Mercedes-Benz GLE
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Mercedes-Benz GLE

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE

Pros: Good range of engine choices, including a diesel; classy, well-finished cabin; quietness; blistering acceleration in high-performance GLE63 models

Cons: Non-diesel models are thirsty for premium gasoline, especially GLE63; high prices on upper trim levels; some complicated controls

CG Says: The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is a revised version of Mercedes’ M-Class midsize SUV with a new name. Styling has been refreshed and there is a new “coupe” bodystyle. The coupe is a 4-door fastback version that sacrifices rear headroom and cargo space for style. Also new is a plug-in hybrid GLE550e model that is available in states with a Zero Emission Vehicle requirement. The GLE550e has a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine and an electric motor with a combined horsepower of 436. GLE-Class is very refined, solidly built, and pleasant to drive. High points include the comfortable, well-finished interior and excellent powertrains. Think of the high-performance AMG GLE63 and GLE63 S (which boasts a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 with 550 or 577 horsepower and is EPA rated at 13-14 mpg city and 17-18 mpg highway) as a suede- and leather-lined cruise missile. It commands a significant price premium, but it is arguably the most well rounded high-power luxury SUV on the market with its admirable blend of performance, comfort, and refinement. Other engine choices include a 200-horsepower diesel 4-cylinder, a 302-horsepower V6, and a turbocharged V6 that develops 329 hp in the GLE400 or 362 hp in the AMG GLE450 coupe. The long list of available options can quickly raise the sticker’s bottom line, but GLE-Class is a fine premium midsize SUV that deserves serious consideration.

The Facts
Class Premium Midsize SUV
Body Style(s) 4-door wagon, 4-door hatchback
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive
Manufacturer Mercedes-Benz
Nation of Manufacture USA
Base Prices GLE350 wagon: $51,100
AWD GLE350 wagon: $53,600
AWD GLE300d wagon: $52,500
AWD GLE400 wagon: $64,600
AWD AMG GLE450 coupe: $65,100
AWD GLE550e wagon: $65,850
AWD AMG GLE63 wagon: $99,950
AWD AMG GLE63 S wagon: 107,100
AWD AMG GLE63 S coupe: $109,300

Base Engine
3.5-liter V6
Horsepower
302
Std. Transmission
7-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
17-18
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
22-24

Optional Engine
diesel 2.1-liter 2.1-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
200
Std. Transmission
7-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
23
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
30

Optional Engine
turbocharged 3.0-liter V6
Horsepower
329 (GLE400) 362 (AMG GLE450)
Std. Transmission
7-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
17-18
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
22-23

Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE63
2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE63
2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe
2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE coupe
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