Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019) Review

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019) At A Glance

3/5
Honest John Overall Rating
The German firm’s take on the large SUV was a reasonable effort and an improvement on the Mercedes ML that preceded it. But the Mercedes GLE falls short when compared with some exceptionally strong rivals.

+Surprisingly capable off-road. Luxurious cabin. Impressive V6 diesel.

-Ride can be choppy on poor roads. Boot space in hybrid models is poor. BMW X5 and Volvo XC90 offer better value for money.

Insurance Groups are between 41–50
On average it achieves 66% of the official MPG figure

The Mercedes GLE might have had a better start in life had it not launched right into the arrival of an all-new Volvo XC90. It also had the superb BMW X5 to contend with, plus the imminent introduction of the fifth-generation Land Rover Discovery. By any standards, that’s a tough crowd to live with, but the SUV has redeeming features in its smooth V6 diesel engine and decent off-road ability. Read on for our full Mercedes GLE review.

The Mercedes GLE replaced the Mercedes ML, with a heavily revised exterior, new engines and more safety kit as standard.

However, despite the new name, the Mercedes GLE was mechanically the same. That meant it suffered from the same problems as its predecessor, with poor value for money being its biggest pitfall.

All models get four-wheel drive as standard and the engine line-up includes the familiar 2.1-litre and 3.0-litre V6 diesels from the Mercedes ML line-up. However, used car buyers also have the choice of a petrol plug-in hybrid, which combines a 3.0-litre V6 with an electric motor to return 78g/km of CO2 and a claimed 76.4mpg. 

The 350d – powered by the excellent V6 diesel – is the best engine in the range, combining a hefty 258PS with good all-round refinement and quiet running at low speeds.

Not only is the power delivery seamlessly smooth, thanks to a nine-speed automatic transmission, but the V6 returns a nice rumble as you venture towards its maximum 620Nm of torque. Frugal drivers are also rewarded, with up to 44.1mpg and 169g/km of CO2 according to the claimed figures.

The plug-in hybrid improves economy and emissions further, offering an all-electric range of 18 miles. However, this 500e model is let down by a small boot, with its battery pack reducing storage from 690 litres to 480 litres. 

The interior is opulent though, with the dashboard dominated by a large infotainment screen atop a familiar Mercedes centre console. All models get deep, plush leather seats that are among the most comfortable around, while the infotainment system is easy to master, helped by a central touchpad.

The Mercedes GLE gets a decent level of equipment as standard and entry-level Sport models are fitted with heated front seats, a powered tailgate, rear privacy glass and a rear-view camera. The are also some useful safety systems, with a crosswind assist package and a warning collision warning system that will alert the driver if the car detects an oncoming object. 

Refined, comfortable and capable, the stylish Mercedes GLE added some much needed zest to the weary Mercedes ML formula, but some of the old faults remain, with an unsettled ride on rough roads and disappointing performance from the entry-level 2.1 diesel. 

The real problems start when you compare it with its rivals, though. Both the BMW X5 and Volvo XC90 are cheaper, more efficient and better value, which makes it difficult to justify the significant sum of money needed to obtain the Mercedes GLE’s star performer, the 350d.

Fancy a new Mercedes GLE? read our review here.

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019) handling and engines

Driving Rating
There’s a fine spread of engines offered in the Mercedes GLE, but its key rivals offer similar or better at less cost. And while it’s surprisingly nimble for such a large car, a bouncy ride is an annoyance on poor surfaces.

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019): Handling and ride quality

Although few will ever be taken off-road, the Mercedes GLE can be used as a full-fat 4x4 with the optional off-roading package. The system adds low-range gears, changeable ride heights and hill descent control, which will let the car plough through muddy fields and tackle steep inclines. 

On British roads, the Mercedes GLE works best with 19-inch wheels and adaptive air-suspension, although the ride is always on the firm side of comfortable. However, it corners better than the Mercedes ML ever did, with minimal body lean and an agile turn-in. 

