-pillar joint that fit poorly. Otherwise, the exterior was flawless. Inside, I couldn't find anything wrong with the GL450.
Materials Quality
I have no complaints with the quality of the Mercedes-Benz GL450's interior materials, but they somehow strike me as just nice enough to escape criticism. Take the visors, for example, which are just this side of econocar cheap but can probably be explained away as sturdy, efficient German design. Also, while the leather didn't bother me any, I suspect some luxury car buyers might think it's too stiff and somewhat dry to the touch.
Styling
In my opinion, the Mercedes-Benz GL450 is a great looking SUV inside and out, and one of the most appealing models in the Mercedes lineup. However, several exterior cues are derivative. Check out that C-pillar shape, which screams Jeep Grand Cherokee. When parked next to a Toyota 4Runner I noticed close resemblances in the headlights, taillights, and rear bumper design. Inside, tasteful two-tone décor with burl walnut wood trim, silver metallic accents and cleaned-up ergonomics are the rule, and I especially like the padded support bars that span between the dash and the center storage bin on both sides of the illuminated cupholders.
Storage
Storage inside the Mercedes-Benz GL450 isn't lacking but the number of locations is sparse. The glove box is huge, felt-lined and equipped with three compartments, and the thick owner's manual is stowed in a net attached to the passenger's side of the dashboard to make space in the glove box. The center console is dual-tiered, but both compartments are small, and the large front door bins are both rubber-lined and equipped with bottle holders. Flimsy ticket holders are attached to the backs of both sun visors. In the second-row, dual seatback nets and door panel bins are available. The third-row seat has no storage areas.
Infotainment Controls
Gratefully, Mercedes-Benz hasn't installed a magic silver controlled in the GL450. This version of COMAND is relatively simple, but does not employ a user-friendly touch screen. Instead, a toggle moves through menus and selects functions, or items shown on the screen are mapped to hard keys lining each side of the screen. Navigation offers useful bread crumb trail feature and GPS coordinates, but is somewhat confusing to program. Mercedes can still take a lesson from Lexus on this front.
Climate Controls
Our test truck came with the optional triple-zone climate control system which includes separate controls for people riding in the second-row seat. The dashboard controls are relatively simple to use though appear daunting at first. Heated seat buttons are easy to find, but our Mercedes-Benz GL450 did not come with cooled seats, and it did not come with heated rear seats.
Secondary Controls
Secondary functions are logically located, but sometimes the markings aren't instantly clear – such as the rear vent window symbols and the 4WD controls. Power seat adjustments are made on the seat base rather than the traditional Mercedes pictograms on the door panels. The cruise control is still on a left-hand stalk, while the turn signals, high-beam headlights, and wiper/washers for the front and rear are all grouped on a thick, sturdy stalk that is completely hidden from view by the steering wheel supports. The GL450 is equipped with an unconventional column shifter that is easy to get used to.
2nd Opinion – Raymond So
Appearances can easily deceive with the Mercedes-Benz GL450. The bland GL may be big but it doesn't feel like it from behind the wheel. For an SUV, steering is precise with just the right amount of heft and feedback. Even with the air suspension set to “sport” mode, the ride is supple and comfortable without being too cushy. Body roll is evident on corners but won't sway you into sickness. The engine and transmission are silky smooth, but the brakes felt numb underfoot. Seats are comfortable, and for a vehicle of this size the fit and finish was impeccable. The GL impresses, but not at its price.
Photos courtesy of Ron Perry