“Would highly recommend the GLE 350. Dependable. After leasing 3 different times and now owning the 4th one. I tried a BMW X5 and after 6 months I hated it. Rode like a truck. So I went back to my GLE 350.”
Mercedes-Benz GLE: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 13, 2026
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is a midsize luxury SUV built around comfort, family space, and an upscale, screen-heavy cabin. It is known for a broad powertrain range that stretches from an everyday four-cylinder to plug-in hybrid, six-cylinder, and V8 models.
The GLE name replaced M-Class in 2016, but its role has stayed consistent: it is Mercedes-Benz’s core luxury family SUV. Comfort, cabin space, technology, and a broad spread of power have mattered more than hard-edged sportiness. The 2020 redesign added more room, a highly digital dashboard, and three-row versions. Since the 2024 refresh, stronger voice controls and wider use of electrified powertrains have kept that formula current.
Strengths
- Comfort and everyday luxury remain the GLE’s priorities rather than hard-edged sportiness.
- The cabin is roomy enough for family duty, and some versions since 2020 have included a third row.
- Twin dashboard screens have anchored the cabin since 2020, while the 2024 refresh brought a newer interface and stronger voice control.
- The 2026 GLE 450e plug-in hybrid was rated for 49 miles of electric driving.
- In 2026, maximum towing capacity was rated at 7,700 pounds.
Who it's for
The GLE best fits families who want the comfort and polish of a Mercedes-Benz without moving to a full-size SUV. It makes sense for commuting, road trips, school runs, and occasional towing, while the stronger trims suit shoppers who want extra power and the plug-in hybrid suits those who can charge at home.
Mercedes-Benz GLE lineup
The GLE 350 is the everyday entry model, while the GLE 350 4MATIC adds all-wheel drive for drivers who want more traction in poor weather. Since the 2024 refresh, the GLE 450e 4MATIC has served as the plug-in hybrid choice for shoppers who can make use of electric driving. Step up to the GLE 450 4MATIC for six-cylinder power without going all the way to a V8. The GLE 580 4MATIC sits at the top of the regular lineup with V8 power for buyers who value stronger acceleration and towing muscle.
Mercedes-Benz GLE generations
From 2016 to 2026, the GLE spans two generations. The current 4th Generation — W167/V167 arrived for 2020, following the 3rd Generation — W166 (2016–2019).
4th Generation — W167/V167 (2020–2026)
The 2020 redesign brought a roomier cabin, twin 12.3-inch screens, updated safety technology, and four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and V8 powertrains with varying levels of hybrid assistance. A 2024 refresh revised the styling and touchscreen system while expanding electrification.
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2026
The GLE 450 gains AMG-style bodywork, but the rest of the SUV lineup largely carries over.
2025Trim changes
A rear-wheel-drive GLE 350 becomes the entry model, and a fingerprint reader becomes standard.
2024Mid-cycle update
Revised styling, a newer touchscreen system, more hybrid assistance, and the GLE 450e plug-in hybrid arrive.
2023
Only new metallic paint colors distinguish this final pre-refresh year.
2022
Automatic high-beam headlights become standard across the lineup.
2021
Ambient interior lighting and wireless phone charging become standard.
2020New generation
A full redesign brings more cabin space, twin digital displays, updated safety technology, new engines, and the GLE SUV’s first third row.
3rd Generation — W166 (2016–2019)
This is the refreshed third-generation M-Class under its new GLE name. It received updated styling and cabin controls for 2016, while the family expanded with the GLE Coupe and a plug-in hybrid.
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2019Trim changes
The GLE 400 replaces the GLE 350 with a twin-turbo V6 and standard AWD, while the GLE 550e plug-in hybrid leaves the lineup.
2018Trim changes
The regular GLE SUV lineup carries over without a broad styling, equipment, or hardware update.
2017Trim changes
Minor feature revisions accompany an otherwise unchanged lineup.
2016Mid-cycle update
The M-Class becomes the GLE with refreshed styling, revised cabin controls, selectable drive modes, and a new plug-in hybrid. The GLE Coupe also debuts.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Mercedes-Benz GLE.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of vehicle is the Mercedes-Benz GLE?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is a midsize luxury SUV built mainly for comfort, family space, and everyday usefulness. Its range stretches from a four-cylinder model to plug-in hybrid, six-cylinder, and V8 versions.
Does the Mercedes-Benz GLE come as an SUV or a coupe?
The GLE name has covered both a traditional SUV and the more style-focused GLE Coupe. The regular SUV puts more emphasis on family usefulness, while the Coupe trades some practicality for a sportier shape and driving character.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLE more comfortable or sporty?
The GLE is comfort-focused first. Its roomy cabin, heated front seats, large screens, and broad engine range suit relaxed daily driving, while higher-powered and AMG-flavored versions add stronger performance and more aggressive styling.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLE a good family SUV?
Yes. The GLE has a roomy cabin and useful cargo space, and some gasoline versions seat up to seven with a third row. Plug-in hybrid models seat five, so families needing seven seats should check the exact vehicle.
Does the Mercedes-Benz GLE come as a hybrid?
Yes. Plug-in hybrids appear as the older GLE 550e and newer GLE 450e. Refreshed gasoline models also use 48-volt hybrid assistance, but they do not plug in or provide the GLE 450e’s electric-only driving range.
How much can a Mercedes-Benz GLE tow?
Recent GLE models are rated to tow up to 7,700 pounds. The exact limit depends on the vehicle, so check the rating for the specific model year and trim before towing.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLE the same vehicle as the old M-Class?
Yes. Mercedes-Benz renamed the M-Class as the GLE for 2016 and refreshed it at the same time. The current GLE generation began with the 2020 redesign, then received a substantial update for 2024.
Mercedes-Benz GLE Reviews
What owners are saying about the Mercedes-Benz GLE.
4.2
Mercedes-Benz GLE
(8,399 reviews)
“The car is smooth driving, fuel efficient, has a lot of nice upgrades, convenient for children, is affordable.”
“A very comfortable driving experience knowing that it has advanced technology to ensure that you are also kept safe and comfortable.”
“Love the performance.. the power the style and respect you receive driving this vehicle”
“Vehículo espacioso para toda la familia. Económico en rendimiento de gasolina. Tecnología ultra moderna en pantalla interior, sistema de navegación y de sonido. Controles remotos desde la aplicación móvil muy útiles. Ofrece máxima seguridad con sistema de cámaras y sensores para el manejo y estacionamientos.”
“The look of the vehicle is impressive, but how it handles and the comfort is amazing.”