The ride does have a tendency to become unsettled on harsh road surfaces, which means the car often bounces along.

For the most part, the Mercedes GLE hides its considerable weight well. It also manoeuvres impressively for such a large car and is nimble enough at low speeds, although its sheer size makes it a challenge to squeeze into multi-storey car parks or tight streets.

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019): Engines

The Mercedes GLE is available with four engines, with the familiar 2.1-litre and 3.0-litre diesels offered alongside a petrol plug-in hybrid.

There’s also an AMG 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 for those who require their 2.3-tonne SUV to rocket from 0-62mph in four seconds. 

The 2.1-litre diesel is the entry-level powertrain and powers the 250d. The engine is effectively the same as the one found in the old Mercedes ML, albeit with some slight improvements in economy and emissions. The four-cylinder engine provides 204PS.

On paper, the 250d will be the default choice for many looking for conservative performance and low running costs. But the turbocharged 2.1-litre engine is difficult to recommend due to a loud clatter at idle, poor refinement and flat performance.

With 500Nm of torque from 1600rpm, the engine pushes along at lower speeds with the necessary zip, but it’s no match for the six-cylinder diesel found in the entry-level BMW X5 or the Volvo XC90 D5. 

The 3.0-litre V6 – found in the 350d – was carried over from the Mercedes ML, and is by far the best diesel in the range, with plenty of power and a smooth, refined nature. Indeed, with 258PS and 620Nm of torque, the V6 provides all the grunt you’ll ever need, with ample acceleration for overtaking and refined motorway cruising.

It’s also extremely relaxed in the lower gears, while economy is reasonable. Yet, again, the Volvo XC90 D5 and BMW X5 xDrive30d offer similar performance for less money. 

Both the 250d and 350d are linked to a nine-speed automatic gearbox that is a big step up over the old 7G-Tronic gearbox. The gearbox also reduces engine noise, with the Mercedes GLE sitting at 2000rpm on the motorway, which makes even the 250d quiet at cruising speeds. 

The 500e plug-in hybrid combines a turbocharged 333PS V6 petrol with a 116PS electric motor to provide 480PS and impressive acceleration, with 0-62mph taking just 5.3 seconds.

The 500e has an all-electric range of 18 miles, and works extremely well, proving silent in electric mode, with a smooth transition from battery to petrol power.  

Thrill seekers can spec up to that AMG 5.5-litre V8 bi-turbo petrol engine, with a supercar rivalling 585PS that will fire the big SUV all the way to an electronically limited 155mph. 

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019): Safety

This generation of Mercedes GLE was not tested by Euro NCAP, but you are well looked after on the safety front. It comes with seven airbags as standard, a pop-up bonnet to protect pedestrians and automatic emergency braking.

You also get ESP traction and stability control, ABS anti-lock brakes, a reversing camera, Active Parking Assist and adaptive headlights. Upper trims levels gain a 360-degree parking camera.

There are Isofix child seat mounts in the two outer rear seats.

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019): Towing

All Mercedes GLE models of this era can tow an unbraked trailer of up to 750kg.

With a braked trailer, the limit depends on the model you choose. A hybrid version is limited to 2000kg, while the V6 diesel can haul up to 3500kg. With the 250d diesel, you’re restricted to a still useful 2950kg maximum.

Engine MPG 0-62 CO2
GLE 250 d 48 mpg 8.6 s 155–156 g/km
GLE 250 d AMG 48 mpg 8.6 s 156 g/km
GLE 300 d 36–37 mpg 7.2 s 162 g/km
GLE 350 d 43 mpg 7.1 s 179 g/km
GLE 350 d AMG 37 mpg 7.1 s 192 g/km
GLE 43 AMG 32–33 mpg 5.7 s 199–205 g/km
GLE 450 33–34 mpg 5.7 s 191–209 g/km
GLE 500e 76 mpg 5.3 s 84 g/km
GLE 500e AMG 76 mpg 5.3 s 84 g/km
GLE 63 AMG 24 mpg 4.2 s 276 g/km

