Highs More off-road capable than expected, roomy for first- and second-row occupants, tech-centric interior dazzles.
Lows Ride could be smoother, optional third row is too cramped, Mercedes nickel-and-dimes shoppers with the most enticing features.
Verdict The three-pointed star on the GLE’s grille broadcasts its reputation, but that’s not enough to justify its upcharge over less prestigious rivals.
Overview
For people who shop based on bougie brands, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE-class is the mid-size SUV with designer credentials. Never mind that it does little else to differentiate itself from less expensive rivals such as the Genesis GV80 and Volvo XC90. For some, only a Mercedes will do, and for those types, the GLE will satisfy. The cabin is nicely equipped and roomy—except in the optional third row. Mercedes also packs the GLE with modern features destined to keep tech fanatics happy, including a wall of displays festooned on the dashboard. The entry-level turbocharged four-cylinder engine is punchy enough for most people, but there’s also a turbo six-cylinder and a twin-turbo V-8 for those willing to sacrifice fuel efficiency for quickness. The GLE offers more than a semblance of off-road capability, too, with options such as an adjustable air suspension giving it more adventure-ready cred than other luxury SUVs.
After driving two of the three available powertrains, we'd suggest sticking with the entry-level turbocharged four-cylinder GLE350 model. Even though it's the least powerful option, it moves the GLE with enough authority to satisfy most drivers, and it returned the best fuel economy in our testing. With the money saved by selecting the base model, we'd splurge on the Premium package (Burmester audio system, 360-degree camera, and 115-volt household-style power outlet) as well as the Warmth and Comfort package (heated front armrests and upper door panels). We'd also add heated seats in the second row and four-zone climate control, both of which are standalone options.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Models wearing the GLE350 badge are powered by a 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine with either rear- or all-wheel drive (4Matic in Mercedes parlance) and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Stepping up to the GLE450 brings standard all-wheel drive and a 362-hp powertrain that consists of a turbocharged inline-six and a 48-volt hybrid system. The GLE350 we tested took 6.6 seconds to reach 60 mph, and the six-cylinder GLE450 managed a 5.3-second time. While the souped-up Mercedes-AMG GLE53 (reviewed separately) brings even more heat, the Benz-branded GLE580 represents the most powerful and expensive non-AMG model. The 48-volt system combines with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 to make up to 504 horsepower. Every GLE can be outfitted with an advanced air-suspension system that can lean into corners and even wiggle itself loose if the driver gets it stuck in sand or mud. ...
Lows Ride could be smoother, optional third row is too cramped, Mercedes nickel-and-dimes shoppers with the most enticing features.
Verdict The three-pointed star on the GLE’s grille broadcasts its reputation, but that’s not enough to justify its upcharge over less prestigious rivals.
Overview
For people who shop based on bougie brands, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE-class is the mid-size SUV with designer credentials. Never mind that it does little else to differentiate itself from less expensive rivals such as the Genesis GV80 and Volvo XC90. For some, only a Mercedes will do, and for those types, the GLE will satisfy. The cabin is nicely equipped and roomy—except in the optional third row. Mercedes also packs the GLE with modern features destined to keep tech fanatics happy, including a wall of displays festooned on the dashboard. The entry-level turbocharged four-cylinder engine is punchy enough for most people, but there’s also a turbo six-cylinder and a twin-turbo V-8 for those willing to sacrifice fuel efficiency for quickness. The GLE offers more than a semblance of off-road capability, too, with options such as an adjustable air suspension giving it more adventure-ready cred than other luxury SUVs.
After driving two of the three available powertrains, we'd suggest sticking with the entry-level turbocharged four-cylinder GLE350 model. Even though it's the least powerful option, it moves the GLE with enough authority to satisfy most drivers, and it returned the best fuel economy in our testing. With the money saved by selecting the base model, we'd splurge on the Premium package (Burmester audio system, 360-degree camera, and 115-volt household-style power outlet) as well as the Warmth and Comfort package (heated front armrests and upper door panels). We'd also add heated seats in the second row and four-zone climate control, both of which are standalone options.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Models wearing the GLE350 badge are powered by a 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine with either rear- or all-wheel drive (4Matic in Mercedes parlance) and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Stepping up to the GLE450 brings standard all-wheel drive and a 362-hp powertrain that consists of a turbocharged inline-six and a 48-volt hybrid system. The GLE350 we tested took 6.6 seconds to reach 60 mph, and the six-cylinder GLE450 managed a 5.3-second time. While the souped-up Mercedes-AMG GLE53 (reviewed separately) brings even more heat, the Benz-branded GLE580 represents the most powerful and expensive non-AMG model. The 48-volt system combines with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 to make up to 504 horsepower. Every GLE can be outfitted with an advanced air-suspension system that can lean into corners and even wiggle itself loose if the driver gets it stuck in sand or mud. ...
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Motor