The Comprehensive Feature Breakdown of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450 stands as a paragon of luxury SUVs, blending robust performance with unparalleled comfort and a suite of advanced technological features. As a seasoned auto repair specialist familiar with the intricacies of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, particularly models like the GL450, I’ve compiled a detailed overview of what makes this vehicle a standout choice, even in today’s competitive market. This article will delve into the standard equipment, performance metrics, safety features, and available optional packages for the 2013 Gl450, providing a comprehensive understanding for potential owners and automotive enthusiasts alike.

Standard Equipment: Luxury and Functionality from the Ground Up

The 2013 GL450 doesn’t skimp on standard features, ensuring a premium experience right from the base model. Let’s explore the comfort, convenience, performance, handling, safety, and security elements that come standard with this vehicle.

Comfort and Convenience: A Cabin Designed for Indulgence

The interior of the 2013 GL450 is crafted for ultimate comfort and convenience, making every journey a pleasure.

Panoramic Sunroof: Enjoy the open air and natural light with the power tilt/sliding glass sunroof, complete with a sunshade and express open/close functionality.
Power Features: Power windows with express up/down and power rear quarter windows provide effortless control.
Automatic Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control with a dust filter ensures optimal cabin temperature for all occupants.
Heated Power Front Seats: Heated 8-way power front seats with 4-way driver lumbar support offer personalized comfort for long drives.
Leather Steering Wheel: A multifunction premium leather steering wheel adds a touch of luxury and puts essential controls at your fingertips.
COMAND System: The COMAND system with a central controller provides access to various vehicle functions.
Rearview Camera: Standard rearview camera enhances safety and ease when maneuvering in reverse.
Entertainment System: An in-dash 6-disc CD/DVD changer, HD Radio, and Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling provide a range of entertainment options.
Garage Door Opener: Integrated 3-button garage door opener adds everyday convenience.
Privacy Glass: Privacy glass enhances passenger privacy and reduces cabin heat.
Power Folding Third Row Seats: Power folding third-row seats offer flexible cargo and passenger configurations.
Power Liftgate: A power liftgate simplifies loading and unloading cargo.
Retractable Luggage Compartment Cover: Keeps your belongings out of sight with the retractable luggage compartment cover.
Ample Storage: Six cupholders and two bottle holders (in the door) provide plenty of storage for beverages.
Cruise Control & Wipers: Cruise control for relaxed highway driving and rain-sensing intermittent wipers for enhanced visibility in inclement weather.
Automatic Headlamps & LED Lighting: Automatic headlamps with twilight sensor and programmable locator lighting, along with LED Daytime Running Lamps and tail lamps, ensure optimal visibility.
115V AC Power Outlet: A 115V AC power outlet allows you to power devices on the go.
Eucalyptus Wood Trim: Eucalyptus wood trim adds a touch of natural elegance to the interior.

Alt text: Luxurious eucalyptus wood trim detail in the cabin of a 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450, showcasing the premium interior design.

Performance and Handling: Engineered for a Refined Drive

The 2013 GL450 is engineered to deliver a balance of power and refined handling, making it a joy to drive in various conditions.

Powerful V8 Engine: A robust engine producing 362 horsepower at 5,000-6,000 RPM and 406 lb-ft of torque at 1,500 – 4,000 RPM provides ample power for both city and highway driving.
7-Speed Automatic Transmission: A 7-speed automatic transmission with DIRECT SELECT shift lever and steering wheel-mounted shift paddles offers smooth and responsive gear changes.
19″ Alloy Wheels: 19″ Twin 5-spoke alloy wheels paired with 275/55 R19 all-season tires provide a confident stance and reliable grip.
AIRMATIC Suspension: AIRMATIC self-leveling air suspension and 4-wheel disc brakes ensure a comfortable ride and controlled handling.
Electromechanical Steering: Electromechanical steering offers precise and responsive steering feedback.

Alt text: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450 SUV displayed from a side angle, highlighting its 19-inch twin 5-spoke alloy wheels and confident road presence.

Safety and Security: Protecting Occupants with Advanced Systems

Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety, and the 2013 GL450 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and security features.