Real MPG average for the Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

66%

Real MPG

17–42 mpg

MPGs submitted

164

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019) interior

Interior Rating
The cabin is a highlight of the Mercedes GLE, with plenty of space and an upmarket ambience. There’s none of the quality issues that had beset its Mercedes ML predecessor. However, the infotainment system trails those of key rivals.
Dimensions
Length 4816–4924 mm
Width 2141–2157 mm
Height 1760–1796 mm
Wheelbase 2915–2995 mm

Full specifications

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019): Practicality

The Mercedes GLE is luxurious and vast, with deep leather seats and acres of headroom and legroom for those in the front and rear.

In fact, few other SUVs can match it for cabin comfort, which is high praise indeed. However, we still think the Volvo XC90 is better.

The front seats get plenty of adjustment and higher trim models have a plethora of options, which include leather sports seats, heating for the rear seats and multi-contour finishes with a massage setting.

The Mercedes GLE will easily take five adults and all of the seats are reinforced with a wide base, plenty of back support and cushioned headrests.

General visibility is good, with the large windscreen and side windows ensuring a wide view of the road. Parking sensors are standard, along with a rear view camera which makes it simple to reverse, without hitting a wayward kerb.

The dashboard can feel a little overwhelming, with dozens of buttons and switches, but it’s easy to acclimatise to the logical and well-presented layout. We do think Mercedes could have dispensed with half a dozen buttons without impacting the operations of the cabin, though.

The back seats are almost as spacious as those found in the front, with lots of legroom, shoulder room and headroom, which should make the Mercedes GLE a comfortable car to carry the family in.

The 690-litre boot is bigger than that found in the BMW X5, but smaller than the 775-litre capacity of the Volvo XC90. However, the Mercedes GLE beats both of them for outright space, with 2010 litres on offer. That said, folding the rear seats flat takes a bit of work, with the base needing to be moved. 

Hybrid models are hindered on luggage space, with the battery situated in the rear. As a result, boot capacity falls to a disappointing 480 litres, which makes it 100 litres smaller than a Skoda Octavia hatch.

Getting to the load area is easy, though, thanks to the powered tailgate that lifts by the press of a button or via a sensor beneath the boot.

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019): Quality and finish

By the time the Mercedes GLE arrived in 2015, the firm had put its troubles with build quality well and truly behind it.

Where the first Mercedes ML appeared to be made from soggy cardboard, the Mercedes GLE has a stout, solid feel about it.

Some of the buttons in the centre console still work with a slightly cheap tap rather than a satisfying click, but most of the controls and materials have a classy, upmarket aura to them.

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019): Infotainment

The dashboard is dominated by an eight-inch colour infotainment screen, which is operated via a large dial in the centre console complete with a touchpad.

The screen is clear and the dial works well, but we found the touchpad to be awkward, with the pointer juddering each time you tried to lift your hand and place it back on the pad.

In comparison, the systems employed by Audi and BMW are better. 

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019) value for money

Value for Money Rating
Fuel economy is on a par with most of the Mercedes GLE’s rivals, with the hybrid version proving the cheapest to run – but costly to buy. As with most large SUVs, insurance and maintenance bills are likely to be hefty, too.

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019): Prices

Look for a nine-year-old Mercedes GLE with around 75,000 miles on the clock and you should expect to pay about £19,000.

For a car that’s three years younger and with 45,000 miles to its name, you’ll spend around the £26,000 mark, with the hybrid costing approximately £4000 more.

Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019): Running Costs

If you’re not bothered about the Mercedes GLE 43 AMG with its 372PS 3.0-litre turbo petrol motor, most of the range is comparable with key rivals.

Even the AMG claims 32.8mpg, although that’s more likely to be 24mpg in the real world.

