From automatically correcting
for crosswinds, to brief moments of autonomous driving, to sensing that
you’re about to fall asleep at the wheel, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL SUV
offers virtually every technology aid you’ve heard about. There may be
no car better suited for long distance travel than the new GL, thanks to
the comfy air suspension and whispery diesel engine that carries you
600 miles before refueling. But choose your tech and convenience options
wisely to keep the cost under $75,000. The only disappointment in the
new GL is the tiny LCD display and mediocre navigation system in a
vehicle so big.
Even the cheapest $63,000 GL350
comes with a raft of standard safety features, led by the new (for
Mercedes) Collision Prevention Assist, which warns if you’re about to
rear-end the guy in front, and, if you step on the brakes, the car will
control safe braking. Also new in the MB lineup, and standard, is
crosswind stabilization. It corrects for gusts of wind sweeping off a
bridge or mountain pass.
