The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class marked a significant year for this luxury SUV, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and advanced technology. Whether you’re a prospective buyer or simply an automotive enthusiast, understanding the standard and optional equipment available for the Mercedes-Benz GL 2013 is crucial. This article delves into the comprehensive feature set that defined this model, providing an in-depth look at what made it a standout in its class.
Standard Comfort and Convenience Features
The Mercedes-Benz GL 2013 was designed with passenger comfort and convenience in mind, offering a range of standard features that elevated the driving experience. Enjoying natural light and fresh air is effortless with the power tilt/sliding glass sunroof, complete with a sunshade and express open/close functionality. Power windows with express up/down in all positions add to the ease of use. Rear passengers also benefit from power rear quarter windows, enhancing ventilation throughout the cabin.
Maintaining a comfortable interior climate is assured with the dual-zone automatic climate control system, equipped with a dust filter to keep the air clean. Front occupants are treated to heated 8-way power front seats, including power 4-way driver lumbar support for personalized comfort on long journeys. The multifunction premium leather steering wheel adds a touch of luxury and puts essential controls at your fingertips.
Technological integration is seamlessly incorporated with the COMAND system with central controller, providing access to various vehicle functions. Parking and maneuvering are simplified with the rearview camera, enhancing safety and convenience. Entertainment is readily available with an in-dash 6-disc CD/DVD changer and HD Radio. For hands-free communication, the Bluetooth interface ensures seamless smartphone integration. Practicality is further enhanced with an integrated 3-button garage door opener, privacy glass for rear passengers, and power folding third-row seats to adapt to varying cargo needs. The power liftgate offers effortless access to the cargo area, which can be kept organized with the retractable luggage compartment cover.
Throughout the cabin, you’ll find ample storage solutions including six cupholders and two bottle holders conveniently placed in the doors. Long drives are made easier with cruise control, while rain-sensing intermittent wipers and automatic headlamps with twilight sensor & programmable locator lighting manage visibility in changing conditions. Distinctive LED Daytime Running Lamps & tail lamps enhance the vehicle’s modern aesthetic and visibility. A convenient 115V AC Power Outlet allows for powering devices on the go, and the elegant Eucalyptus wood trim adds a touch of sophistication to the interior.
Performance and Handling Dynamics
The Mercedes-Benz GL 2013 doesn’t compromise on performance, delivering a potent driving experience. Under the hood, the engine produces an impressive 362 horsepower @ 5,000-6,000 RPM and 406 lb-ft of Torque @ 1,500 – 4,000 RPM, ensuring robust power delivery across a wide range of driving conditions. This power is managed by a smooth and responsive 7-speed automatic transmission featuring a DIRECT SELECT shift lever and steering wheel mounted shift paddles for those who desire more control.
The GL 2013 rides on stylish 19″ Twin 5-spoke alloy wheels paired with 275/55 R19 all-season tires, providing a balance of comfort and grip. The AIRMATIC self-leveling air suspension system and 4-wheel disc brakes contribute to a refined and controlled ride. Electromechanical steering further enhances the driving dynamics, offering precise and responsive handling.
Safety and Security Features
Safety is paramount in the Mercedes-Benz GL 2013, which is equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety and security features. Innovative systems like ATTENTION ASSIST, Collision Prevention Assist, and Crosswind stabilization work proactively to enhance driver awareness and vehicle stability. The vehicle’s structural integrity is reinforced by a steel-reinforced cabin with front and rear crumple zones, designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Front and rear outboard seatbelts are equipped with pre-tensioners and force limiters, and multiple airbags including dual two-stage front airbags, rear side airbags, window curtain airbags, and a driver’s side knee airbag provide comprehensive occupant protection.
The PRE-SAFE® system can anticipate potential collisions and take preventative measures, while POST-SAFE features activate after a collision to mitigate further risks. Mercedes-Benz mbrace2™ connectivity provides access to emergency services and vehicle information. 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with Brake Assist System, Electronic Stability Program (ESP® ) with ESP trailer stabilization system, and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) contribute to confident braking and handling in various conditions. For families, LATCH-lower anchors and tethers for children and rear door child safety locks enhance child passenger safety. Security features include an antitheft alarm with engine immobilizer and SmartKey with panic button. The advanced tire pressure monitoring system keeps drivers informed of tire conditions, and a minispare tire provides added security on journeys.
Mercedes-Benz stands behind the GL 2013 with a new vehicle 4-year/50,000 mile warranty and a 24-hour roadside assistance program. The vehicle also includes an owner information kit, Mercedes-Benz maintenance system, and a vehicle tool kit for added convenience.
Optional Packages to Enhance Your GL 2013
For those seeking to personalize their Mercedes-Benz GL 2013, a range of optional packages were available to further enhance comfort, technology, and aesthetics.