The best of the lot is the 500e hybrid that claimed 76.4mpg officially, but that does require making the most of its electric driving range. A truer figure in regular use would be around 34mpg, according to our Real MPG data.

With the diesels, the 250d and 350d offer factory figures of 48mpg and 43mpg, which work out to 33mpg and 28mpg from our Real MPG information.

The hybrid Mercedes GLE emits 84g/km of carbon dioxide, so earlier models registered prior to 1 April 2017 qualify for free road tax. Cars put on the road after that date pay £180, which includes a £10 discount for hybrids.

The 250d and 350d pay £255 and £355 respectively for earlier versions, while cars registered after 1 April 2017 all stump up the flat rate of £190 for 12 months of road tax.

Looking after a Mercedes GLE at an official dealer will not be cheap, so it might be worth looking for a good independent specialist to lower the labour rate, while still using the right quality of replacement parts.

Getting the Mercedes GLE covered with insurance is, as with most large SUVs, not a cheap business, as the car sits in groups 41 to 50 (out of 50).

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Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019) models and specs

The Mercedes GLE Sport is the entry-level trim and gets 19-inch alloy wheels in Himalaya grey, Active Parking Assist with Parktronic and reversing camera, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, a choice of driving modes, powered tailgate, LED headlamps and rear privacy glass.

It also comes with an eight-inch display, DAB, heated front seats, leather upholstery, automatic climate control and a touchpad with multi-touch control.

The Mercedes GLE AMG Line adds 20-inch AMG alloy wheels, AMG body styling, air-suspension, ambient lighting, AMG floor mats, brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs and leather sports seats.

The Mercedes GLE Designo Line is the luxury version and includes parking assist with 360-degree camera, closing aid for doors and bootlid, panoramic electric sunroof with interior sun blind and running boards with rubber studs.

It also has heated rear seats, multi-contour front seats with massage function, memory function for front seats, temperature-controlled cup holders for driver and front passenger, plus a Harman Kardon Logic surround sound system.

Dimensions
Length 4816–4924 mm
Width 2141–2157 mm
Height 1760–1796 mm
Wheelbase 2915–2995 mm
Miscellaneous
Kerb Weight 2150–2465 kg
Boot Space 480–2055 L
Warranty 3 years
Servicing 12500–15500 miles
Costs
List Price £51,290–£101,955
Insurance Groups 41–50
Road Tax Bands A–M
Official MPG 23.9–76.4 mpg
Euro NCAP Safety Ratings
Adult -
Child -
Pedestrian -
Overall 5

On sale until October 2023

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
450 3.0 AMG Line Auto 4MATIC 7Seat 5dr £69,120 33.6 mpg 5.7 s
450 3.0 AMG Line Premium Auto 4MATIC 7Seat 5dr £73,185 33.6 mpg 5.7 s
450 3.0 AMG Line Premium Plus Auto 4Matic 7Seat 5dr £77,485 33.6 mpg 5.7 s

On sale until March 2022

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
GLE500e 3.0 AMG Ngt Edition Premium Plus Auto 4MATIC 5dr £70,475 76.4 mpg 5.3 s
GLE500e 3.0 AMG Night Edition Auto 4MATIC 5dr £67,680 76.4 mpg 5.3 s

On sale until January 2022

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
300d 2.0 AMG Line Auto 4MATIC 5Seat 5dr - 36.7 mpg 7.2 s
300d 2.0 AMG Line Auto 4MATIC 7Seat 5dr - 35.8 mpg 7.2 s
300d 2.0 AMG Line Premium Auto 4MATIC 5Seat 5dr - 36.7 mpg 7.2 s
300d 2.0 AMG Line Premium Auto 4MATIC 7Seat 5dr - 35.8 mpg 7.2 s
300d 2.0 AMG Line Premium Plus Auto 4Matic 5Seat 5dr - 36.7 mpg 7.2 s
300d 2.0 AMG Line Premium Plus Auto 4Matic 7Seat 5dr - 35.8 mpg 7.2 s

