Hey there! Thinking about which luxury SUV is the best choice? If you’re looking at the market, you’ve surely heard of the Mercedes-Benz GLE. The 2024 version has arrived with some interesting new features, and I’ve gathered everything for us to have a straightforward chat about it. Without further ado, let’s dive deep into this car and see if it’s really worth the asking price.
2024 GLE: Repositioning the SUV in the Premium Segment
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, a mid-size luxury SUV, maintains its loyal customer base while facing stiff competition from rivals like BMW, Volvo, and Genesis. This model aims to combine luxury, cutting-edge technology, and notably, off-road capability—a feature that sets it apart from some direct competitors. Its versatility makes it an attractive option for those seeking a vehicle that performs well in various situations.
This new generation of the GLE, in addition to all the refinement and sophistication Mercedes has accustomed us to, has a more adventurous feel, you know? Especially with the optional air suspension, which is a great feature for those who enjoy off-roading. And of course, we can’t forget the cutting-edge technology present in every detail of the car.
2024 GLE Facelift: Updated Exterior and Interior Design
For 2024, the GLE underwent a significant facelift, with changes to the front bumper, front grille, and new lighting elements, as well as redesigned wheels. These changes give the SUV a more modern and elegant look, aligning it with the latest Mercedes-Benz visual identity. The car has a fresher look.
Inside, the steering wheel with touch-sensitive controls and chrome-finished air vents provide a sense of refinement and modernity. The new two-tone upholstery options add a touch of personalization, allowing customers to choose a look they prefer. The digital instrument panel is a showstopper, with its customizable displays.
Plug-in Hybrid: The New GLE450e and Its Benefits
The big news for the 2024 lineup is the GLE450e model, a plug-in hybrid that combines a four-cylinder turbo engine with an electric motor. This version aims to offer electric autonomy for daily use, significantly reducing gasoline consumption on shorter trips. And it’s not just about savings; the performance is top-notch as well.
The GLE450e’s electric motor, along with its 23.3 kWh battery, offers an all-electric range of up to 53 miles in real-world tests, which is sufficient for most urban commutes. If you’re thinking about having a more eco-friendly car but don’t want to compromise on luxury and performance, the plug-in hybrid is a great option.
GLE Prices: Which Version is Right for You?
Prices for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE range from $63,800 to $87,850, depending on the version and optional extras chosen. The article suggests the basic GLE350 with a four-cylinder turbo engine as it offers a good balance between performance and fuel economy. If you’re looking for something more affordable, this is a very interesting option.
But if you’re not too worried about price and want a more complete car, it’s worth investing in some optional packages, such as the Premium package, which includes a Burmester sound system, a 360-degree camera, and a 115V outlet. The Warmth and Comfort package is also very interesting, with heated armrests and door panels.
Performance: GLE350, GLE450, GLE450e, and GLE580
The GLE offers several engine options, each with its own characteristics and performance. The GLE350 model features a 255 hp four-cylinder turbo engine, available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (4Matic). The GLE450 has a 362 hp inline six-cylinder turbo engine, all-wheel drive, and a 48-volt hybrid system, delivering a much sportier experience.
The GLE450e, in turn, combines a 2.0-liter turbo engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 381 hp. The top-of-the-line GLE580 is equipped with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with up to 504 hp, for those seeking maximum performance. The mid-range versions are the most interesting for those seeking a balance between economy and performance.
Range, Consumption, and Real-World Tests of the 2024 GLE
The fuel consumption of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE varies depending on the version and driving style. Surprisingly, the GLE450 with a six-cylinder engine has the same estimated consumption as the GLE350 four-cylinder, with 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The GLE580, with its V8 engine, obviously has higher consumption: 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.
In real-world tests, the GLE350 4Matic achieved 25 mpg, the GLE450 4Matic 23 mpg, and the GLE450e hybrid 25 mpg in hybrid mode. Interestingly, in a comparative test, the BMW X5, a direct competitor, showed better performance, with 28 mpg. It’s worth analyzing your usage profile to choose the model that best suits your needs.
