2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE

New for 2016

The GLE is an all-new model that replaces the M-Class.

Name Dropper

The original Mercedes-Benz M-Class helped define the luxury SUV when it was launched in 1997. Change is constant, though, and for 2016 Mercedes-Benz is replacing the M-Class with a completely redesigned SUV called the GLE. It takes the luxury brand's years of SUV experience and adds the latest technology to create a package that’s sure to become a class leader.

Powertrains and Performance

There are few SUVs that offer more powertrain options than the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE. There are no less than five to choose from, ranging from fuel efficient to high performance.

The GLE350 model features a 3.5-liter V6 with 302 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. All GLE models come with seven-speed automatic transmissions; the GLE350 is available with either rear-wheel drive or Mercedes’ innovative 4MATIC® all-wheel drive, but all other models are all-wheel drive only.

A step up both numerically and quantitatively from the GLE350 is the GLE400 4MATIC®. This model sports a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that produces 329 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. 

One of two powertrain options focused on fuel economy is the plug-in hybrid setup offered in the GLE550e 4MATIC®. It teams the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 used in the GLE400 4MATIC® with an electric motor for a combined 436 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque.

It would disappointing for a vehicle with two “e's” in its name to not be able to drive on electric power. Thanks to its onboard lithium-ion battery pack, the GLE550e doesn’t disappoint with an estimated electric-only range of 18.6 miles.

Another fuel-efficient option is the diesel GLE300d BlueTEC® 4MATIC®. This model comes with a 2.1-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 201 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. That may not sound like a lot in such a big SUV, but Mercedes-Benz says the diesel will still be able to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds.

Performance won’t be the main attraction of the GLE300d when it arrives in showrooms, though. The diesel engine’s fuel economy reaches 22 mpg, and diesels are known to exceed their EPA-rated highway ratings in real-world driving.* 

Heading in the opposite direction of the diesel and plug-in hybrid GLE models is the GLE63 AMG® 4MATIC®. This is a performance model from the Mercedes-Benz AMG® tuning division, and it packs a 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8.

The standard GLE63AMG® has 550 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to jump from 0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, and reach an (electronically-limited) top speed of 155 mph. If that’s not enough, the GLE63AMG® S 4MATIC® has 577 hp and 561 lb-ft, shaving 0.1 second off the 0 to 60 mph time. Top speed remains the same 155 mph as the non-S GLE63 AMG®.

Features and Trims

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE is a five-door, five-passenger SUV. When it arrives in showrooms this summer, it will be available in both a traditional body style and as a low-roof “coupe.” The SUV pricing starts at $51,100.**

The GLE offers a long list of standard features, including an engine start-stop feature, multifunction steering wheel, Dynamic Select controller on the center console for adjusting vehicle parameters, infotainment system with 7-inch touchscreen, among other features.

The high level of standard equipment can be augmented with several option packages. The Comfort package adds an automatic liftgate, soft-close doors, and a rearview camera, while the Parking package includes a 360-degree camera and Active Parking Assist with Parktronic.

Other optional features include an LED Intelligent Light System, Magic Vision Control, a rear-seat entertainment system, and harman/kardon® and Bang & Olufsen premium audio systems.

For buyers looking to upgrade the styling as well as the tech, there’s also an AMG® Line trim package that adds special front and rear bumpers, 20-inch alloy wheels, MB-Tex man-made leather interior, sport steering wheel and pedals, and a model-specific gauge cluster with checkered-flag design.

Exterior/Interior

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE demonstrates its newness with exterior styling that blends traditional SUV toughness with the sophistication of Mercedes’ cars.

Features that make this model stand out as a GLE include the signature C-pillar with integrated rear window that dates back to the original M-Class from 1997, sculpted headlights with LED “eyebrows,” and a hood with two power domes. AMG® models also get a distinctive “A-wing” front bumper.

The nicely-detailed exterior is matched by the luxurious interior, which features an information screen neatly integrated into the dashboard, Mercedes-Benz COMAND® controller and touchpad on the center console, and air vents with classy silver surrounds.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, a full suite of airbags, Crosswind Assist, and Collision Prevention Assist Plus.

There are also several electronic driver aids available as optional additions. The Driving Assistance package Plus includes DISTRONIC PLUS® with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot, PRE-SAFE® brake with pedestrian protection, BAS® Plus with Cross-Traffic Assist, blind-spot assist, lane-keep assist, and PRE-SAFE® Plus.

Bottom Line

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE will pick up where its predecessor left off as a luxurious and capable SUV.

For more information, and to stay up to date on all the latest Mercedes-Benz GLE information, be sure to contact us online or visit Mercedes-Benz of Annapolis.

*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.

**Prices listed are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other dealer charges.

Image: Mercedes-Benz