On sale until April 2019

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
GLE250d 2.1 AMG Ngt Edition Premium Plus Auto 4MATIC 5dr £57,815 47.9 mpg 8.6 s
GLE250d 2.1 AMG Night Edition Auto 4MATIC 5dr £55,020 47.9 mpg 8.6 s
GLE350d 3.0 AMG Ngt Edition Premium Plus Auto 4MATIC 5dr £63,130 36.7 mpg 7.1 s
GLE350d 3.0 AMG Night Edition Auto 4MATIC 5dr £60,335 36.7 mpg 7.1 s
GLE43 3.0 AMG Night Edition Auto 4MATIC 5dr £65,625 31.7 mpg 5.7 s
GLE63S 5.5 AMG Night Edition Auto 4MATIC 5dr £101,955 23.9 mpg 4.2 s

On sale until October 2018

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
GLE250d 2.1 AMG Line Auto 4MATIC 5dr £53,690 47.9 mpg 8.6 s
GLE250d 2.1 AMG Line Premium Auto 4MATIC 5dr £56,085 47.9 mpg 8.6 s
GLE250d 2.1 AMG Line Premium Plus Auto 4MATIC 5dr £57,385 47.9 mpg 8.6 s
GLE250d 2.1 Sport Auto 4MATIC 5dr £51,290 47.9 mpg 8.6 s
GLE250d 2.1 Sport Premium Auto 4MATIC 5dr £53,685 47.9 mpg 8.6 s
GLE250d 2.1 Sport Premium Plus Auto 4MATIC 5dr £54,985 47.9 mpg 8.6 s
GLE350d 3.0 AMG Line Auto 4MATIC 5dr £58,420 42.8 mpg 7.1 s
GLE350d 3.0 AMG Line Premium Auto 4MATIC 5dr £60,815 42.8 mpg 7.1 s
GLE350d 3.0 AMG Line Premium Plus Auto 4MATIC 5dr £62,115 42.8 mpg 7.1 s
GLE350d 3.0 Designo Line Auto 4MATIC 5dr £67,715 42.8 mpg 7.1 s
GLE43 3.0 AMG Auto 4MATIC 5dr £60,890 31.7 mpg 5.7 s
GLE43 3.0 AMG Premium Auto 4MATIC 5dr £63,285 31.7 mpg 5.7 s
GLE43 3.0 AMG Premium Plus Auto 4MATIC 5dr £64,585 31.7 mpg 5.7 s
GLE43 3.0 Designo Line Auto 4MATIC 5dr £70,185 31.7 mpg 5.7 s
GLE500e 3.0 AMG Line Auto 4MATIC 5dr £66,675 76.4 mpg 5.3 s
GLE500e 3.0 AMG Line Premium Auto 4MATIC 5dr £69,070 76.4 mpg 5.3 s
GLE500e 3.0 AMG Line Premium Plus Auto 4MATIC 5dr £70,370 76.4 mpg 5.3 s
GLE500e 3.0 Designo Line Auto 4MATIC 5dr £75,970 76.4 mpg 5.3 s
GLE63S 5.5 AMG Auto 4MATIC 5dr £96,995 23.9 mpg 4.2 s
GLE63S 5.5 AMG Premium Auto 4MATIC 5dr £99,990 23.9 mpg 4.2 s

On sale until November 2017

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
GLE43 3.0 AMG Auto 4MATIC 5dr £60,890 32.8 mpg 5.7 s
GLE43 3.0 AMG Premium Auto 4MATIC 5dr £63,285 32.8 mpg 5.7 s
GLE43 3.0 AMG Premium Plus Auto 4MATIC 5dr £64,585 32.8 mpg 5.7 s
GLE43 3.0 Designo Line Auto 4MATIC 5dr £70,185 32.8 mpg 5.7 s

On sale until April 2017

SUV
Version List Price MPG 0-62
GLE450 3.0 AMG Auto 4MATIC 5dr £58,400 32.8 mpg -
GLE450 3.0 AMG Premium Auto 4MATIC 5dr £60,795 32.8 mpg -
GLE450 3.0 AMG Premium Plus Auto 4MATIC 5dr £62,095 32.8 mpg -
GLE450 3.0 Designo Line Auto 4MATIC 5dr £67,695 32.8 mpg -

Model History

March 2015

Mercedes unveils GLE

The GLE is the new name for the previous M-Class. Across the available engine range, fuel consumption and emissions are reduced by 17 per cent on average compared with the predecessor model series.

