The Mercedes-Benz GLE has consistently reigned as a top choice for American drivers in the luxury mid-size SUV segment. In fact, it’s Mercedes-Benz’s best-selling model in the US through the first three quarters of 2023, outselling even popular sedans. This popularity stems from its compelling blend of smooth power, a sophisticated and tech-forward interior, and a wealth of premium features, all wrapped in a spacious SUV package. While not the most budget-friendly option with a starting price exceeding $62,000, it remains within reach for many luxury car buyers. For the 2024 model year, Mercedes-Benz has refreshed the GLE, introducing subtle yet significant updates to maintain its competitive edge. We spent a week thoroughly examining both the mid-range 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 and the high-performance Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 to bring you an in-depth Gle Mercedes Review, exploring its strengths and weaknesses to help you determine if it’s the ideal luxury SUV for your needs.
Image alt text: Front view of the powerful 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 63 AMG, showcasing its updated grille and headlight design.
What’s New in the 2024 GLE Mercedes-Benz?
The 2024 GLE-Class receives a series of refinements, both aesthetically and mechanically, designed to keep it at the forefront of the competitive luxury SUV market. The updates include revised styling cues both inside and out, engine tweaks for enhanced performance and efficiency in certain models, and the introduction of a new plug-in hybrid variant to the lineup. However, these changes are evolutionary rather than revolutionary, meaning the core GLE formula remains intact.
As before, buyers can choose between the traditional SUV body style, as featured in our test vehicles, or a more dynamically styled “coupe” variant, which is typically reserved for performance-oriented models. It’s important to note that the GLE SUV maintains a sophisticated and subtly rounded profile, differentiating it from the more utilitarian and boxy Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Both GLE body styles share a commanding front fascia, dominated by the iconic three-pointed star emblem. The grille, while retaining its prominent position and upright stance flanked by confident headlights, features subtle pattern revisions for the new model year. Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz offers different grille designs to visually distinguish between various trim levels, reflecting their emphasis on either luxury or performance.
Image alt text: Side profile of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450, highlighting its elegant lines and updated wheel design.
Inside the GLE: A Haven of Opulence and Technology
Stepping inside the GLE reveals an interior that masterfully blends classic luxury with cutting-edge technology. The centerpiece of the dashboard is a seamless widescreen display, formed by a 12.3-inch central touchscreen infotainment system merging with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. This expansive screen setup, while increasingly common even in mainstream vehicles, is executed with exceptional finesse in the Mercedes-Benz GLE. The screens are elegantly integrated above a substantial strip of premium wood trim. For the 2024 update, Mercedes-Benz has further enhanced the cabin ambiance by refining the trim surrounding the numerous air vents on the dashboard. A distinctive feature setting the GLE apart from Mercedes-Benz sedans is the inclusion of robust, leather-wrapped grab handles on the center console, subtly illuminated for a touch of nighttime sophistication.
Our assessment of the GLE’s interior is overwhelmingly positive. It’s a space that feels both visually striking and meticulously crafted. The cabin exudes a warmth and inviting character that can sometimes be absent in modern luxury vehicles, yet it avoids any hint of appearing dated. Our primary critique centers on the complexity of some controls. Operating certain vehicle functions can require navigating multiple steps within the infotainment system, suggesting a prioritization of aesthetic design over outright ease of use. While this design philosophy is arguably understandable in a luxury vehicle, we believe a more intuitive balance between style and functionality is achievable. For instance, adjusting the fan speed of the air conditioning should not require excessive interaction with menus. Fortunately, the infotainment system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, providing users with the option to seamlessly utilize their preferred smartphone interfaces for navigation, media, and communication.
Image alt text: Interior shot of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 63 AMG, showcasing the widescreen display, leather upholstery, and ambient lighting.
Space and Practicality: Roomy for Passengers and Cargo
While the GLE offers an optional third-row seat configuration, increasing capacity to seven, our test vehicle was equipped with this feature. While the third row can accommodate adults for short journeys or be useful in a pinch, the GLE is best considered a comfortable five-seater SUV. In this regard, it truly excels. Unlike some luxury automakers that necessitate upgrading to a full-size model for generous rear passenger space, the GLE provides ample legroom for five adults, particularly when the adjustable second-row seats are positioned fully rearward.
