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 M-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: $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 |
