The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE is a luxury SUV that prioritizes safety, and understanding its safety ratings is crucial for potential buyers and owners. This article delves into the side impact safety performance of the 2016 GLE, drawing from official testing data to provide a clear and expert analysis. It’s important to note that the GLE model name was introduced in 2016, representing a renaming of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class. The safety ratings discussed here for the 2016-2019 GLE models are based on tests conducted on the predecessor, the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class.
The data originates from tests performed on the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class, specifically a 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 Bluetec 4-door 4wd. These tests are relevant to the 2016 GLE because the GLE is essentially a refreshed and renamed version of the M-Class (W166 chassis). The vehicle tested was equipped with standard front and rear head curtain airbags and standard front seat-mounted torso airbags, safety features that are also integral to the 2016 Benz Gle.
To determine the side impact rating, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) relies on tests provided by Mercedes-Benz. Interestingly, the side ratings are a combination of two tests. The first test involved a 2012 ML 550 V8, which included standard rear side torso airbags. The second test was performed on a 2014 ML 350 Bluetec diesel V6 without the optional rear side torso airbags. Despite the difference in rear side airbag presence, the combined ratings are used because the tests showed minimal difference in rear occupant protection whether rear side torso airbags were present or not. It’s important to remember that even without rear side torso airbags, rear passengers in the 2016 Benz GLE (and tested ML models) still benefit from standard side curtain airbags. The reason for the limited impact of rear side torso airbags in these tests is attributed to the vehicle’s size and long wheelbase (115 inches). In larger vehicles, the impact point in side collisions is often further away from the rear seating area.
Side impact evaluation ratings for the 2016 Benz GLE, reflecting ‘Good’ overall performance based on combined tests of predecessor ML-Class models.
The 2016 Benz GLE, mirroring the tested ML-Class, achieved a “Good” overall evaluation in side impact testing. This “Good” rating extends across all critical evaluation criteria:
- Overall Evaluation: Good (G)
- Structure and Safety Cage: Good (G)
- Driver Injury Measures:
- Head/Neck: Good (G)
- Torso: Good (G)
- Pelvis/Leg: Good (G)
- Driver Head Protection: Good (G)
- Rear Passenger Injury Measures:
- Head/Neck: Good (G)
- Torso: Good (G)
- Pelvis/Leg: Good (G)
- Rear Passenger Head Protection: Good (G)
This consistent “Good” performance across all categories indicates robust protection for both the driver and rear passengers in a side impact scenario for the 2016 Benz GLE. The structural integrity of the safety cage is paramount in side collisions, and the “Good” rating here reinforces the strong construction of the vehicle.
Further technical measurements from the tests provide deeper insights into the vehicle’s performance. The occupant compartment intrusion on the driver’s side was measured in two tests (VTS1115 and VTS1313). The B-pillar to longitudinal centerline of the driver’s seat showed negative values (-20.0 cm and -19.0 cm), indicating that the crush stopped short of the seat centerline in both tests. This limited intrusion is a positive sign for occupant safety space.
Measurements illustrating the limited occupant compartment intrusion in side impact tests relevant to the 2016 Benz GLE.
Detailed driver injury measures from the tests reveal specific data points. Head injury criterion (HIC-15) was low in both tests (64 and 52), indicating a low risk of head injury. Neck tension and compression forces were also minimal. Torso deflection measurements, both maximum and average, were relatively low (around 31mm and 28mm in the first test, even lower in the second), suggesting good protection for the driver’s torso. Pelvis and femur injury measures were also within acceptable ranges, further supporting the “Good” rating for driver injury measures.
Detailed measurements of driver injury indicators from side impact tests, demonstrating low risk of significant injuries in scenarios relevant to the 2016 Benz GLE.
Similarly, passenger injury measures for rear occupants were favorable. Head HIC-15 values (81 and 104) were slightly higher than for the driver but still within a safe range. Neck forces were again minimal. Torso and pelvis deflection measurements were comparable to driver measurements, indicating similar levels of protection for rear passengers in side impacts.
Measurements of rear passenger injury indicators from side impact tests, showing good levels of protection for occupants in the 2016 Benz GLE.
In conclusion, the “Good” side impact safety rating for the 2016 Benz GLE, based on rigorous testing of its predecessor, the ML-Class, underscores the vehicle’s commitment to safety. The consistent “Good” ratings across all injury measures, coupled with detailed technical data, provide a comprehensive picture of the 2016 GLE’s robust side impact protection. For those prioritizing safety in a luxury SUV, the 2016 Benz GLE presents a strong option with proven side impact performance.
