Are you planning to purchase a new or used Mercedes Benz GLE? Well, if that is the case, then you are at the right place because in this article, there will be quite a lot to cover on this topic and we are going to learn all you need to know when it comes to the GLE model.
Buying a new or used car from Mercedes has never been more difficult. Nowadays their lineup is so large that you can’t even memorize the models. In the good old days of Mercedes Benz SUVs, we only had the ML and that was enough when you needed to learn which SUV was offered by Mercedes.
But nowadays you have the GL-class, GLC, GLE, and GLS. And all these naming conventions can be rather confusing for a lot of people. Luckily for you, since you are interested in the Mercedes Benz GLE, we know where to head up and cover the GLE model in-depth.
And since you are buying a Mercedes model, you really need to learn everything about it. Mainly because Benz is expensive when it comes to the purchase, as well as in terms of maintenance and repairs. But we are going to cover all you need to know.
First, we are going to learn what is the GLE model and its core concepts. Then, we will discuss the specs of the present generation of the GLE and learn more about the trims, engines, transmissions, and price. After that, we will cover some of the Mercedes Benz GLE problems and see what are the biggest concerns with this vehicle. So, if you want to learn more, follow along.
Mercedes GLE
Now let’s introduce ourselves to the Mercedes Benz GLE and learn more about the model in general. Let’s understand in which class of cars this model falls. Once you get this cleared out, you will be able to tell if this is the model for you or not. Now, let’s cover this quickly.
So, what is the Mercedes Benz GLE? The GLE is a mid-size SUV that is marketed and sold by Mercedes Benz since 2015.
It was at this point in history that Mercedes said, “I want the whole market” and created an SUV for each class of cars. Then we got the GLA, GLC, GLE, and GLS.
And the model that was renamed into the Mercedes Benz GLE was the ML. The ML was the model that was sold between 1997 and 2015.
After 2015 this model is known as the GLE. What is important about the GLE is to note that the latest generation was introduced in 2019 and is a really popular model.
Annually in the US, the GLE gets about 50,000 units sold. Which is a really respectable number. This is the case because the size of the model in terms of size is pretty much ideal for US roads.
Another interesting fact about the latest generation of the GLE is that it comes in an SUV and also in a coupe SUV variant. So, for the people that want something more sporty, the coupe option is perfect.
But the drawback is that you will get considerably less space for carrying cargo. As well as some of the taller passengers might struggle a bit while sitting in the rear. Now let’s discuss the specs of the Mercedes Benz GLE.
Mercedes GLE Specs
Now as we covered the basics when it comes to the Mercedes Benz GLE, we can slowly move on and discuss the specs of the model. What is worth noting is that when it comes to specs, we will stick to the latest generation only. But later on, when we are going to discuss the problems, we will also cover the problems with the previous model.
Nevertheless, the Mercedes Benz GLE is a mid-size SUV. This means that this vehicle falls in the mid-size category of cars and is basically based on the same platform as the E-Class Mercedes Benz.
This new generation of the GLE was introduced in 2019 and is produced as of 2022. The model is sold globally and is assembled in many factories throughout the world. But the US model is assembled in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. So, we can say that the GLE is not imported as other Mercedes Benz models but it is actually US-made.
Another thing that is interesting to note is that this model comes with 5-doors and most important is the fact that it comes both as a standard SUV, as well as as a coupe. The coupe version is specifically tailored for people that want to experience performance.
Although, performance models like the GLE 53 AMG and GLE 63 AMG are offered in both versions. So, it doesn’t matter if your preference is a standard SUV or a sports coupe SUV, you can get the AMG model with both of these body styles.
But what about the numbers and specs of the Mercedes Benz GLE? Well, more about the numbers, we are going to elaborate in the following chapters.
Mercedes Benz GLE Dimensions, Size, And Practicality
Now as we introduced ourselves to the GLE, we can slowly move on and dive into the specs of the Mercedes Benz GLE and see more about its dimensions and size.
