Mercedes GLE SUV review

This ain’t Mercedes’ first rodeo. Indeed, the Mercedes GLE that you see here is just the latest in a long line of US-built luxury SUVs from the German brand. 

It first dipped a toe into what would soon become a very busy pool indeed when it launched the M Class in 1998. It proved immensely successful, and its third generation was rechristened GLE in 2015. That name change helped buyers more easily understand where it sits in Mercedes’ lineup, above stablemates like the GLA and GLC SUVs, and corresponding with the Mercedes E Class saloon and Estate.

So the latest GLE is actually the fourth generation Mercedes luxury SUV to roll off Mercedes’ production line in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. It has a plush interior, seven seats and an impressive line up of petrol and diesel engines, plus a plug-in hybrid option for those who want to go green or to save a few quid in company car tax.

The luxury SUV class plays home to the stylish and practical talents of accomplished seven-seat rivals that include the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Land Rover Discovery and Volvo XC90. But does the GLE have what it takes to mount a serious challenge to the class leaders?

That's what we'll explore over the next few pages, and we'll also tell you which of the multitude of engine and trim options make the most sense. And don’t forget, our New Car Buying service can net you huge savings on the Mercedes GLE and hundreds of other great cars, and getting a great deal is as easy as apple pie.