What is it?
The W167 GLE received its mid-life facelift in 2023, with new headlights, MBUX cabin upgrade and three core drivetrains. 4MATIC AWD is standard, the 450e PHEV leads the segment on EV range at 110 km WLTP, and the optional third row is the only German seven-seat rival under the GLS.
The lineup runs from GLE 300d 4MATIC at $133,500 plus on-roads, through to Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ at $201,700 plus on-roads. Warranty cover sits at 5 years, unlimited km.
Interior and Technology
110 km WLTP EV range on the GLE 450e is the longest in the segment. 3,500 kg braked tow across all three core drivetrains, and the only German rival with an optional seven-seat configuration.
Third row is a $3,400 paid option rather than standard at this price. PHEV boot drops to 490 L due to battery packaging. MBUX touch-button steering wheel is fiddly on the move.
Should you buy the GLE?
Reasons to buy
- 110 km WLTP EV range on the GLE 450e is the longest in the segment. 3,500 kg braked tow across all three core drivetrains, and the only German rival with an optional seven-seat configuration.
- Warranty: 5 years, unlimited km. EV/PHEV battery: 8 years, 160,000 km.
- 5-star ANCAP (2019), full driver-assist suite.
- 630 L (5-seat) boot, segment-competitive cargo space.
- Braked towing rated at 3,500 kg.
Reasons to wait
- Third row is a $3,400 paid option rather than standard at this price. PHEV boot drops to 490 L due to battery packaging. MBUX touch-button steering wheel is fiddly on the move.
- You want seven seats standard (Audi Q7), a 7-year warranty (Genesis GV80 still offers 5 years but stronger value), or your budget tops out below $133,500 plus on-road costs.
- GLE 450e PHEV is $35,000 more than the 300d, takes years to recoup at the pump. Options inflate the drive-away figure past $190,000 quickly.
- Top trim climbs to $201,700 plus on-roads.
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