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Independent review by Peter Hayward from Driving Force

4-minute read

Engines and Performance

The standard suspension system offers superb comfort over pretty well all surfaces, but upper models improve on that with an air system that manages to reduce the amount o lean in corners.

There is a wide range of engines – almost exclusively diesels – and also a huge array of electronic safety devices. But sadly most of these are only available as options, but more on this later.

Drive is to all four wheels via a standard 9-speed automatic gearbox and straight line performance is excellent in all, with 0 to 60 miles an hour times ranging from 7.0 seconds down to 5.5 seconds.
Peter Hayward

Power units start with the 300d, which has a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder diesel producing 241bhp, and this can manage a very best of 44mpg.

There is also a 3.0-litre 6-cylinder 300d with 272bhp and 39mpg, and the same unit is used in the 350d models.

The 400d has the same size unit but now improved upon to produce 325bhp, and economy drops by 1mpg.

Finally, there is a diesel/electric plug-in hybrid which has a combined power of 320bhp. The battery only range is 66 miles, while emissions are rated at 29g/km.

It’s rated at a government figure of 257mpg, but don’t forget, those figures are only for comparison and bear little relation to what you will achieve out on the road – no matter how careful you are.

The steering is very light and easy for manoeuvring, but sadly, there is very little road feel through corners at normal speeds. That said, this is not a car most owners are likely to hustle across country.

Design and Practicality

The GLE is about the same size as the BMW X5 or Audi Q7, so there is plenty of space for five adults.

Almost all models in the latest range, which was launched in 2019, have a third row of seats that lift up from the boot floor, but they are really only suitable for children – who are almost certainly the only people who will want to use them.

Interior and Equipment

There are four levels of trim, and the entry AMG Line comes with 20-inch alloys, lane keeping assistance, parking sensors and a reversing camera, blind spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking and electric heated leather seats.

Loads of driver assistance electronic safety is available, but sadly, it’s all part of the optional Driving Assistance package, so make sure any car in which you’re interested in has all the kit you want.

The safety pack includes active blind spot assistance that will automatically steer away from an imminent blind spot collision, and active lane change assist, which will automatically change lanes when the driver uses the indicator.

There is also a speed adjustment system that allows for bends, roundabouts, and junctions on the chosen route, and active speed limit assist that automatically sets the cruise control to the current limit. It’s all very sci-fi, isn’t it?

AMG Line Executive adds 21-inch wheels, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay phone connection, and Premium gives you electric seats and an all-round view camera system.

Finally, Premium Plus adds a panoramic glass roof, an interior fragrance system, adaptive cruise control, and an upgraded Burmester stereo.

The latest Mercedes-Benz GLE is a technological tour de force, with not one but two 12-inch screens in the swish and stylish dashboard.

One controls the infotainment, sat nav and much more while directly in front of the driver, the second includes all the instruments.

Find your Mercedes-Benz GLE your way with CarStore

A luxurious interior and exterior design, as well as a spacious and smooth drive, are just a small part of the appeal of the Mercedes-Benz GLE. If you're looking for a family car with high levels of technology, the GLE is a great choice for you.

Here at CarStore, you're able to buy your car your way. Whether that be online, in-person, or a mix of both, the choice is yours. With an extensive variety of used cars available, we're sure to have a car that suits your lifestyle.