Pros: Good range of engine choices; classy, well-finished cabin; quietness; blistering acceleration in high-performance GLE63 models
Cons: Thirsty for premium gasoline, especially GLE63; high prices on upper trim levels; some complicated controls
CG Says: For 2017, Mercedes-Benz GLE gains a new AMG GLE43 model with a 362-horsepower turbocharged V6 engine. The diesel-powered GLE300d has been dropped. The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is a revised version of Mercedes’ M-Class midsize crossover SUV with a new name. GLE is offered as a conventional wagon and in a “coupe” bodystyle. The coupe is a 4-door fastback version that sacrifices rear headroom and cargo space for style. The base GLE350 has a 302-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine. The AMG GLE43 has 362-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. A turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 is rated at 550 hp in AMG GLE63 and 577 in AMG GLE63 S. There is also 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. All engines are paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission—except the AMG GLE43 turbo 3.0-liter V6 which has a new nine-speed automatic. GLE350 offers both rear- and all-wheel drive, while all other models have standard all-wheel drive. Available features include park assist, surround-view cameras, LED headlights, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot alert, drowsiness monitor, and cross-traffic alert. 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 GLE63 S 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. 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.
| 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: $52,000 AWD GLE350 wagon: $54,500 AWD AMG GLE43 wagon: $67,150 AWD AMG GLE43 coupe: $69,650 AWD GLE550e Plug-in Hybrid wagon: $66,300 AWD AMG GLE63 wagon: $101,690 AWD AMG GLE63 S wagon: 108,840 AWD AMG GLE63 S coupe: $110,650 |
| Base Engine 3.5-liter V6 (GLE350) |
| Horsepower 302 |
| Std. Transmission 7-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 18 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 22-23 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (GLE43) |
| Horsepower 362 |
| Std. Transmission 9-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 17 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 23 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 (GLE63, GLE63 S) |
| Horsepower 550 (GLE63) 577 (GLE63 S) |
| Std. Transmission 7-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 13-14 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 17-18 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 3.0-liter V6/electric (GLE550e) |
| Horsepower 436 |
| Std. Transmission 7-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA Gas Engine Combined (mpg) 21 |
| EPA Electric Motor Combined (MPGe) 43 |
ROAD TESTS AND ADDITIONAL INFO
