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2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE is a simplified lineup: the GLE 300d diesel and GLE 400 were dropped. The remaining SUVs otherwise carry over, though the GLE 350 models gain several standard convenience and safety features.
About the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE
W166-based GLE generation (2016-2019 facelift/rename of the prior M-Class), late-cycle year before the 2019 trim reshuffle and the all-new 2020 redesign.
Mercedes positions the GLE as a midsize luxury SUV built around comfort, craftsmanship, safety, and flexibility rather than a third-row family-hauler mission. In the U.S. brochure, it emphasizes adapting to different needs and moods, pairing a quiet, upscale cabin with useful cargo space, strong road-trip comfort, and a broad spread of powertrains including a plug-in hybrid. Its core appeal versus rivals is the Mercedes feel inside, easy long-distance comfort, and solid everyday utility in a two-row package.
The 2018 GLE lineup centers on the comfort-focused GLE 350, sold with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and powered by a 302-hp V6. The GLE 550e is the richer plug-in hybrid model, pairing all-wheel drive and 436 combined horsepower with navigation, smartphone integration, leather upholstery, and added driver-assistance features.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The diesel GLE 300d 4MATIC and gasoline GLE 400 4MATIC were dropped, leaving the V6-powered GLE 350 models and the GLE 550e plug-in hybrid in the regular SUV lineup.
Tech
Navigation, remote start, and satellite radio became standard on the GLE 350 and GLE 350 4MATIC; these features had been optional for 2017.
Safety
A rearview camera became standard on the GLE 350 and GLE 350 4MATIC after being optional for 2017.
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter | V6, Hybrid, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd 7G-Tronic | Auto, 7-Spd 7G-Tronic | Auto, 7-Spd 7G-Tronic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Plug-In Hybrid |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 18 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 302 hp | 302 hp | |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft | 273 lb-ft | 479 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6600 lb | 7200 lb | 4410 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 80.3 cu-ft | 80.3 cu-ft | 80.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38.4 in | 38.4 in | 38.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 10 | ||
| MPGe Combined | 43 | ||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| 360 Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| 115V Power Outlet | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE?
The main change is a smaller trim lineup, with the GLE 300d diesel and GLE 400 dropped. The GLE 350 and GLE 350 4MATIC also gained standard navigation, a rearview camera, remote start, and satellite radio.
Was the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered with a diesel engine?
No. The diesel-powered GLE 300d 4MATIC was dropped for 2018, so the regular SUV lineup consisted of the gasoline GLE 350 models and the GLE 550e plug-in hybrid.
Did the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 have standard navigation?
Yes. Navigation became standard on both the 2018 GLE 350 and GLE 350 4MATIC after being optional for 2017.
What is the difference between the 2018 GLE 350 and GLE 350 4MATIC?
The GLE 350 has rear-wheel drive, while the GLE 350 4MATIC has full-time all-wheel drive. Both use the same 302-hp 3.5-liter V6 and seven-speed automatic transmission.
Is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE a major update over the 2017 model?
No. The 2018 GLE is not a redesign or broad refresh; its main differences are the slimmer trim lineup and added standard equipment on the GLE 350 models.
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE.
4.2
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE
(445 reviews)
“One of the best cars I've ever driven! From the minute you step inside, it just oozes class, then when you start it, it sounds amazing! It's comfortable and consistent to drive, not lively or jumpy like some other turbos I've owned/driven.”
“The handling an ride are superior, although it is considered a luxury vehicle, it is lacking in luxury amenities.”