The 204PS four-cylinder diesel model GLE 250 d offers superior performance with an all-time low fuel consumption for this class of vehicles. It is the world's first production full-size SUV with conventional drive that emits just 140g/km of CO2 with 52.3 mpg.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE 500e 4MATIC has CO2 emissions of just 78g/km (85.6 mpg). With a power consumption of 16.7 kWh/62 miles, the GLE 500e 4MATIC is capable of up to 18.5 miles of all-electric driving. Same plug-in hybrid system as S500e with 3.0-litre 333PS V6 turbo petrol engine and an electric motor. Combined output 442PS and 650Nm torque giving a 0-60 of just over 5 seconds.

In addition to the equally efficient and powerful four-cylinder diesel engine for the GLE 250 d and GLE 250 d 4MATIC models with an output of 204PS, the proven V6 diesel engine producing 258PS of power and a hefty torque of 620Nm is available in the GLE 350 d 4MATIC.

With the start of the new GLE generation, all diesel models will be equipped with the nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission as standard, for the first time also with the optionally available off-road reduction gear and inter-axle differential lock.

Following the introduction of the new naming logic, the successor of the successful Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG is now called the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC. The AMG 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 engine is even more powerful than before: the highly sporty S-Model is rated at 585PS. The chassis was completely revised to deliver even better driving dynamics and agility.

The DYNAMIC SELECT dynamic handling control system of the new GLE offers up to six drive programmes. In addition to the established settings INDIVIDUAL, COMFORT, SLIPPERY and SPORT, in the 4MATIC models the driver can choose the additional OFFROAD setting for mild terrain with the DYNAMIC SELECT controller on the centre console. If the GLE model is equipped with the optional Off-Road Engineering package, the OFFROAD+ setting is available.

In this setting, the off-road reduction gear and a 100% inter-axle differential lock come into play to generate high traction even in challenging terrain. This is further boosted by the expanded functions of the AIRMATIC air suspension with raised ride heights for a ground clearance of up to 285 millimetres and a fording depth of 600 millimetres. The reinforced underfloor panelling of this equipment variant protects important components against not so gentle contact with the ground.

The extensive range of standard equipment of the new GLE is based on the predecessor model, enhanced with new assistance systems such as Crosswind Assist and COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS. ECO start/stop function, the DYNAMIC SELECT controller on the centre console, the revised multifunction steering wheel as well as the Audio 20 CD infotainment system with 7-inch display andcommunications module for the use of Mercedes connect me servicesare also part of the standard delivery scope.

Freely combinable packages lend the GLE additional appeal. With the AMG Line exterior, the GLE has an even more dynamic and athletic appearance. The package comprises, among other things, special front and rear bumpers in the distinctive AMG styling and 50.8-cm (20-inch) AMG light-alloy wheels. Those who like things even more exclusive can combine this feature with the Night package, which features a high-gloss black radiator grille louvre and exterior mirror housings, for example. The line-up of options is rounded out by high-sheen black 50.8-cm (20‑inch) AMG light-alloy wheels.

The AMG Line interior transfers the sporty appearance to the interior with sports seats with ARTICO man-made leather upholstery (optional nappa leather), a black nappa leather multifunction sports steering wheel, an instrument cluster with distinct dial in chequered-flag design and brushed stainless-steel sports pedals with rubber studs.

What does the Mercedes-Benz GLE (2015 – 2019) cost?