2022 Mercedes Benz GLE Class SUV Review New GLE Class SUV SUV Models CarBuzz

2022 Mercedes Benz GLE Class SUV Review New GLE Class SUV SUV Models CarBuzz

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV Review New GLE-Class SUV SUV Models CarBuzz News Features New Cars Used Cars Sell My Car Shopping Tools Car Reviews Car Finder Compare Cars Best Cars Car Dealerships Used Car Reviews Car Advice Home Cars Mercedes-Benz 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV

AMG GLE 53 CoupeGLE-Class SUVAMG GLE 53 SUVAMG GLE 63 CoupeAMG GLE 63 SUVGLE-Class SUV All GenerationsNew202320222021Used202020192018201720162022 $56,150 - $80,900 Price Range (MSRP) Build and Price 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV For Sale Best SUVs for Towing Best V8 SUVs Mercedes-Benz SUVs Review Exterior Interior Trims & Specs Performance Safety & Reliability 62 Photos Compare insurance prices: Save an average of $440 Free Quote

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV Review Refining A Proven Recipe

by Cobus F. Potgieter Mercedes' midsize crossover SUV was first launched in 1997 under the ML nameplate, but it was rebranded as the GLE-Class SUV in 2015. The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV range now comprises four models, ranging in price from $55,700 to $80,200, excluding the AMG performance models, which receive their own reviews. Buyers get a choice between three different powertrains, as well as either RWD or AWD, depending on trim. These multifaceted SUVs go up against capable rivals in the form of the BMW X5 and Audi Q7, but stand apart for their impeccable interior quality and refined ride. However, not every configuration is a winner, so you'll want to choose wisely if you have your heart set on a tristar SUV.

Read in this review

Exterior Design 8 /10 Performance 9 /10 Fuel Economy 8 /10 Interior & Cargo 10 /10 Infotainment & Features 10 /10 Reliability 8 /10 Safety 10 /10 Value For Money 7 /10 8.8 What is BuzzScore?

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV Changes What s the Difference vs the 2021 Mercedes GLE-Class SUV

The redesigned new W167 GLE-Class launched as a 2020 model, only two years ago. Last year, nothing much changed and this year, it's the same story. Adaptive Highbeam Assist now becomes standard equipment on all models and there are new Espresso Brown / Black and White / Black leather upholstery options. Lastly, Cirrus Silver joins the range of exterior paint colors. There is expected to be a supply squeeze on GLE 580 models due to the limited availability of its V8 engine, Mercedes citing a "quality issue".

Pros and Cons

Excellent quality and materialsSlick MBUX infotainment systemAir suspension delivers great right quality and handlingEntry-level rear-wheel-drive model availableCan go off-road when properly speccedGood range of engines Tight third rowSubstandard ride and body control on standard suspensionExtras push the price upMBUX can be complicated to master at first

Best Deals on 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 SUV $63,991 10,598 miles Fair Deal Average price 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 SUV $64,991 11,718 miles Fair Deal Average price 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV $89,991 13,415 miles Overpriced 40% above 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 SUV $59,774 4,602 miles Fair Deal Average price See All GLE-Class SUV For Sale

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV Trims

See trim levels and configurations: Trim Engine Transmission Drivetrain Price (MSRP) GLE 350 SUV 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas 9-Speed Automatic Rear-Wheel Drive $56,150 GLE 350 4MATIC SUV 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas 9-Speed Automatic All-Wheel Drive $58,650 GLE 450 4MATIC SUV 3.0L Turbo Inline-6 Gas 9-Speed Automatic All-Wheel Drive $63,950 GLE 580 4MATIC SUV 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 Gas 9-Speed Automatic All-Wheel Drive $80,900 See All 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV Trims and Specs

Handling and Driving Impressions

This is the most important part of choosing and speccing your Merc SUV. The base GLE 350 is disliked by many people because it is only available with the standard suspension, which has been slated in some GLE-Class reviews for its ride quality and suspension control on broken surfaces. The adjustable AirMatic air suspension available on the GLE 450 and standard on the GLE 580 is a must-have to address some of the base GLE's ride/handling foibles. AirMatic transforms the vehicle into a pleasing SUV to pilot and is good value at $1,710, complete with Mercedes' ADS Plus adaptive-damping technology. It's perhaps a little too floaty in its most comfortable setting, but its adaptive nature ensures that the GLE is not all at sea when a corner arrives and won't list like a fishing trawler in a gale when some handling prowess is required. However, like some air-suspension systems, abrupt bumps can catch it off guard. If your budget only stretches as far as the GLE 350 and you only ride on billiard-smooth roads, perhaps you could live with the standard suspension, but try both before you buy. Now Buzzing Electric Vehicles Tesla Cybertruck Spotted With Production-Ready Rear End Crash Watch A Seventh-Gen Toyota Hilux Truck Launch Into The Air After Losing Control Auctions One-Off Plymouth Barracuda Four-Door Is A Muscle Car Unicorn First Drive 2023 Toyota Crown First Drive Review: A Tale Of Two Hybrids Sports Cars 2023 BMW M2 Coming With Optional Center-Lock Wheels Tuning 700-Horsepower 2023 Nissan Z By AMS Performance Hits Nine-Second Quarter Mile

