The 2017 GLE Benz marked a significant model year for the luxury SUV, continuing the legacy that began with the M-Class in 1998. This third-generation design offered a range of models to suit diverse preferences, from the efficient GLE350 to the high-performance AMG GLE63 S. Let’s delve into the details of the 2017 GLE Benz lineup, exploring pricing, key features, and specifications that made it a standout in its class.
2017 GLE Benz Model Lineup and MSRP
The 2017 GLE Benz offered a variety of models, each with its own powertrain and set of features. The starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the base models were as follows (excluding the $925 destination and delivery charge):
- GLE350: $52,000
- GLE350 4MATIC: $54,500
- GLE400 4MATIC: $65,650
- GLE550e 4MATIC (Plug-In Hybrid): $66,300
- Mercedes-AMG GLE43: $67,150
- Mercedes-AMG GLE63: $101,690
- Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S: $108,840
This broad price range reflected the spectrum of performance and luxury offered within the 2017 GLE Benz family.
Key Updates for the 2017 Model Year GLE Benz
The 2017 model year introduced several enhancements to the GLE Benz, refining both aesthetics and technology. Notable changes included:
- New Paint Options: Selenite Gray and Brilliant Blue were added to the exterior color palette, offering fresh aesthetic choices.
- Standard Rearview Camera: Enhancing safety and convenience, a rearview camera became a standard feature across all models.
- 4G LITE WiFi Hotspot: The addition of 4G LITE WiFi capability brought improved connectivity for passengers.
These updates ensured the 2017 GLE Benz remained competitive and appealing in the luxury SUV market.
Standard Feature Highlights Across the 2017 GLE Benz Range
Even at the base level, the 2017 GLE Benz was generously equipped with a range of standard features focused on comfort, safety, and convenience. These included:
- Heated front seats for enhanced comfort in colder climates.
- KEYLESS-START for effortless engine ignition.
- Remote start, allowing for pre-heating or pre-cooling of the cabin.
- Rear view camera (as mentioned in model year changes).
- Active Brake Assist, a safety feature designed to mitigate or prevent frontal collisions.
- Auto-dimming rearview and driver-side mirrors to reduce glare.
- 5 years of mbrace® services, with available upgrade packages for enhanced connectivity and features.
- PRE-SAFE® system, an anticipatory occupant protection system.
- Crosswind Assist, enhancing stability in strong crosswinds.
- Parking Pilot, assisting with parking maneuvers.
Stepping up to the GLE400 4MATIC and GLE550e 4MATIC models added even more standard luxuries, including:
- COMAND® Navigation with an 8-inch Color Display for advanced navigation and infotainment.
- Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto integration for seamless smartphone connectivity.
- Harman/kardon LOGIC7® sound system for premium audio experience.
- Lane Tracking Package, incorporating Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist for enhanced driver awareness and safety.
AMG Enhanced Models: GLE43, GLE63, and GLE63 S
For those seeking elevated performance, the AMG variants of the 2017 GLE Benz delivered exhilarating power and sporty dynamics.
The AMG GLE43 boasted:
- AMG-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo engine for potent performance.
- AMG-enhanced 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission for quick and smooth gear changes.
- AMG Performance 4MATIC for optimized traction and handling.
- AMG Sport Suspension based on AIRMATIC for a balance of comfort and sporty driving.
The top-of-the-line AMG GLE63 and AMG GLE63 S models featured even more aggressive specifications:
- Handcrafted AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo engine, delivering immense power.
- AMG SPEEDSHIFT® PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission, tuned for high performance.
- Parking Pilot and Parking Package.
- Surround view system for enhanced visibility during parking and maneuvering.
Optional Features for Personalization
The 2017 GLE Benz offered a wide array of optional features and packages, allowing buyers to customize their vehicles to their exact preferences. Some notable optional highlights included:
- Plug-In Hybrid technology (GLE550e).
- AIRMATIC® Package for adjustable air suspension.