ATTENTION ASSIST: ATTENTION ASSIST warns the driver if it detects signs of drowsiness.
Collision Prevention Assist: Collision Prevention Assist helps to mitigate potential frontal collisions.
Crosswind Stabilization: Crosswind stabilization enhances vehicle stability in strong crosswinds.
Reinforced Cabin & Airbags: A steel-reinforced cabin with front and rear crumple zones, along with dual two-stage front airbags, rear side airbags, window curtain airbags, and a driver’s side knee airbag, provides comprehensive occupant protection.
PRE-SAFE® & POST-SAFE: PRE-SAFE® anticipates potential collisions and prepares safety systems, while POST-SAFE engages after a collision.
Mercedes-Benz mbrace2™: Mercedes-Benz mbrace2™ offers connectivity and emergency services.
Advanced Braking Systems: 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with Brake Assist System, Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) with ESP trailer stabilization system, and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) provide superior braking and stability control.
Child Safety Features: LATCH-lower anchors and tethers for children and rear door child safety locks ensure child passenger safety.
Antitheft System: An antitheft alarm with an engine immobilizer and SmartKey with a panic button provide robust security.
Tire Pressure Monitoring: Advanced tire pressure monitoring system keeps you informed about tire conditions.

Alt text: The dashboard of a 2013 GL450 Mercedes-Benz, emphasizing the ATTENTION ASSIST system display and other safety-related controls, showcasing the vehicle’s driver-assistance technology.

Optional Packages: Elevating Luxury and Performance

For those seeking even more features, Mercedes-Benz offered a range of optional packages for the 2013 GL450.

Premium Packages: Enhanced Comfort and Technology

Premium 1 Package: This package includes iPod/MP3 media interface, COMAND system with hard-drive navigation & voice control, SiriusXM Radio, auto-dimming side and rearview mirrors, power folding mirrors, multi-color ambient lighting, and heated 10-way power memory front seats with 4-way lumbar support.
Premium 2 Package: Building upon Premium 1, this package adds a harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround-sound system with Dolby Digital 5.1, KEYLESS-GO, a lockable rear storage compartment, and soft-close doors.

Advanced Lighting and Parking Assistance

Lighting Package: Includes a headlamp cleaning system, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, and Bi-xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination & corner illuminating lamps for enhanced visibility in all driving conditions.
Parking Assist Package: Features PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist and Surround View for effortless parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.

Driver Assistance and Lane Tracking

Driver Assistance Package: Equips the GL450 with DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE® Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist, enhancing safety and driver convenience on highways.
Lane Tracking Package: Includes Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, focusing on lane safety and driver awareness.

Appearance and Off-Road Prowess

Appearance Package: Adds 20″ 10-spoke wheels, illuminated running boards, and dual chrome-tipped exhaust outlets for a more striking exterior.
On- and Off-Road Package: For enhanced capability, this package includes Adaptive Damping System, a two-stage transfer case with reduction gear, longitudinal differential lock, six transmission settings, and underride protection.

Alt text: Detailed view of the optional 20-inch 10-spoke wheels available with the Appearance Package for the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450, highlighting the upgraded wheel design.

Standalone Options and Special Orders: Personalizing Your GL450

Beyond packages, a plethora of standalone and special order options allowed buyers to further customize their 2013 GL450. Standalone options included KEYLESS-GO, various 20″ wheel designs, wood/leather steering wheel choices, heated and ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof, trailer hitch, 3-zone climate control, illuminated running boards, rear seat entertainment systems, multicontour seats with massage, heated rear seats, and various wood trim and designo upholstery options. Special order options expanded personalization even further with unique leather colors, trim materials, and advanced features like Nightview Assist Plus and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the 2013 GL450

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL450 remains a compelling choice for those seeking a luxury SUV with a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced features. Its comprehensive standard equipment list, powerful engine, and available optional packages cater to a wide range of needs and preferences. As a repair expert, I can attest to the GL450’s robust build quality and sophisticated engineering, making it a vehicle that continues to impress years after its initial release. For those considering a pre-owned luxury SUV, the 2013 GL450 deserves serious consideration.

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