What is interesting about this model is that it has a short wheelbase and also a long wheelbase variant. The shorter one is only 117.9 inches long in terms of wheelbase. While the long wheelbase is 121.1 inches long.
On the other hand, the overall length for the short wheelbase is 193.9 inches, while the long wheelbase is 198.4 inches. And if you often drive rear passengers, the long wheelbase model is recommended since your passengers will greatly benefit from that extra legroom in the rear.
In terms of width, the GLE is 76.7 inches wide and up to 84.9 inches wide with the rearview mirrors open. The height of the model is about 70.7 inches and the car weighs 4,696lbs. The height of the GLE is about 8.4 inches. Which makes it quite good in terms of off-roading. So, if you are an avid fan of off-roading, the GLE should handle some easier trails.
When it comes to practicality, the standard SUV version is really spacious and practical. This model has a trunk space of 33.3 cubic ft of cargo space behind the rear seats. Or 74.9 cubic ft when the rear seats are folded down.
Overall, the GLE is quite a spacious vehicle that has a lot to offer for people who need that extra space for carrying their weekly groceries. But more on the price, we are going to discuss later on in the article. Now let’s take a look at the interior and the features that you can get.
Mercedes GLE Interior
Now let’s take a look at the interior of the GLE. What this model has to offer in terms of trim levels and interior options? Well, the models that you can choose from are the GLE 350, which is the base version of the GLE.
Then there is GLE 450, which is the mid-trim, and then follows the GLE 580. In addition to the standard trim levels, there are also AMG versions. The AMG badge is only dedicated to high-performance models. Namely, the GLE 53 and the GLE 63 AMG.
What is worth noting is that there are two options for each of these models except for the AMG ones. And this is the standard 2WD and the optional AWD, also known as 4MATIC.
Even though people think that this is a 4WD system, in most applications it is only an AWD. This means that the driver cannot manually adjust when to enter 4WD but the computer decides when this is needed.
Nevertheless, when it comes to interior options, it really depends on how you opt out of options on your GLE. And options when it comes to this type of vehicle are endless.
You start from the base price and you build your dream GLE that can cost as much as $130,000 in some cases.
Even though the cheapest models come all with soft-touch materials on the interior and a premium feel. Maybe not as premium as the better-equipped models. But still, there is a night-and-day difference between the basic GLE and a fully loaded non-luxury SUV. Not to mention how big of a status symbol this Mercedes is. People just love these cars when they see them on the road.
Mercedes Benz GLE Engines And Transmissions
Now let’s take a look at the engine options that you can get with the Mercedes Benz GLE. What powertrain options are there? Let’s elaborate.
The base engine that you can get with the GLE 350 is the 2.0L inline-4 turbocharged engine. This engine produces 255hp and 273lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
The GLE 450 is the mid-tier model that comes with the 3.0L inline-6 that is turbocharged. This engine creates 362hp and 369lb-ft of torque. The transmission in this model is also the 9-speed automatic with overdrive.
The GLE 580 is a top-of-the-line model that comes with a 4.0L V8 engine. This engine is twin-turbocharged and creates 483hp and 516lb-ft of torque. The transmission in this engine is also the 9-speed automatic with overdrive.
The GLE63 also uses a 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine. But the difference is that this engine is tuned to 603hp and 627lb-ft of torque in the most powerful version available for the Mercedes Benz GLE.
Mercedes GLE MPG
Now let’s take a look at what type of MPG the GLE delivers to the table. Is this any good performer or not?
Well, the GLE is not particularly good in this aspect. But this is expected considering its weight. The 2.0L engine with 2WD gets 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The combined fuel economy is 22 mpg.
The 3.0L engine is even worse in this aspect. This model gets 20 mpg in the city, 25 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined.
