I don't get it. I don't see the GL450 as a direct Cadillac Escalade challenger. That's the job of the GL550. Let's not forget there's a pointless AMG version probably in the making too.
And why is the article criticizing the GL450's horsepower output? Are people so spoiled these days and think that a hefty 2+ ton SUV needs more horsepower for the sake of reaching 60 mph in 4.6 seconds?!
The GL450 is "overpowered", I think that's a fact. So is the Escalade. A GL320 CDI has more than enough power for real-world driving, an enjoyable driving at that. The GL420 CDI, GL450 and GL550 are nothing more but gas-guzzlers. Pointless. I realize there's a market for this and MB like all car companies is reacting to it. But these automotive journalists get on my nerves sometimes.
I've seriously seen them complain about the 0-60 time of ECONOMY CARS. Or how this SUV isn't good on the race track. Unbelieveable...