- Premium Packages (1, 2, and 3) bundling popular comfort, convenience, and safety features.
- harman/kardon LOGIC7® sound system (available as optional on lower trims).
- Navigation updates for 3 years.
- COMAND® Navigation as a standalone option.
- SiriusXM® Satellite Radio with a trial subscription.
- 115V AC power outlet for powering devices.
- Lane Tracking Package components (Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist) available individually on some models.
- KEYLESS-GO® for enhanced keyless convenience.
- Apple CarPlay® as a standalone option.
- Rear-seat center-armrest pass-through, Rear side-window sunshades, and Heated/cooled front cupholders (part of packages).
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Active LED headlamps for enhanced nighttime visibility.
- Interior ambient lighting with illuminated door sills for a refined cabin ambiance.
- Driver Assistance Package, including advanced driver aids like Distance Pilot DISTRONIC®, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, PRE-SAFE® PLUS, and more.
- Parking Package with Parking Pilot and Surround View System.
2017 GLE Benz: At a Glance Specifications
To provide a clear comparison, here’s a table summarizing key specifications across several 2017 GLE Benz models:
| GLE350 / GLE350 4MATIC | GLE400 4M | GLE550e 4MATIC | AMG GLE43 | AMG GLE63 / AMG GLE63 S | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $52,000 / $54,500 | $65,650 | $66,300 | $67,150 | $101,690 / $108,840 |
| Length | 189.1” | 189.1” | 189.7” | 189.6” | 191” |
| Width | 84.3” | 84.3” | 84.3” | 84.3” | 84.3” |
| Height | 70.7” | 70.7” | 70.7” | 69.3 | 69.4” / 69.3” |
| Wheelbase | 114.8 | 114.8 | 114.8 | 114.8 | 114.8 |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | n/a | n/a | 5,456 | 4,987 | 5,203 / 5,225 |
| Fuel Economy | 12/23/20 28/22/19 | 18/23/20 | 20/23/21 (MPG) 39/50/43 (MPGe) | 17/ 23/ 20 | 13/17/15 |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 3.0L V6 biturbo | 3.0L V6 biturbo | AMG-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo | Handcrafted AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo |
| Displacement | 3,498 cc | 2,996 cc | 2,996 cc | 2,996 cc | 5,461 cc |
| Drive Config. | RWD / 4MATIC | 4MATIC | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| Performance | 302 hp / 273 lb-ft | 329 hp / 354 lb-ft | 436 hp / 479 lb-ft (combined) | 362 hp / 384 lb-ft | 550 hp / 516 lb-ft (GLE63), 577 hp / 561 lb-ft (GLE63 S) |
| Transmission | 7G-TRONIC | 9G-TRONIC | 7G-TRONIC | AMG-enhanced 9G-TRONIC | AMG SPEEDSHIFT® PLUS 7G-TRONIC |
| 0-60 mph (sec) | 7.5 | 5.9 | 5.3 | 5.6 | 4.2 / 4.1 |
| Top speed (mph) | 130 (electronically limited) | 130 (electronically limited) | 152 (80 in pure electric) | 130 (electronically limited) | 155 / 174 (electronically limited) |
| Main competitors | BMW X5, Acura MDX, Lexus RX | BMW X5, Acura MDX, Lexus RX | BMW X5, Acura MDX, Lexus RX | BMW X5, Acura MDX, Lexus RX | BMW X5, Acura MDX, Lexus RX |
Conclusion: The Versatile Appeal of the 2017 GLE Benz
The 2017 GLE Benz solidified its position as a leading luxury SUV, offering a compelling blend of performance, luxury, technology, and versatility. Whether buyers prioritized fuel efficiency, sporty driving dynamics, or opulent features, the diverse 2017 GLE Benz lineup provided a model to meet their needs. From the well-equipped GLE350 to the powerful AMG GLE63 S, the 2017 GLE Benz delivered a premium SUV experience.