Premium 1 Package
The Premium 1 Package added a host of desirable features, including an iPod/MP3 media interface for enhanced connectivity, the advanced COMAND system with hard-drive navigation & voice control, and SiriusXM Radio for a wider range of entertainment options. Convenience is elevated with auto-dimming side and rearview mirrors and power folding mirrors. The interior ambiance is enhanced by multi-color ambient lighting, and front seat comfort is upgraded with heated 10-way power memory front seats including power 4-way lumbar support.
Premium 2 Package
Building upon the Premium 1 Package, the Premium 2 Package added even more luxury and convenience. This package included all contents of Premium 1, plus a premium harman/kardon LOGIC7® surround-sound system with Dolby Digital 5.1 for an immersive audio experience. KEYLESS-GO provides keyless entry and start, while a lockable rear storage compartment adds security for valuables. Soft-close doors further enhance the sense of luxury.
Lighting Package
The Lighting Package focused on enhanced visibility and aesthetics, featuring a headlamp cleaning system, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, and Bi-xenon headlamps w/Active Curve Illumination & corner illuminating lamps for optimized nighttime driving.
Parking Assist Package
The Parking Assist Package made maneuvering in tight spaces easier with PARKTRONIC w/Active Parking Assist and Surround view, providing a comprehensive view of the vehicle’s surroundings.
Driver Assistance Package
For advanced safety and driver assistance, the Driver Assistance Package included DISTRONIC PLUS with PRE-SAFE® Brake, Active Blind Spot Assist, and Active Lane Keeping Assist, offering a suite of technologies to enhance safety and reduce driver workload.
Lane Tracking Package
The Lane Tracking Package offered core safety features including Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, focusing on lane safety and awareness.
Appearance Package
The Appearance Package enhanced the vehicle’s exterior with 20″ 10-spoke wheels, illuminated running boards, and dual chrome-tipped exhaust outlets for a more striking visual presence.
On- and Off-Road Package
For drivers seeking enhanced capability, the On- and Off-Road Package provided Adaptive Damping System, a two-stage transfer case with reduction gear, longitudinal differential lock, six transmission settings, and underride protection, making the GL 2013 more versatile in various terrains.
Standalone Options for Further Customization
Beyond packages, a variety of standalone options allowed buyers to further tailor their Mercedes-Benz GL 2013 to their specific preferences. These included individual options like KEYLESS-GO, 20″ 10-spoke wheels, a wood/leather multifunction steering wheel or heated multifunction steering wheel, and the Active Curve System. For enhanced comfort, heated/active ventilated front seats and a power tilt/sliding panorama sunroof were available. Practical options included a trailer hitch with a 7,500 lbs. towing capacity, 3-zone automatic climate control and rear air conditioning, and illuminated brushed aluminum running boards with rubber studs. Entertainment options extended to a Rear Seat Entertainment System and pre-wiring for future installation. Features like Easy-entry (power 2nd row release), driver and passenger multicontour seats with massage, and heated rear seats further enhanced passenger experience. Interior trim options included Burl Walnut Wood Trim, designo Upholstery w/DINAMICA headliner, and designo Black Piano Lacquer Wood Trim, and a designo Wood/leather multifunction steering wheel.
Special Order Options and Aesthetic Choices
For a truly bespoke Mercedes-Benz GL 2013, special order options were available, including unique interior color combinations like Auburn Brown/Black Leather, Almond Beige/Black Leather, and Grey/Black Leather. Trim choices extended to Aluminum Trim, Anthracite Poplar Wood Trim, and Brown Satin Ash wood trim. Practical additions included a Heated Windshield Washer Reservoir, Black Headliner, Adaptive Damping System (ADSII), and a 2nd row seat pass through. For enhanced interior comfort and convenience, options like Lower dashboard in MB-Tex and Rear side window sunshades were offered. Advanced technology options included Nightview Assist Plus and a premium Bang & Olufsen Sound System.
The Mercedes-Benz GL 2013 offered a range of paint colors, including classic shades like Black, Obsidian Black, Arctic White, and metallic options such as Steel Grey, Iridium Silver, Lunar Blue, and more distinctive colors like Cinnabar Red, Pearl Beige, Dakota Brown, and Diamond White. Upholstery choices included durable and comfortable MB-Tex in Black, Almond Beige, and Grey, as well as luxurious leather options in Black, Almond Beige, and Grey.
In conclusion, the Mercedes-Benz GL 2013 was a highly customizable luxury SUV, offering a comprehensive suite of standard features and a wide array of optional packages and standalone options to cater to diverse needs and preferences. Its combination of comfort, performance, safety, and technology solidified its position as a leading vehicle in its class.
