The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL550 wasn’t just another SUV; it was crowned Motor Trend’s SUV of the Year. Spending a week immersed in this vehicle, especially the top-of-the-line GL550, provides a unique perspective on its capabilities and luxury. While initial tests explored its city-centric features like parking assist and ride quality on urban roads, the true essence of the GL550 lies beyond the city limits. This review delves into a comprehensive exploration of the GL550, examining its performance, comfort, and overall value proposition for discerning SUV buyers.
Driving Dynamics and Engine Performance
Priced starting at $86,900, with our test model reaching a substantial $108,830, the Mercedes-Benz GL550 commands a premium. However, this price tag translates into an undeniably rewarding driving experience. Having navigated the NY-DC route in numerous vehicles, the GL550 stood out for its unparalleled comfort. Even the initial 45 minutes spent in Manhattan’s rush hour traffic, inching towards the Holland Tunnel, were rendered bearable thanks to features like the massage seats and seamless iPod integration.
Once on the open road, the GL550 truly shines. The 4.6-liter V8 biturbo engine delivers impressive acceleration both from a standstill and at highway speeds. With 429 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, the SUV exhibits robust power, although a minor delay between pedal input and engine response is noticeable. Whether cruising at 30 mph or effortlessly maintaining 80 mph, the ride quality is remarkably smooth, giving a sensation of gliding rather than driving. Fuel economy, as expected for a vehicle of this size and power, isn’t exceptional. The GL550 is rated at 13 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway, figures that aligned with our observed average of 17.5 mpg over 623 miles, primarily on highways. The generous fuel tank capacity is a boon for long journeys, ensuring fewer stops. Even with half a tank upon leaving DC, the low fuel indicator only illuminated upon reaching New York, with an estimated 75 miles of range remaining.
Interior Comfort and Luxurious Features
The GL550 is replete with the opulent amenities expected in a 2013 luxury SUV. Heated and cooled seats are standard, and the massage function, while appreciated, was described by one passenger as “more like an awkward back-jabbing than a massage,” suggesting individual preferences may vary. A standout feature is the 360-degree camera system, providing an overhead view of the vehicle’s surroundings. This is invaluable for parking and maneuvering in tight spaces. Proximity sensors alert the driver to nearby obstacles, which is helpful on highways but can become overly sensitive and frequent in dense urban environments like Manhattan.
Audio quality is delivered via a Bang & Olufsen sound system, a high-end setup that might be somewhat underutilized when playing satellite radio or standard Bluetooth audio from smartphones. The system incorporates Acoustic Lens Technology, featuring “lenses” designed to optimize in-car acoustics, as pictured above. For second-row passengers, dual screens are available; however, third-row occupants miss out on this feature. This could be a point of contention for larger families who frequently utilize all three rows. While we focused on the front-row experience, reviews like Autoblog’s 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL550 review confirm ample leg and headroom even for adults in the third row, making it a genuinely spacious SUV.
Navigation and System Usability: Areas for Improvement
Despite its many strengths, the GL550 does have shortcomings, particularly in its navigation and entertainment system. The system’s interface is far from intuitive and can be cumbersome to operate. Even after a week of daily use, simple tasks like changing radio stations remained confusing. The abundance of buttons contributes to the complexity. Like many vehicles of its era, the voice recognition system is disappointing. It is slow, rigid in its command structure (requiring “1-3-3-1” for 1331 instead of “thirteen thirty-one”), and struggled with natural language commands, failing to understand “Corcoran Street.” While not deal-breakers, these usability issues are significant. A well-designed, intuitive system is crucial for minimizing driver distraction, allowing focus to remain on the road. The GL550’s system, unfortunately, demands considerable attention, potentially increasing distracted driving.
Final Verdict: Luxury and Capability at a Premium
At nearly $110,000 when fully equipped, the GL550 is undeniably a significant investment. However, for luxury car buyers seeking a vehicle that projects prestige, delivers potent performance, and offers an exceptionally comfortable and feature-rich ride for the whole family, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL550 remains a compelling choice. It masterfully blends luxury and capability, making it an ideal SUV for those who prioritize a premium driving and passenger experience, despite a few technological interface drawbacks.
