2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV
What’s new
- The GLE 350 is now known as the GLE 400
- The GLE 400 comes with a turbocharged V6
- All-wheel drive is now standard
- Part of the first GLE generation introduced for 2016
Pros & Cons
- Multiple available powertrains make each model distinct
- Interior is quiet, upscale and roomy
- Abundant list of standard safety, tech and luxury features
- AMG variants are seriously quick
- Ride quality with the standard suspension isn't as comfy as expected
- Punishing ride on AMG models, with little benefit to handling
- Not many places to store personal items
Which GLE-Class does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
7.7 / 10At first glance, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE would seem to have missed the mark, failing to offer a third row of seats or flash some off-road credibility with rugged styling and beefy hardware. But upon closer inspection, the GLE has found a luxurious sweet spot, providing excellent comfort for four adults and offering a truly wide range of performance-driven personalities.
Powering the base GLE 400 is a 329-horsepower twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that not only provides adequate performance in daily driving situations but is also capable of towing up to 7,200 pounds. And if a quicker pace is required, the AMG GLE 43 is equipped with a 385-hp twin-turbo V6 engine and a suitably upgraded performance suspension. But if nothing but a V8 will do, the AMG GLE 63 and 63 S offer a twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 engine that pumps out 550 hp and 577 hp, respectively. That's certain to get your boat, and your family, to the lake in record time.
No matter which GLE model you choose, the interior is beautifully outfitted with copious amounts of leather, wood and suede as well as a heaping dose of some of the latest infotainment and safety technology from Mercedes-Benz. If you're in the market for a luxurious SUV, any one of the GLE SUVs should be at the top of your list.
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class models
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE is a five-passenger SUV that slots between the GLC compact crossover and the three-row GLS. It's offered in four trims, each with a distinct powertrain. Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel-drive system is standard on all trims.
Powering the GLE 400 is a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (329 horsepower, 354 pound-feet of torque) and a nine-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive (4Matic) is standard. The generous list of standard features starts with 19-inch alloy wheels, automatic wipers, a sunroof, power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors, and a power liftgate.
Inside, you'll find dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable steering wheel, heated front seats, a 10-way power driver seat (with four-way power lumbar adjustment and memory functions), simulated-leather upholstery, Mercedes' COMAND electronics interface with a 7-inch display, a CD player, and two USB ports. There are also keyless start and 4G LTE Wi-Fi. Standard advanced safety features include a rearview camera, an automatic emergency braking system and crosswind assist.
Three optional packages that encompass many of the features are available for the GLE. The Premium 1 package is one of the most comprehensive for the GLE 400, adding keyless ignition and entry, a navigation system with an 8-inch screen, a touchpad controller for the central display, satellite radio, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, a 14-speaker premium Harman Kardon audio system, a 115-volt household-style power outlet, blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning.
The Premium 2 package adds adaptive LED headlights, automatic high-beam control, heated and cooled front cupholders, multi-color interior ambient lighting, illuminated doorsills, rear-window sunshades, and a fold-down pass-through behind the rear-center armrest. On top of that, the Premium 3 package features a 360-degree parking camera, adaptive cruise control, automated steering, a collision avoidance system, lane departure intervention and an automated parking system.
The first of the performance-oriented models is the AMG GLE 43. It features a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (385 hp, 384 lb-ft), a nine-speed automatic transmission, 20-inch wheels, an AMG-tuned adaptive air suspension, a sport exhaust, exterior styling upgrades, a flat-bottom steering wheel, simulated-leather upholstery, and the contents of the Premium 1 package.
Next up is the AMG GLE 63, which adds a stout twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 (550 hp, 516 lb-ft), a seven-speed automatic transmission, upgraded brakes, summer performance tires, active stabilizer bars, a sport steering wheel, a 10-way power passenger seat (with four-way power lumbar and memory functions), upgraded leather upholstery, wood trim, a faux suede headliner, and the contents of the Premium 2 package.
Finally, there's the top-dog AMG GLE 63 S, motivated by an even more powerful version of the turbo V8 (577 hp, 561 lb-ft). It also adds 21-inch wheels, red brake calipers and faux suede steering-wheel inserts.
Many features included in the upper trims or packages can be added separately. Notable stand-alone options include a panoramic sunroof, a trailer hitch, tri-zone climate control, multicontour front seats with massage, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon or a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 43 (turbo 3.0L V6 | 9-speed automatic | AWD).
NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current GLE has received some revisions, including the GLE 43's increase in horsepower from 362 to 385 hp. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's GLE.
Scorecard
| Overall | 7.7 / 10 |
| Driving | 7.0 |
| Comfort | 8.0 |
| Interior | 8.5 |
| Utility | 8.5 |
| Technology | 7.5 |
Driving
7.0Acceleration
7.0Braking
8.0Steering
7.0Handling
6.0Drivability
7.0Comfort
8.0Seat comfort
8.0Ride comfort
7.0Noise & vibration
7.0Climate control
8.0Interior
8.5Ease of use
8.5Getting in/getting out
9.0Driving position
8.5Roominess
8.0Visibility
8.5Quality
9.5Utility
8.5Small-item storage
7.0Cargo space
8.5Child safety seat accommodation
10.0Towing
7.5Technology
7.5Smartphone integration
8.0Driver aids
8.5Voice control
6.0Sponsored cars related to the GLE-Class
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class.