But the worst performance in terms of fuel economy is dedicated to the 4.0L V8 engine in the GLE 580. This engine gets 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. The combined fuel economy is 18 mpg.
All models come with a 22.5-gallon gas tank. This big of a tank is needed in order for you to be able to drive long distances because if the gas tank is smaller, the visits to the gas station will be extremely frequent with the Mercedes Benz GLE.
Mercedes GLE Towing Capacity
Another aspect that we would like to discuss is the towing capacity of each of these models. Since a lot of owners that purchase these models want to tow trailers when they go on a vacation.
And in this aspect, the model performs rather well. The 2.0L engine can tow up to 5950lbs. Which is quite a lot when it comes to an engine of this size.
The 3.0L engine on the GLE 450 can tow even more. About 7,700lbs to be more exact.
The 4.0L engine found in the GLE 580 and the GLE 63 AMG perform quite the same. With a maximum towing rating of 7,700 lbs.
Still, they are crazy expensive though, if you want a capable towing machine on a budget, you might want to take a look at the Dodge Durango with the 5.7L engine. This model can tow up to 8,700lbs.
Which is the best in this mid-size class of SUVs. And no other SUVs, including the Mercedes Benz GLE, don’t come even close. But what about the safety of this model? Let’s elaborate more on that next.
Mercedes GLE Safety
Another important aspect that we are going to discuss is safety. Safety is important, as people say, safety is the number one priority. So, is the GLE considered to be a safe vehicle? Let’s find out.
The 2020 model of the GLE was reportedly tested by the IIHS. They gave the GLE model a perfect score. Also, this model got the Top Safety Pick+ award by the IIHS for 2022. So, we can say that this model is rather safe.
The only two tests where the model got an acceptable score were the test concerning the headlights. On this test, it only got an acceptable score. As well as the foot area where the model also got an “Acceptable” score. On the rest of the tests, the Mercedes Benz GLE model got only “Good” scores. Which is the highest grade possible.
Mercedes GLE Price
Now before we learn a bit more about the problems that this model has. Let’s take a look at the price and learn how expensive this model really is.
The base MSRP price for the GLE 350 is $57,200. The GLE 450 starts at $65,000, and the GLE 580 starts at $81,950.
The more exquisite models like the GLE 63 S Coupe start well over $117,850. And with options, this price can be driven even higher.
Remember that these are the MSRP prices. Prices after taxes, dealer fees, and registration can be much higher. And all these are variables depending on the model that you choose. But you can expect to pay anywhere between $2,000 to $6,000 extra on these expenses, especially for the high-end models where you have gas guzzler tax included.
But what about the problems of the Mercedes Benz GLE? Let’s find out more about that next.
Mercedes GLE Problems
Now let’s take a look at the Mercedes Benz GLE problems. Are there any major issues with this model? Let’s elaborate.
When it comes to the present generation of the GLE 350 that was introduced in 2019, we couldn’t find data on carcomplaints.com from people that owned this model.
Still, there were reports on the older model. Namely, there was a high-pitched noise from the exhaust on models produced from 2016 to 2018. This sound resembled a moaning noise. Which is rather unpleasant to hear every time you accelerate. In total, there are 3 complaints on this issue for the GLE 350.
There were also other reports of a strong mildew odor coming from the AC vents (it helps to know how to get mildew smell out of car), and noise coming from the door hinges while opening and closing the doors. Other issues were reported on the 2016 model for the steering wheel being too stiff at some points.
Another owner of the 2017 model reported that the low-beam headlights would often get too dim, preventing him from seeing at night. And this can be a safety hazard.
Also, one owner reported that the transmission would downshift all of a sudden at high speeds, and these downshifts are rather random and unexpected.
On the 2018 model, an owner reported that his sunroof has exploded all of a sudden.
Ford the GLE 450 model we found one report on the 2020 model year and this was concerned with the check engine light for an unknown reason. Probably some software bug with the vehicle. Either way, it was quite frustrating for the owner to have this problem twice in the same year on his Mercedes Benz GLE.
