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About the Mercedes-Benz GLE
AI-generatedThe Mercedes-Benz GLE is a premium mid-size SUV that replaced the M-Class in 2015, offering a sophisticated blend of luxury, technology, and performance. Available with a wide range of petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, the GLE competes directly with the BMW X5 and Audi Q7. The current generation (launched in 2019) features cutting-edge tech including MBUX infotainment, advanced driver assistance systems, and optional E-Active Body Control suspension that can lean into corners and even bounce the car to free it from sand or mud. With seating for five as standard (seven with optional third row), the GLE combines a spacious, beautifully crafted interior with impressive road manners and genuine off-road capability thanks to standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The performance-oriented AMG variants (GLE 53 and GLE 63) deliver exhilarating performance, while the GLE 350de plug-in hybrid offers over 60 miles of electric range and company car tax benefits. Despite its size, the GLE feels agile and composed on UK roads, whilst providing the commanding driving position and practicality that buyers in this segment demand.
Known Issues
Known Issues
W166 (2015-2019)
2015-2019
- Air suspension compressor failures, particularly on higher mileage examples, costing £800-£1,500 to replace
- DEF (AdBlue) system faults on diesel models causing warning lights and potential starting issues
- Gearbox hesitation and jerky shifts, sometimes resolved with software updates
- Electrical gremlins including faulty sensors and intermittent warning messages
- Panoramic sunroof drainage blockages leading to water ingress in footwells
- Premature brake disc wear, especially on heavier AMG models
W167 (2019-present)
2019-present
- MBUX infotainment system glitches and freezing, usually fixed with software updates
- 48-volt mild hybrid system issues on some petrol models requiring specialist diagnosis
- Air suspension faults though less common than previous generation
- Rear differential oil leaks on some early production examples
- Drive-away protection system false alarms preventing starting
- Plug-in hybrid charging system faults and battery degradation on GLE 350de models
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Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£2,400-£3,800
Insurance Group
42-50
Average Service
£650
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£52,000 - £72,000
£42,000 - £58,000
£32,000 - £45,000
£15,000 - £22,000
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Supremely comfortable ride quality, especially with air suspension
- Luxurious, high-quality interior with excellent build quality
- Advanced technology including MBUX infotainment and comprehensive safety systems
- Strong engine range including efficient diesels and powerful AMG variants
- Spacious cabin with generous boot space and optional third-row seating
- Excellent refinement with minimal road and wind noise
- Genuine off-road capability thanks to 4MATIC and optional off-road packages
Photo by Mike Bird on Pexels
Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2020 - First full production year of W167 generation with early bugs resolved, before supply chain issues affected build quality. Benefits from MBUX updates and improved reliability over launch models.
- 2022 - Mature W167 model with further software refinements and updated mild hybrid systems. Many early production issues resolved, yet still modern with latest safety tech and warranty coverage on newer examples.
Worst Years
- 2016 - Early W166 models suffering from gearbox programming issues and higher incidence of air suspension failures. Also lacks the updated infotainment and safety features of later models.
- 2019 - Launch year of W167 generation with typical early production teething problems including MBUX software glitches and some build quality inconsistencies. Better to choose late 2019 or 2020 models.
Buying Checklist
Engine6 items
- Check for oil leaks around engine seals and turbocharger unions
- Listen for unusual turbo whine or rattles on diesel engines
- Ensure smooth cold start with no excessive smoke on diesels
- Verify AdBlue system is functioning without warning lights
- On plug-in hybrids, test electric-only mode for full claimed range
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The GLE was the first Mercedes to feature the innovative E-Active Body Control suspension which uses cameras to scan the road ahead and adjust each wheel independently, and can even make the car 'bounce' to escape soft ground.
Mercedes-Benz tests the GLE's air suspension over 3 million cycles before production to ensure durability, yet it remains one of the most common failure points.
The GLE 350de plug-in hybrid has a larger 31.2kWh battery than most PHEV SUVs, giving it a genuine 60+ mile electric range - enough for most UK daily commutes.
GLE Coupe variants share over 80% of their components with the regular GLE, differing mainly in body panels and rear suspension tuning.
Alternatives to Consider
BMW X5
6/10Direct rival with sharper handling, slightly lower running costs, and excellent engine range. Better driver engagement but less refined ride.
Audi Q7
6/10Offers standard seven seats, superb interior quality, and advanced technology. More practical for families but less engaging to drive than the GLE.
Range Rover Sport
Superior off-road ability and prestige badge with commanding presence. More expensive to run but offers unmatched luxury and British heritage appeal.
Porsche Cayenne
6/10Best driving dynamics in class with genuine sports car performance. More expensive but better residuals and sharper handling for keen drivers.
Owner Tips
- 1Budget for air suspension maintenance - have it inspected annually and listen for compressor noise. Consider extended warranty coverage for this expensive system.
- 2On diesel models, ensure AdBlue is always topped up with quality DEF fluid and never let it run completely empty to avoid costly system purges.
- 3Keep panoramic sunroof drains clear by flushing them annually - blockages cause expensive water damage to interior electrics.
- 4Use premium fuel in petrol models as recommended - cheaper fuel can cause engine management issues and reduced performance.
- 5Service plug-in hybrid models at specialists familiar with high-voltage systems to avoid unnecessary main dealer costs.
- 6Check service history meticulously - missed services can void warranty and accelerate wear on complex systems.
- 7Allow the engine to warm fully before demanding performance, especially in cold weather, to protect turbochargers and gearbox.
- 8
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