Mercedes-Benz GLE

Mercedes-Benz GLE Quick Review

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is a large and handsome SUV which is best identified by its chunky C-pillar and wraparound rear glass. The GLE's cabin is...

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is a large and handsome SUV which is best identified by its chunky C-pillar and wraparound rear glass. The GLE's cabin is large and airy and there's lots of room for rear-seat passengers to spread out thanks to its long-wheelbase layout. Seat comfort is good, with the six-cylinder versions even getting a power-adjusted second row, and there's a substantial amount of boot space available. Infotainment is courtesy Merc's MBUX touchscreen system, which looks good and is easy to operate. Six-cylinder models even get a superb sounding Burmester hi-fi audio system. The Mercedes-Benz GLE range starts with the GLE 300d, powered by a 245hp, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine. This misses out on some equipment and power is just about sufficient, but the lower price it's offered at makes it a tempting offer and this will likely be the variant of choice for most. The six-cylinder 400d offers effortless performance and surprising refinement and is the one to go for if money is no object. The 450 is a six-cylinder petrol paired with an ISG that adds 22hp and 250Nm of boost under hard acceleration. If refinement is priority, this is the one for you. Ride comfort is pleasant across the board; although the GLE 300d, which sits on steel springs (and smaller 19-inch wheels), misses the added plushness offered by the 400d and 450’s air suspension. That said, none of the cars offer adaptive suspension so the ride quality can't be firmed up for better agility. As a result, the GLE is nice to steer but isn't what you would call 'sporty'.