Trending topics in reviews
- comfort
- sound system
- handling & steering
- infotainment system
- interior
Most helpful consumer reviews
After driving Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350 for the last few years, decided to give a MB a try. Feels more comfortable, and quieter inside the cabin. Nav. screen is a lot smaller than Lexus, and I miss the speed limit assistance I was used to with Lexus, which my MB didn’t come with. MB definitely has more power than my previous cars, handles pretty nice, Harmon K stereo is better than Mark Levinson. Still getting used to all the tech stuff so it is too early to judge, overall pretty happy, looked at BMW 5x it had more tech stuff but was way more expensive, with discount MB was about $9k cheaper
Features & Specs
| GLE 400 4MATIC 4dr SUV AWD 3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $55,700 |
| MPG | 17 city / 23 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 329 hp @ 5250 rpm |
| AMG GLE 43 4dr SUV AWD 3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $68,150 |
| MPG | 17 city / 22 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 385 hp @ 5500 rpm |
| AMG GLE 63 4dr SUV AWD 5.5L 8cyl Turbo 7A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $103,050 |
| MPG | 12 city / 18 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 550 hp @ 5250 rpm |
| AMG GLE 63 S 4dr SUV AWD 5.5L 8cyl Turbo 7A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $110,200 |
| MPG | 14 city / 18 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 577 hp @ 5500 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite GLE-Class safety features:
- Blind-Spot Assist
- Illuminates a light on the side mirror when a vehicle enters the GLE's blind spot. Sounds an alert if the turn signal is activated.
- Surround View System
- Displays a 360-degree bird's-eye view of the GLE, making it easier to park.
- Parking Pilot
- Guides the GLE into a parking spot with minimal driver assistance.
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
| Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | Not Rated |
| Driver | Not Rated |
| Passenger | Not Rated |
| Side Crash Rating | Rating |
| Overall | Not Rated |
| Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
| Overall | Not Rated |
| Driver | Not Rated |
| Passenger | Not Rated |
| Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
| Front Seat | Not Rated |
| Back Seat | Not Rated |
| Rollover | Rating |
| Rollover | 4 / 5 |
| Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
| Risk Of Rollover | 17.9% |
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
| Side Impact Test | Good |
|---|---|
| Roof Strength Test | Good |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class vs. the competition
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class vs. Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
If you like everything about the GLE except for its size, the smaller GLC might be just what you're looking for. Awash in typical Mercedes-Benz luxury appointments, the GLC is more manageable on tight city streets, but it's still able to comfortably seat adults in the back seat. Cargo and towing capacities aren't on par with those of the GLE, but the GLC is thousands of dollars less expensive.
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class vs. BMW X5
Completely redesigned for 2019, the BMW X5 is looking to take the top spot in our rankings away from the GLE. It's packed with BMW's latest tech and offers both six- and eight-cylinder engine options. For maximum performance, the AMG GLE 63 still has the upper hand. The all-new 2020 GLE is also right around the corner and should be a great match for the X5.
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class vs. Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
The GLS is certainly more expensive than the GLE, but it is larger and more capable and has third-row seating comfortable enough for adults. But with a base price above $70K — to say nothing of the GLS 550, which starts north of $90K — all of that extra space and capability comes at a hefty price.
FAQ
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class a good car?
What's new in the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class:
- The GLE 350 is now known as the GLE 400
- The GLE 400 comes with a turbocharged V6
- All-wheel drive is now standard
- Part of the first GLE generation introduced for 2016
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class reliable?
Is the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
The least-expensive 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class GLE 400 4MATIC 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $55,700.
Other versions include:
- GLE 400 4MATIC 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $55,700
- AMG GLE 43 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $68,150
- AMG GLE 63 4dr SUV AWD (5.5L 8cyl Turbo 7A) which starts at $103,050
- AMG GLE 63 S 4dr SUV AWD (5.5L 8cyl Turbo 7A) which starts at $110,200
What are the different models of Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
More about the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV Overview
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV is offered in the following styles: GLE 400 4MATIC 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A), AMG GLE 43 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 9A), AMG GLE 63 4dr SUV AWD (5.5L 8cyl Turbo 7A), and AMG GLE 63 S 4dr SUV AWD (5.5L 8cyl Turbo 7A).
What do people think of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2019 GLE-Class SUV 4.5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2019 GLE-Class SUV.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 GLE-Class SUV featuring deep dives into trim levels including GLE 400 4MATIC, AMG GLE 43, AMG GLE 63, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Read our full review of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV here.Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV?
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUVS are available in my area?
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV Listings and Inventory
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Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV and all available trim types: GLE 400 4MATIC, AMG GLE 43, AMG GLE 63, etc. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Mercedes-Benz lease specials