In terms of cargo capacity, the GLE SUV offers a respectable 33.3 cubic feet of space behind the second row, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. While these figures are comparable to a compact SUV like the Honda CR-V, they surpass many direct luxury competitors. The GLE Coupe model, with its sloping roofline, naturally sacrifices some cargo volume, offering 27.5 and 63.2 cubic feet respectively. For tasks requiring towing capability, the GLE demonstrates impressive strength for a mid-size luxury SUV, boasting a maximum towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds.
Image alt text: Rear cargo area of the Mercedes-Benz GLE, demonstrating its spaciousness and practicality.
Engine Choices: Power for Every Preference
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasts a diverse engine lineup, encompassing turbocharged four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and eight-cylinder options to cater to a wide spectrum of performance and efficiency preferences. The base GLE 350 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This engine enables a 0-60 mph acceleration time of around 7 seconds while achieving EPA-estimated fuel economy figures of 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. Our GLE 450 test vehicle featured a 3.0-liter inline-six engine generating 375 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant significantly enhances performance, dropping the 0-60 mph sprint to 5.3 seconds while only marginally sacrificing fuel economy, with a combined EPA estimate just 1 mpg lower than the four-cylinder. During our week-long test, we observed an average fuel economy of 23 mpg in mixed driving conditions.
Moving up the range, the GLE 580 is equipped with a potent 4.0-liter V8 engine delivering 510 hp and 538 lb-ft of torque. This engine propels the GLE 580 to 60 mph in a brisk 4.3 seconds, albeit with a reduction in fuel economy, averaging around 18 mpg in mixed driving. The lineup also includes the new GLE 450e plug-in hybrid, which combines a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for enhanced efficiency and performance. This model offers a quicker 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds and an anticipated electric driving range of 30 to 40 miles on a full charge. For driving enthusiasts seeking maximum performance, the AMG variants of the GLE offer even more exhilarating power and handling capabilities.
Image alt text: Front three-quarter view of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450, emphasizing its refined styling and road presence.
AMG Performance: Unleashing the Beast Within
For those craving exhilarating performance, the Mercedes-AMG GLE models represent the pinnacle of the GLE lineup. The range begins with the GLE 53 AMG, powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 429 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivers impressive acceleration, enabling a 0-60 mph sprint in a claimed 4.9 seconds.
However, the undisputed king of the GLE range is the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S, as exemplified by our test vehicle. This beastly SUV houses a hand-built turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine churning out a staggering 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. The result is truly breathtaking acceleration, launching the GLE 63 S from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.7 seconds. The V8 engine also produces a sonorous exhaust note, a characteristic that sets it apart from the increasingly silent world of electric vehicles. While the raw power and auditory experience are undeniably thrilling, the GLE 63 S’s fuel economy is predictably compromised. We observed around 23 mpg on the highway but only 12 mpg in city driving. The EPA estimates are 15 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. Furthermore, the engine’s stop/start system occasionally exhibited a slight delay in restarting, which could be noticeable in stop-and-go traffic.
Image alt text: Rear view of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 63 AMG, highlighting its quad exhaust outlets and sporty diffuser.
Ride and Handling: Comfort vs. Performance
The AMG GLE models, particularly the GLE 63 S, demonstrate surprisingly agile handling for their size and weight. The sophisticated AMG-tuned suspension effectively minimizes body roll during cornering without sacrificing ride comfort to an excessive degree. While it may not possess the razor-sharp driving dynamics of a Porsche Cayenne, the AMG GLE offers a distinctly more engaging driving experience compared to the standard GLE models.
The rest of the GLE lineup, including our GLE 450 test vehicle, prioritizes a smooth and refined driving experience. While handling is competent and secure, the emphasis is clearly on comfort and quietness. Competitors like the BMW X5 and Audi Q7 offer a slightly sharper and more athletic feel, not to mention the Porsche Cayenne. However, the GLE distinguishes itself with its exceptional cabin quietness and generally composed and comfortable ride quality. In a market where even some luxury SUVs can exhibit a less-than-refined ride, the GLE’s smoothness is a notable strength. Standard adaptive suspension and selectable driving modes further enhance the GLE’s ability to balance ride comfort and handling responsiveness.