Verdict Is the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV a Good SUV

Yes, but good may not be good enough in the cut-throat midsize SUV class. It has some stand-out features that make it a worthy contender, not least the punchy and economical drivetrain of the sweet-spot GLE 450 and the feature-rich MBUX infotainment system. But the range as a whole is a mixed bag and there are too many pitfalls. It is a shame that Mercedes did not go to more trouble getting the suspension tuning spot-on for the US market because, under certain circumstances, the standard suspension is disappointing. The air suspension papers over some of the flaws, but it's not perfect either. Opt for the right spec, choose the right model, and don't splurge on the extras, and the GLE can meet all your needs with a truly striking and comfortable interior, decent 5+2 seating if you specify the third row, top-notch tech, and the cachet that goes with the badge on the grille. As a range, it offers more variety than its rivals too, with a lower starting point than the X5 and a faster performance model than the Q7.

Check out other Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Styles

AMG GLE 53 Coupe Compare AMG GLE 53 SUV Compare AMG GLE 63 Coupe Compare AMG GLE 63 SUV Compare

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV Comparisons

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2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV vs Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUV

It might be quite a bit more expensive than the GLE, but one has to ask where the GLS fits into the picture if you're considering a seven-seat GLE. At a starting price of $77,200, the GLS 450 gets the same powertrain as the cheaper GLE 450, but it also offers a far more usable third row and more luxury and equipment than the GLE. It's not exciting to look at, but surprisingly exciting to drive; even the base model has features that cost extra on the GLE, such as ventilated front seats with memory, a standard third row, a Burmester surround-sound system, a surround-view camera system, and an AirMatic suspension that has been properly tuned. It might just be the better choice and is a more resolved car if the budget stretches that far. See Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUV Review

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV vs BMW X5

For superb quality, sharp handling, and excellent performance, the X5 is hard to beat. Importantly, it rides well too, irrespective of suspension choice. However, if you're bent on an entry-level inline-4 option, you'll have to look to the GLE or Q7, because the X5 is not available with anything less than six cylinders. At least a 2WD model is offered, if you prefer that. The steering is not very communicative, but this is hardly a deal-breaker in an SUV. What might be more irritating is a comparative lack of cabin storage. The GLE would rank more highly against the X5 if Mercedes could address its suspension issues. As it stands, the X5 is a better car for about the same money. See BMW X5 Review

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV vs Audi Q7

For less money than the equivalent GLE, the Q7 presents a compelling argument. It has a slightly bigger third row, a noticeably bigger trunk, and unrivaled interior quality in this class. It handles and rides better than the GLE on average and while no X5, it is more entertaining than a GLE on a twisty road with better suspension calibration. The base 2.0-liter matches the GLE 350 RWD on price and performance but offers quattro AWD as standard. As an overall package, it beats the GLE and exhibits very few weaknesses other than rather poor fuel consumption. See Audi Q7 Review

