Well the cat is out of the bag guys...I will be giving up my S550 for a new GL320CDI. Here is what I posted on MBWorld a short time ago:

I had not intended to announce this decision until I had a formal agreement with Greg at Westminster MB in Denver. But I have decided to shift gears and get into a GL320CDI (X164.)

Reason is very simple...I want to do some traveling in the west and many roads are gravel or two lane secondary roads which is not the best situation for a S550. In addition, my wife and I had owned wagon/diesel combos from MB before and I had a desired to get back into one. She is not here to experience either the S or the GL but would certainly approve...she loved the diesel wagons.

The GL as I said will be the diesel model in Obsidian Black with Ash Leather and all the options except for the RSE, hitch and heated seats. Build will be late March or early April with delivery in late April.

The S550 is absolutely the best MB I have owned since I started buying them in the mid-70's. I will miss some of the goodies and the ABC ride but test driving the GL450, I found the ride to be more car-like than SUV-like. 18 months of driving the S Class (W220 and W221) had been a pleasure and I look forward to my trips in the GL.

No groans or how could you remarks. Understand I like MB and want to experience all the models I can. Keep in mind I have not had a CLS, a CL or a Maybach....yet....