2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

　　

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Review

byAlex NishimotoCorrespondent

　　Alex Nishimoto has worked in the automotive industry since 2007. He was a staff writer for MotorTrend for 10 years and since then has contributed to CNET, PRI, AutoWise and other publications.

　　Still fresh off a 2020 redesign, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE is the German automaker's latest iteration of the midsize luxury SUV that helped kick off the segment more than 25 years ago, when it was called the M-Class. Like its pioneering premium sport-ute forebear, the 2022 GLE offers a blend of SUV capability, luxury car plushness and cutting-edge technology.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class GLE 350 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$209/mo  for GLE-Class GLE 350

　　GLE-Class GLE 350

　　GLE 350 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) - $56,150 MSRPGLE 350 4MATIC 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) (Most Popular) - $58,650 MSRPGLE 450 4MATIC 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) - $63,950 MSRPAMG GLE 53 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) - $74,150 MSRPGLE 580 4MATIC 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) - $80,900 MSRPAMG GLE 63 S 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 9A) - $116,850 MSRP

　　vs

　　$229/mo

　　Avg. Large SUV

　　Today's GLE also offers plenty of performance options, with variants like the 429-horsepower AMG GLE 53 and 603-hp AMG GLE 63 S. One of the GLE's highlights is its MBUX infotainment system, which is easy to use and impressive to look at. The GLE competes with other midsize luxury SUVs including the Audi Q7, BMW X5 and Genesis GV80, and we think it's the best of the bunch. Take a look at our Expert Rating to find out why we like it so much.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Great

　　8.4

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.0/10

　　How does the GLE-Class drive? Even the base four-cylinder provides sufficient thrust. The GLE 350 we tested accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds, which is an average time for this class of SUV. Stepping up to the 450's six-cylinder engine gives you the speed to match the quickest SUVs in the segment, needing only 5.3 seconds to get to 60 mph at our test track. Braking performance is likewise strong, and the brakes are easy to control in everyday driving.

　　Steering effort is light, but steering is precise. While the GLE isn't as naturally sporty as a Porsche Cayenne or Audi Q8, it's composed enough to not feel clumsy. The base engine's transmission definitely favors economical driving, and shifts can be a little harsh for a luxury vehicle. But stepping up to the GLE 450 eliminates most if not all of these issues if you are able to spring for it.

　　

Comfort

7.5/10

　　How comfortable is the GLE-Class? The GLE's interior is serene and quiet, and the front seats with available massage provide terrific comfort. The rear seats don't slide or recline but remain pleasant for the long haul. Our test vehicle had the optional Acoustic package, and we found it kept exterior sounds well muted. The climate control system is likewise strong. You can just set it and forget it, and the heated and cooled cupholders and the heated armrests are bonuses.

　　The biggest issue we have is the optional air suspension. There's a floatiness at highway speeds that's a little disconcerting plus a lot of extraneous minor body motions. Bumps are impactful too. We encourage you to test-drive vehicles with the air and standard suspension back to back.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below