The article was originally produced on May 5, 2020, some facts and prices may have changed since then.

The GLE is Mercedes’ sharpest knife in the box against the main competitor BMW X5 and I have test driven it.

Among the large SUVs, the BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE undoubtedly belong at the top of the throne. The buyers of these car models know what they want and are incredibly picky. Therefore, the cars are filled to the brim with technology, performance and comfort. The new GLE is no exception and it is almost difficult to grasp all the things that can be had if you tick everything when you order your GLE.

In terms of appearance, compared to its predecessor, the new GLE is slightly softer in its forms

In terms of appearance, compared to its predecessor, the new GLE is slightly softer in its shapes and you get the feeling that it is wider. It has also grown quite a bit since the last generation, ten centimeters in length to be exact. Now it stands more firmly on the ground with a firm grip on the asphalt.

If you choose the AMG package that the test car has, the appearance becomes even beefier. Compared to the BMW X5, the design is significantly different and it is easy to tell the cars apart. Which one you prefer is completely personal. And then there is a little bit about Mercedes versus BMW, even though the brands come from the same country, there is a lot that is different between them. What we can confirm already now, however, is that none of the cars are bad, quite the opposite!

If we are going to go into a little quick what the Mercedes model designations mean, GL stands for suv and E for size. In simple comparison, the A-, B-, C-, E- and S-Class models are available as regular cars and you will also find these in the SUV program. GLA, GLB, GLC, GLE and GLS. Then there is also the traditional G-Class. You can read previous articles about the following models here at Enliven. G500, GLB, GLC 63 S and Maybach GLS.

In terms of space, you sit incredibly well in the GLE if you are four people. Three adults can fit in the back, but two are optimal. Then you have plenty of space and can fold down the armrest in the middle for extra comfort. What is also new is that you can get the new GLE with a third row of seats in the back that fold down into the floor if it is not needed. The two sitting at the back should not be aspiring basketball players as their height is clearly limited. With the third row of seats folded down, the GLE swallows 630 liters in the trunk. If you fold all the seats back, 2,055 liters can be stored.

As a driver and front passenger, there is hardly anything to complain about. You also have heat in the center armrest and the doors when you switch on the seat heating. If only the passenger wants the heat on, only one side of the armrest in the middle is heated. Of course, there is also a fan and massage in the chairs. There are now no analogue gauges, just a large wide digital screen that stretches from the left side of the right to the center of the dashboard. The higher half of the screen is pressure sensitive and this is where the navigation and infotainment system is controlled. The display in front of the steering wheel can be configured in a variety of views to suit your taste.

The incredibly delicious interior lighting behind all panels can be changed in color and intensity. From sober blue light that brings to mind the ice hotel in Jukkasjärvi to colors that take you to a Thai bar. Nowadays there is a system called ”Energizing Comfort” which is a series of different functions such as air conditioning, light and sound that work together for maximum comfort for those in the car. Perfect if you are stressed and need to unwind or tired and need to be refreshed.

On the road, comfort is no worse. Depending on which equipment and engine option you choose, the car can be fitted with the ”Active Body Control” system. The system has cameras that read the road ahead and adapt the suspension accordingly. A car like this really doesn’t feel bad about a chubby V8 with an abundance of horsepower. But the six-cylinder engine with 367 horses in the GLE 450 does an incredibly good job and the ride is silky smooth. The power finds its way down to all four wheels via a 9-speed gearbox. Of course, it is possible to get the GLE with a V8, but then you have to cough up a little more money, but on the other hand you get an AMG emblem on the car and a few more horses, at most up to 612 horsepower in the GLE 63 S.

The Mercedes GLE gives the archrival BMW X5 a serious match

Although the majority of customers who buy a GLE will probably not use it particularly far from paved roads, the car is actually competent even in relatively difficult terrain. In a special driving program, with the help of the driveline and the suspension, the car can get out of a situation if the driver happens to get stuck.

The Mercedes GLE gives the archrival BMW X5 a serious match. Which one emerges as the winner, I leave it unsaid, as what is mentioned above is very personal, what the common man appreciates. But the fact that it’s hard to find things to criticize about a car like this almost makes me feel like a bad motoring journalist. When it comes to this class, very little if anything is simply left to chance. 

Mercedes GLE 450 4Matic

Basic price from	SEK 699,000
Engine	3-liter straight six-cylinder gasoline engine with electric compressor, 367 hp. Torque 500 Nm
Transmission	Front engine, 9-speed automatic, four-wheel drive
Acceleration	0-100 in 5.7 seconds
Top speed	250 km/h
Fuel consumption mixed driving according to the manufacturer	0.9 l/mile
Weight	2,264 kg
Guarantees	New car 2 years, carriage damage 3 years, rust 30 years, paint 3 years
Web	www.mercedes-benz.se