Image alt text: Mercedes-Benz GLE driving on a winding road, demonstrating its composed handling and smooth ride.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Peace of Mind as Standard
The Mercedes-Benz GLE has consistently achieved top safety ratings. The 2023 model earned a perfect five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in all crash tests. It also received the highest Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The IIHS specifically noted that an optional cross-traffic detection system enhances the GLE’s automatic emergency braking performance in pedestrian avoidance scenarios.
Standard safety and driver-assistance features on the GLE include forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and a hands-free parking system. Available upgrades include the aforementioned cross-traffic detection system, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping steering assist, and a reconfigurable surround-view parking camera system.
Image alt text: Mercedes-Benz GLE undergoing crash testing, highlighting its robust safety structure.
Pricing and Value: Premium SUV, Premium Price
The updated 2024 GLE-Class sees a price increase of a few thousand dollars compared to the previous model year. The entry-level four-cylinder GLE 350 starts at $62,650, while both the V6-powered GLE 450 and the new GLE 450e plug-in hybrid share a starting price of $69,500. The GLE 580 begins at $86,700, the GLE 53 AMG at $86,750, and the range-topping GLE 63 AMG commands a hefty $127,700 starting price.
While the GLE’s base price includes a generous list of standard features, such as a power driver’s seat with memory, a sunroof, GPS navigation, a hands-free power liftgate, and adaptive suspension, certain desirable features remain optional. These include genuine leather upholstery (leatherette is standard) and advanced driver-assistance technologies. Some competitors offer comparable or even more standard equipment at lower price points.
Image alt text: Close-up of the Mercedes-Benz GLE 63 AMG badge, symbolizing its high-performance credentials and premium status.
Competitive Landscape: Navigating the Luxury SUV Arena
The Mercedes-Benz GLE competes in a fiercely contested segment of the luxury SUV market, facing numerous compelling rivals. Key competitors include fellow German stalwarts, the BMW X5 and Audi Q7. Other noteworthy alternatives include the Genesis GV80, Lincoln Aviator, and Volvo XC90.
The BMW X5 and Audi Q7 are often praised for their sportier handling dynamics, while the Lincoln Aviator and Volvo XC90 tend to emphasize family-friendliness and passenger comfort. Crucially, many of these competitors offer lower starting prices than the GLE. However, the Mercedes-Benz GLE distinguishes itself with a warmer, more inviting, and more spacious interior compared to many rivals. For buyers who don’t require a third-row seat, the GLE’s generous interior space may negate the need to consider larger, more expensive full-size SUVs from competing brands. Furthermore, the GLE 450e plug-in hybrid variant offers superior efficiency compared to the Lincoln Aviator and potentially rivals the plug-in hybrid versions of the BMW X5 and Volvo XC90, while Audi and Genesis currently lack plug-in hybrid powertrains in this segment. For buyers still undecided in the luxury SUV market, these factors may significantly influence their purchasing decision.
Image alt text: Mercedes-Benz GLE parked in a scenic location, showcasing its versatility and luxurious appeal.
Final Verdict: A Refined and Versatile Luxury SUV
Ultimately, a luxury vehicle is more than just the sum of its specifications and features. Emotional factors, brand loyalty, and personal preferences often play a significant role in purchasing decisions. While a detailed GLE Mercedes review may highlight specific strengths and weaknesses compared to competing SUVs, the overarching takeaway is that the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE is a remarkably refined, quiet, spacious, beautifully appointed, and feature-rich vehicle.
Mercedes-Benz offers an exceptionally diverse range of powertrains for the GLE, catering to various needs and priorities. From the relatively fuel-efficient four-cylinder to the zero-emission commuting capability of the plug-in hybrid, and the potent V6 and V8 options offering varying degrees of performance and sound, there’s a GLE configuration to suit almost every taste. Therefore, if the GLE’s overall package resonates with you, you’re likely to find a specific model within the range that perfectly aligns with your requirements. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the Mercedes-Benz GLE commands a premium price, reflecting its luxury status and comprehensive feature set.
Image alt text: Mercedes-Benz GLE front detail, emphasizing its iconic three-pointed star and sophisticated design.
