The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE Class SUV marks a significant evolution in the luxury SUV market, transitioning from the M-Class to the GLE designation. For prospective buyers and automotive enthusiasts, understanding the safety ratings of this vehicle is paramount. This article delves into the safety performance of the 2016-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE Class SUV, focusing on side-impact crash test results.
The safety evaluation applies to models manufactured between 2016 and 2019, which are essentially rebranded and updated versions of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class redesigned in 2012. It’s important to note that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) ratings for the GLE Class are based on tests conducted on the earlier M-Class models, specifically a 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 Bluetec 4-door 4wd. This model was equipped with standard front and rear head curtain airbags and standard front seat-mounted torso airbags, safety features that are crucial for occupant protection.
Mercedes-Benz provided data from two side-impact tests to the IIHS. 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. Interestingly, the presence or absence of rear side torso airbags had minimal impact on rear occupant safety in these tests. This is attributed to the vehicle’s design and size; the force of the intruding barrier in a side-impact scenario is relatively far from the rear seating area in a large SUV like the GLE Class. Crucially, all occupants benefit from the standard side curtain airbags, which provide significant head protection in side collisions.
The 2016-2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE Class SUV achieved an overall evaluation of “Good” in side-impact crash testing. This “Good” rating extends across various critical aspects of the vehicle’s safety performance:
- Structure and Safety Cage: Rated “Good,” indicating that the structural integrity of the GLE Class effectively resists intrusion during a side impact, maintaining occupant space.
- Driver Injury Measures: All injury measures for the driver – Head/Neck, Torso, and Pelvis/Leg – were rated “Good.” This signifies a low risk of significant injuries to the driver in a similar side-impact collision.
- Driver Head Protection: Also rated “Good,” highlighting the effectiveness of the airbags and vehicle structure in protecting the driver’s head during a side impact.
- Rear Passenger Injury Measures: Similar to the driver, all injury measures for the rear passenger – Head/Neck, Torso, and Pelvis/Leg – received a “Good” rating. This confirms that rear occupants are also well-protected in side-impact scenarios.
- Rear Passenger Head Protection: Rated “Good,” reinforcing the effectiveness of safety systems for rear passenger head protection.
While the detailed technical measurements from the crash tests are available, the overarching takeaway is the consistent “Good” rating across all evaluated categories. For consumers considering a 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE Class SUV, this “Good” rating in side-impact testing offers reassurance regarding the vehicle’s ability to protect occupants in the event of a side collision. This, combined with Mercedes-Benz’s reputation for safety and luxury, makes the 2016 GLE Class a compelling option in the SUV segment.
Prospective buyers are encouraged to review the full safety report and consider other safety ratings and features when making their vehicle purchase decisions. The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE Class SUV stands as a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety, offering a secure and luxurious driving experience.
