The 2017 Mercedes-benz Gle emerges as a versatile luxury SUV, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and advanced technology. This model year boasts a range of trims, each catering to different preferences and needs, from the well-equipped GLE 350 to the high-performance AMG GLE 63 S. Let’s delve into the specifics of what the 2017 GLE brings to the table.
Trim Levels and Feature Highlights
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE lineup presents a variety of models, each with a distinct set of standard and optional features.
GLE 350: The Well-Rounded Entry Point
The GLE 350 serves as the foundation of the GLE class, equipped with a generous array of standard features. Exterior highlights include 19-inch alloy wheels, ensuring a commanding stance, and LED daytime running lights and taillights for enhanced visibility and a modern aesthetic. Front and rear foglights further improve visibility in adverse conditions, while automatic wipers and a sunroof add convenience and open-air enjoyment. Practicality is enhanced with a roof rack and a power liftgate, while rear privacy glass adds a touch of exclusivity. Power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors round out the exterior feature set.
Inside the GLE 350, dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized comfort for both driver and passengers. Wood trim accents the cabin, adding a touch of luxury, and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel allows for optimal driving position. Heated and power front seats with driver memory functions provide personalized comfort and convenience. MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery offers a durable and refined seating surface, complemented by LED accent lighting that sets a sophisticated mood.
Mercedes’ COMAND electronics interface, featuring an 8-inch display, serves as the central hub for infotainment and vehicle settings. A backup camera enhances parking and maneuvering, while a 4G LTE data connection provides in-car Wi-Fi capabilities. Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity allows for seamless smartphone integration. An eight-speaker audio system with HD radio, a CD player, and a USB port delivers a comprehensive audio experience. A suite of standard safety features further enhances the GLE 350’s appeal.
Optional Packages for the GLE 350:
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Premium 1 Package: Elevates convenience and technology with keyless ignition and entry, a navigation system, satellite radio, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, a rear 115-volt power outlet, and blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning systems for enhanced safety.
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Premium 2 Package: Builds upon Premium 1, adding adaptive LED headlights and automatic high-beam headlights for superior nighttime visibility, heated and cooled cupholders for added comfort, and rear sunshades for passenger convenience.
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Premium 3 Package: Further enhances safety and driver assistance with adaptive cruise control, a collision avoidance system, lane keeping assist, and an automated parking system.
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Exterior Sport package: Adds a sporty aesthetic with 20-inch wheels and an AMG body kit.
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Night package: Combines the Exterior Sport package with gloss-black exterior trim pieces and wheels for a distinctive, darker appearance.
Leather upholstery is available as a standalone option for those seeking an upgraded interior ambiance.
GLE 400: Enhanced Power and Features
Stepping up to the GLE 400 brings a more powerful turbocharged engine and an expanded list of standard features. It incorporates elements from the Premium 1 and Exterior Sport packages of the GLE 350. Additionally, the GLE 400 boasts multicolor ambient interior lighting, allowing for customizable cabin ambiance, and standard leather upholstery, elevating the interior’s luxury feel.
Notably, the GLE 400 is the only trim level eligible for the Off-Road package, which includes low-range gearing, a specialized Dynamic Select calibration for off-road driving modes, and a front underbody skid plate for added protection during adventurous excursions.
GLE 550e Plug-In Hybrid: Efficiency Meets Luxury
The GLE 550e plug-in hybrid prioritizes efficiency without compromising luxury. It includes the Premium 1 package features and adds leather upholstery and unique cabin treatments that distinguish it as the hybrid variant.
AMG GLE 43: Sport-Focused Performance
Replacing the GLE 400 in the AMG lineup, the AMG GLE 43 emphasizes performance and sporty aesthetics. It features a more potent engine, AMG-exclusive 20-inch wheels, an AMG-tuned adaptive air suspension for enhanced handling, and a sport exhaust system for a more aggressive sound. Exterior styling upgrades further differentiate it, while a flat-bottom steering wheel and aluminum shift paddles and pedals create a sportier driving environment. Simulated leather upholstery and the contents of the Premium 1 package are also standard.
AMG GLE 63 and AMG GLE 63 S: Top-Tier Performance SUVs
The AMG GLE 63 elevates performance even further, incorporating features from the GLE 43, along with the Premium 2 and Parking Assist packages. A turbocharged V8 engine delivers exhilarating power, while larger brakes and active stabilizer bars enhance handling and control. Front and rear parking sensors add convenience, and special leather upholstery and heated and ventilated seats provide premium comfort.
The range-topping AMG GLE 63 S pushes performance boundaries with an even more powerful version of the turbocharged V8 engine, larger 21-inch wheels, a carbon-fiber engine cover, a sport steering wheel, a suede headliner, and unique upholstery, solidifying its position as the ultimate performance GLE.
Parking Assist Package:
Available across all trims, the Parking Assist package includes a 360-degree camera system for enhanced visibility and the automated parking system for effortless parking maneuvers.
Standalone Options:
Beyond packages, the 2017 GLE offers a range of standalone options to personalize your vehicle. These include a panoramic sunroof for expansive views, a trailer hitch for towing needs, adaptive air and off-road suspensions for enhanced versatility, tri-zone climate control for customized passenger comfort, multi-contour front seats with massage for ultimate driver and passenger relaxation, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a rear-seat entertainment system to keep passengers entertained, and upgraded audio systems, including a 13-speaker Harman Kardon or a top-of-the-line 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class provides four distinct powertrain options, catering to various performance preferences. All-wheel drive (4Matic) is standard on all models except the GLE 350, where it is an available option replacing the standard rear-wheel drive. Automatic engine stop-start technology is standard across the engine range, aimed at improving fuel efficiency.
Engine Specifications and Fuel Economy
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GLE 350: Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a seven-speed automatic transmission. EPA fuel economy is estimated at 20 mpg combined (18 city/23 highway) for the rear-wheel-drive version and 19 mpg combined (18 city/22 highway) for the all-wheel-drive (4Matic) version. Independent testing has shown a 0-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds for the GLE 350 4Matic.
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GLE 400: Features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine generating 329 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. EPA estimates are 20 mpg combined (18 city/23 highway). A low-range transfer case and locking center differential are optional for enhanced off-road capability.
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GLE 550e Plug-in Hybrid: Combines a 114-hp electric motor with the turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine and a seven-speed automatic-based transmission, resulting in a combined output of 436 hp and 479 lb-ft. Mercedes-Benz claims a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 5.3 seconds. EPA fuel economy is rated at 43 mpg equivalent when utilizing a fully charged battery and 21 mpg in standard hybrid operation. The electric-only driving range is approximately 18 miles.
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AMG GLE 63: Houses a turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 engine producing 550 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque.
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AMG GLE 63 S: Employs a tuned version of the same turbocharged 5.5-liter V8, delivering 577 hp and 561 lb-ft of torque. Both AMG GLE 63 models utilize a specially calibrated seven-speed automatic transmission. EPA fuel economy for both is estimated at 15 mpg combined (13 city/17 highway). Mercedes-Benz states a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds for the AMG GLE 63 and an even quicker 4.2 seconds for the AMG GLE 63 S.
Towing Capacity
When properly equipped, the rear-wheel-drive GLE 350 can tow up to 6,600 pounds. The GLE 350 4Matic and all other GLE models offer a higher towing capacity of up to 7,200 pounds.
Conclusion
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE stands out as a compelling luxury SUV, offering a wide spectrum of choices from the well-appointed GLE 350 to the exhilarating AMG performance models. With a range of trims, powertrain options, and customizable features, the 2017 GLE caters to diverse needs and preferences, making it a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment.
