The GLE from Mercedes is the original SUV when back in the late 90’s the ML Mercedes was designed to replace the venerable G Class. Incidentally it started the premium SUV segment which now almost all premium manufacturers represented.
The GLE is the a rebadged ML of today with recent styling updates designed to take the fight to BMW’s X5, Porsches Cayenne and many more. The front retains the floating star grille which has received slight updates in design (good luck noticing these). Our test unit came with the excellent adaptive MULTIBEAM LED headlamps with LED daytime lights (R23k). Our test unit also came with the R65k AMG Line exterior packs that features 20inch wheels and AMG body styling that are worth the investment. Side steps are more a design feature but offer practical assistance where required.
Rear changes on the facelift models are not easily noticeable but the LED rear lights look the part at night. Privacy glass at the rear comes standard and gives it that “Minister car” vibe. The large glass Panoramic roof comes standard on the GLE450d with a tilt and slide function.
The facelift GLE gets the latest-generation infotainment, i.e. the MBUX multimedia system comes with a new user interface. The system is both touchscreen friendly but most importantly for driving, it has a toggle control between the front seats. The large infotainment screen doesn’t look as trendy as recent “Tablet” style screens but retains class and functionality.
The front seats are electrically adjusted with heating function (all standard on GLE 460d). Ambient lighting comes with varying colours to suite the mood of the occupants. Rear seat space is one of the best in the segment allowing rear passengers to stretch on long journeys.
The highlight of the 450d is the 3.0L Turbodiesel 6-cylinder engine credited with 270kW plus 15kW from the electric motor. Torque is a tree stump pulling 750Nm that comes in at low revs. Mercedes claims a 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds and when you stomp the accelerator, this figure feels conservative. The 9G Tronic gearbox drives all wheels (4Matic). The surge from the engine is addictive as you notice passengers get pushed to their seats. Stamp that pedal as much as you can since fuel efficiency is rather good as we averaged 9.5l/100km with spirited take offs.
Priced at R2, 032,547 as standard, the GLE 450d has no direct competition as the X5 no longer has the 40d option and Porsche has replaced diesel models with Hybrid set up. The price does seem steep but the spec and performance is worth the price. The GLE300d though is a serious deterrent to the GLE450d.
