Built in the USA, the Mercedes Benz GL450 operates in total grace amidst its hefty seven adult passenger, full size sport utility vehicle presence.

In a comparison alongside the other full-size, American made SUV’s currently on the market, the GL450 handles majestically in terms of agility and maneuverability. Add to that features such as 4Matic all wheel drive, which  gives the advantage of traction regardless of the season and Electronic Stability Control adding the further assurance of accident prevention, whether the driver’s attention is being diverted, or not. The GL is further equipped with Trailer Stability Assist whereby sensors monitor trailer sway and oscillations and intervene with the front brake applications to stabilize the vehicle. Sure, other manufacturers now offer similar safety features. They just don’t handle with the grace of the performance driven engineering Mercedes delivers. In other words, you really do get what you pay for.

With a starting price tag of $61,950, the GL450 includes offers 7,500-lbs of towing ability that’s perfect for weekend outings. Beneath the hood, a 335 horsepower 4.6 liter V8 engine with a seven speed transmission delivers 13 miles per gallon city, 18 miles per gallon on the highway. Other choices include the  $60,950 GL350 BlueTEC, with a 210 horsepower, 3.0 liter clean diesel burning V6 that’s rated at 17/21 miles per gallon, or the “Mack Daddy,” $84,450 top of the line GL550, with a 382 horsepower, 5.5 liter V8 engine yielding 12/17 miles per gallon. 

Passengers will love the simplicity of countless luxury features including powered split third row seats that rise and fall with the flip of a switch, as well as a feather light second row seats that folds up and down for easy third row passenger access. Power for playing is available to rear seat passengers who can work in between being entertained on the factory rear seat entertainment system. For the driver, iPod integration affords the ability to remain focused on what’s ahead, by controlling the music through the big, bold monitor, or the steering wheel controls.

With its upswept lines, bold dual exhaust tail pipes, a luxuriously rugged front view with crystal clear housing to conceal the Xenon headlights above the LCD lights, which are the new symbol of exclusivity—GL’s presence is Mercedes all the way. So, if size matters, this one’s for you!