Alternatives
So, we have covered the Mercedes Benz GLE and we learned more about the specs, common problems, etc. Now we think it’s time to discuss a little bit about the alternatives that you can get. What are the alternatives to this model? Let’s elaborate.
The first alternative that would come to our mind when it comes to an alternative to the GLE is probably the other two German car brands BMW and Audi. More specifically, the BMW X5 and the Audi Q7. And they are perfect options that can replace this model.
But there are also other cheaper options for you out there. The Dodge Durango is one of them. This model with the 5.7L engine can tow up to 8,700lbs and deliver almost a truck-like performance.
Another good option is the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Grand Cherokee also has the same engines as the Durango and offers similar performance. Especially now with the new generation that was introduced recently.
Or if you still want luxury models, then you can check the new Genesis GV80, Porsche Cayenne, Lincoln Aviator, Range Rover Velar, or Volvo XC90.
Final Verdict
In this article, we have covered quite a bit when it comes to the Mercedes Benz GLE. First, we learned what this model is all about and learned that this model is the replacement for the ML class.
Then we discussed the specs of the GLE and learned the dimensions and size, engines and transmissions, fuel economy, safety, as well as price. Lastly, we discussed the problems that this model has.
Overall, not a very problematic model. It doesn’t have any major hurdles that will cost you a lot and most of these models are still under warranty since the new generation of the GLE was introduced recently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
What Is The Meaning Of 4MATIC
4Matic is a name that Mercedes-Benz gives to their 4WD and AWD models. Nowadays a vast number of 4Matics are AWD. This means that the system is predominantly RWD or FWD but the AWD will engage when the conditions on the road require it to do so.
How Much Is A Mercedes SUV
A proper mid-size SUV like the GLE is about $60,000. The GLC is cheaper. This model starts at $44,900 and is the cheapest SUV that you can buy from Mercedes right now.
What Country Makes Mercedes
Mercedes comes from Germany. But they have factories around the world. Including in the USA. Their factory in the USA is located in Vance, Alabama and this factory assembles the GLE model as well as the GLS.
Which Mercedes SUV Is The Best
The GLS is the most luxurious SUV that you can get from Mercedes Benz. But the most capable SUV that you can get from Mercedes is the G-Wagon. This is one of the best off-road SUVs that you can get right now.
What Is The Difference Between GLE 350 and GLE 450
The main difference is the engine. The 350 has a 2.0L inline-4 turbocharged engine. While the GLE 450 has a 3.0L inline-6 turbocharged engine. The GLE 450 is a more powerful model.
Does Mercedes GLE Have 3rd Row
Yes, you can option out a GLE with 3rd-row seating. And this will increase the capacity for up to 7 people. Which is good for people with large families that need some extra seating space.
Image Notes:
- Mercedes-Benz-GLE.png sourced from https://group-media.mercedes-benz.com/marsMediaSite/en/instance/ko.xhtml?oid=9267229&relId=1001&resultInfoTypeId=172&ajaxRequestsMade=3#toRelation
- Mercedes-Benz-GLE-1-1.jpg sourced from https://group-media.mercedes-benz.com/marsMediaSite/en/instance/ko.xhtml?oid=9267229&relId=1001&resultInfoTypeId=172&ajaxRequestsMade=3#toRelation
- Mercedes-Benz-GLE-2-1.jpg sourced from https://group-media.mercedes-benz.com/marsMediaSite/en/instance/ko.xhtml?oid=9267229&relId=1001&resultInfoTypeId=172&ajaxRequestsMade=3#toRelation
- Mercedes-Benz-GLE-3-1.jpg sourced from https://group-media.mercedes-benz.com/marsMediaSite/en/instance/ko.xhtml?oid=9267229&relId=1001&resultInfoTypeId=172&ajaxRequestsMade=3#toRelation
