Review
Mercedes GLE SUV
Mercedes recently changed the naming of its SUV models. From now on, all these models will start with a G, referring to the legendary G-Class. The second letter is an L, followed by a third letter referring to the equivalent in the passenger car range. We drove the new GLE SUV. This is the successor to the very popular ML and the equivalent of the E-Class within the SUV range.
engines
In terms of diesel engines, you can choose from three models. The entry-level version is the GLE 250 d 2WD with a base price of 55,418 euros. We drove the GLE 250d 4MATIC. This GLE has four-wheel drive (4MATIC) and is available from 58,201 euros. Both models are equipped with a 2,143 cc diesel engine with four cylinders that delivers a power of 204 hp and a torque of 480 Nm (2 WD) to 500 Nm (4Matic). The top speed is around 210 km/h and acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 8.6 seconds. The GLE in this engine feels powerful and potent, but not really sporty. Very comfortable. If you want a little more power, there is the GLE 350 d 4MATIC from 60,863 euros. The beating heart of this GLE is a 3-liter V6 with a power of 258 hp and a torque of no less than 620 Nm. This will get you there in 7.1 seconds. at 100 km/h and you can continue to a top speed of 225 km/h.
All diesel models are equipped as standard with a nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission. You read that right, those are nine gears. This gearbox shifts extremely smoothly and quickly through the different gears. After the SPEEDSHIFT gearbox from AMG on a GLA, this is already the best gearbox we have driven so far.
In the petrol range you can choose from 4 models, including 2 AMGs. All four of these are equipped with four-wheel drive. As an entry-level car, there is the GLE 400 4MATIC from 62,920 euros with a 3-liter V6 petrol engine with a power of 333 hp. Then you have the GLE 500 4MATIC with a base price of 79,981 euros. This is powered by a powerful V8 with a capacity of 4663 cc. The GLE 500 has a power of 435 hp and spits out a torque of no less than 700 Nm.
In the AMG variants we find a 5.4-liter V8. In the GLE 63 4MATIC SUV (not to be confused with the coupe) this produces 557 hp and 700 Nm of torque. In 4.3 sec. you go from 0-100 km/h. That is as fast as, say, a BMW M3 and that for a car that weighs 2.3 tons. There is a second variant of the AMG, the “S”. This one gives 585 hp and 760 Nm and goes to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. The entry price for an AMG is 114,587 euros.
The GLE is also the first SUV model from Mercedes-Benz that is available as a Plug-In Hybrid. The GLE 500 e has a system power of 442 hp and according to Mercedes you can drive a distance of up to 30 km completely electrically. The hybrid is available from 76,956 euros.
DYNAMIC SELECT: up to six driving modes
Depending on the driver’s preference and the needs of the terrain on which the GLE is located, you can change the car’s settings via Dynamic Select. This is possible via a rotary knob on the center console where you can choose from four to six driving programs. These programs change the characteristics of, among other things, the engine and gearbox. SPORT you choose a sporty and dynamic setting. In COMFORT the ride for the driver is made as pleasant and comfortable as possible. On snow and ice you choose the SLIPPERY setting and in INDIVIDUAL you can personalize the settings. In the 4MATIC models you can also choose the OFFROAD driving program. If you take the optional “Off-Road” package, you have an “OFFROAD+” setting in Dynamic Select for even more options for off-road driving.
Optional air suspension
Our test car was equipped with the optional AIRMATIC air suspension with adaptive damping system (ADS) and level control. This system provides a buttery smooth ride on most surfaces. We did not immediately go racing with the test car, but the ride was also extremely comfortable on less smooth roads with potholes and level differences. Thanks to this system, the GLE will adjust the damping on each wheel depending on, among other things, the condition of the road surface. The adaptive shock absorber adjustment ensures that the GLE does not roll or rock when braking and cornering.
Conclusion
Even under its new name, the GLE is an SUV that will set the tone in the luxury segment. The GLE 250 d feels sufficiently powerful and muscular and the nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission is best in class in our opinion. With the optional air suspension you get maximum driving comfort and thanks to the flexibility of dynamic select, the GLE can handle any terrain.
Johan De Haes
Test driver