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV Popular Comparisons

The most popular competitors of 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV: Acura MDX $48,000 - $72,050 Price (MSRP) Compare Audi e-tron $65,900 Price (MSRP) Compare Audi e-tron S $84,800 Price (MSRP) Compare Audi e-tron S Sportback $90,800 Price (MSRP) Compare Audi e-tron Sportback $69,100 Price (MSRP) Compare Audi Q7 $57,500 - $62,500 Price (MSRP) Compare Audi Q8 $70,800 Price (MSRP) Compare Audi SQ7 $88,500 Price (MSRP) Compare Audi SQ8 $93,500 Price (MSRP) Compare BMW X5 $60,600 - $82,800 Price (MSRP) Compare BMW X5 Hybrid $63,700 Price (MSRP) Compare BMW X6 $67,350 - $86,250 Price (MSRP) Compare Buick Enclave $42,800 - $57,100 Price (MSRP) Compare Cadillac XT6 $48,595 - $58,295 Price (MSRP) Compare Ford Explorer $35,510 - $55,630 Price (MSRP) Compare Ford Explorer Hybrid $54,375 Price (MSRP) Compare Genesis GV80 $50,200 - $77,200 Price (MSRP) Compare Infiniti QX55 $46,500 - $57,050 Price (MSRP) Compare Infiniti QX60 $47,850 - $64,250 Price (MSRP) Compare Jaguar F-Pace $50,900 - $65,500 Price (MSRP) Compare Jaguar F-Pace SVR $86,600 Price (MSRP) Compare Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe $58,465 - $71,195 Price (MSRP) Compare Land Rover Discovery $55,000 - $70,300 Price (MSRP) Compare Land Rover Range Rover Sport $83,000 - $121,500 Price (MSRP) Compare Lexus GX $56,125 - $65,635 Price (MSRP) Compare Lexus RX TBC Price (MSRP) Compare Lexus RX Hybrid $48,720 - $58,110 Price (MSRP) Compare Lincoln Aviator $50,870 - $79,675 Price (MSRP) Compare Lincoln Aviator Hybrid $68,680 - $88,230 Price (MSRP) Compare Lincoln Nautilus $44,090 - $66,710 Price (MSRP) Compare Maserati Levante $79,400 - $115,400 Price (MSRP) Compare Porsche Cayenne $69,000 - $109,000 Price (MSRP) Compare Porsche Cayenne Coupe $77,500 - $111,700 Price (MSRP) Compare Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid $83,300 - $165,300 Price (MSRP) Compare Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid Coupe $88,600 - $167,800 Price (MSRP) Compare Rivian R1S SUV $72,500 - $90,000 Price (MSRP) Compare Volvo XC90 $49,000 - $63,750 Price (MSRP) Compare Cadillac Lyriq $59,990 - $90,000 Price (MSRP) Compare See All 38 Comparisons

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV News

Cold Start 0 Dodge Challenger Shakedown, California Bans Combustion Vehicle Sales, Tesla Yokes Falling Apart: Cold Start Our morning roundup also looks at Nissan breaking up with Mercedes and scientists finding a way to charge EVs in just 10 minutes. Engine 1 Nissan And Mercedes Part Ways In The US As Tennessee Factory Gets Shut Down The plant mostly made engines for Mercedes-Benz anyway. Special Editions 2 Mercedes-Benz Calls This Special GLE SUV A Future Collectible The blacked-out model celebrates 55 years of AMG. LoginSign Up Home News Features Car Reviews Car Advice 2021 CarBuzz Awards New Cars Used Cars Future Cars Compare Cars Sell My Car Car Dealerships Buy Here Pay Here Used Car Reviews Popular Tags Cars # Video # TOP # Spy Shots # Reveal # Rumor # Auto Show # Supercar # Tuning # Car Culture # Industry News # Motorsport Acura Alfa Romeo Aston Martin Audi Bentley BMW Bollinger Bugatti Buick Cadillac Caterham Chevrolet Chrysler Dodge Ferrari Fiat Fisker Ford Genesis GMC Hennessey Honda Hyundai Infiniti Jaguar Jeep Karma Kia Koenigsegg Lamborghini Land Rover Lexus Lincoln Lordstown Lotus Lucid Motors Maserati Mazda McLaren Mercedes-Benz Mini Mitsubishi Nissan Pagani Polestar Porsche Ram Rimac Rivian Rolls-Royce Spyker Subaru Tesla Toyota Volkswagen Volvo By Make Acura Alfa Romeo Aston Martin Audi Bentley BMW Bollinger Bugatti Buick Cadillac Caterham Chevrolet Chrysler Dodge Ferrari Fiat Fisker Ford Genesis GMC Hennessey Honda Hyundai Infiniti Jaguar Jeep Karma Kia Koenigsegg Lamborghini Land Rover Lexus Lincoln Lordstown Lotus Lucid Motors Maserati Mazda McLaren Mercedes-Benz Mini Mitsubishi Nissan Pagani Polestar Porsche Ram Rimac Rivian Rolls-Royce Spyker Subaru Tesla Toyota Volkswagen Volvo By Car Type SUVs Crossovers Sedans Coupes Trucks Sports Cars Wagons Vans Hatchbacks Convertibles Small Cars Luxury Cars Electric Cars Hybrid Cars Future Cars By Price Up to $15K $15K - $25K $25K - $35K $35K - $45K $45K - $55K $55K - $75K $75K - $100K $100K - $200K $200K - $300K Above $300K Back To Top
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