The Mercedes Benz GLE is positioned between the smaller GLC and the larger GLS. It first made its debut in 1997 (W163) and its production continued up to 2004. From 2005 to 2010, the second iteration of the GLE (W164) was in production. The third generation designated as W166 was manufactured from 2011 to 2018. The GLE is currently in its fourth generation of production known as W167.
The 2021 Mercedes Benz GLE comes with three engine options, a 2.0 L Turbocharged Petrol, a 2.0 L Turbocharged PHEV, and a 3.0 L Turbocharged Diesel connected to a 9-speed automatic transmission.
TO KICKSTART THE IMPORTATION PROCESS, CLICK HERE.
2021 Mercedes Benz GLE Grades
- Mercedes Benz GLE 350- This grade comes with 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, panoramic sunroof, power mirrors, a lane departure warning, power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, Apple Car Play & Android Auto, and a 12-volt power outlet.
- Mercedes Benz GLE 450- This grade features an MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3 touchscreen, Burmester sound system, satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, wireless phone charger, privacy glass, parking assist, and heated & ventilated front seats.
- Mercedes Benz AMG GLE 53- This grade boasts Nappa leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, hands-free access, a lane departure warning, parking sensors, a surround-view camera, Apple Car Play & Android Auto, Burmester sound system, and a heads-up display.
- Mercedes Benz AMG GLE 63– This grade has 21-inch alloy wheels, heated rear seats, multi-contour front seats with massage function, wireless charging pads, Apple Car Play & Android Auto, leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and privacy glass.
Interior
Legroom & Space
The 2021 Mercedes Benz GLE boasts a well-appointed interior that seamlessly blends luxury, comfort, and practicality. The dashboard is ergonomically arranged for ease of access and use. Soft touches and leather upholstery elevate the premium feel of the cabin. A customizable ambient lighting sets an appealing theme and mood that relaxes the mind. With enhanced connectivity between the vehicle’s technology and the occupant’s devices, the GLE caters to the entertainment needs of its passengers. With a seating arrangement for five, both the first and second rows offer plenty of legroom and headroom.
Cabin Storage
The 2021 Mercedes Benz GLE incorporates multiple storage compartments that are used to either keep or hold the gears of its occupants for ease of access and reach. The first row has a glove box, door panel storage, a center console, and two cupholders. The second row has two cupholders, door pockets, and jacket pockets.
Boot Space
The 2021 Mercedes Benz GLE offers 6300 liters of boot space when all the seats are in use and 2,055 liters of space when the second-row seats have been retracted.
Exterior
The 2021 GLE continues to showcase Mercedes’ commitment to crafting high-quality and luxurious vehicles that not only withstand the test of time but also turn heads wherever it traverses. A prominent grille that is either chrome-accented or furnished in gloss black lends this SUV a striking appearance stamping its authority and demeanor. High-beam LED headlights and daytime running lights add a contemporary flare. The lower fascia encompasses a distinctive bumper that is integrated with fog lights.
Sleek lines and sculpted surfaces dominate the side profile enhancing its dynamism for better performance and fuel efficiency. Some grades feature roof rails for additional cargo room. The GLE’s wide body kit lends it a muscular look. The side mirrors are integrated with auto-dimming functions injecting more allure. The coupe has a gently sloping roofline where it integrates with a subtle roof spoiler at the rear.
The rear encompasses adaptive LED taillights and turn signals that match the headlights for a cohesive look. A roof spoiler is present lending the GLE a sporty appearance. A dual exhaust outlet is integrated into the bumper maintaining a clean and elegant look.
2021 Mercedes Benz GLE Safety Features
The 2021 Mercedes Benz GLE encompasses a brake assist, a blind spot monitor, a lane departure warning, a rear-cross traffic alert, a tire pressure monitoring system, a lane-keep assist, multiple airbags, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera.
2021 Mercedes Benz GLE Fuel Consumption
2021 Mercedes Benz GLE 2.0 L Turbocharged Petrol engine consumption- 10.3 km/l on average
2021 Mercedes Benz GLE 3.0 L Turbocharged Diesel engine consumption- 13.0 km/l on average
2021 Mercedes Benz GLE 3.0 L Turbocharged PHEV engine consumption- 76.2 km/l on average
2021 Mercedes Benz GLE Acceleration
2021 Mercedes Benz GLE 2.0 L Turbocharged Petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 7.1 secs
2021 Mercedes Benz GLE 3.0 L Turbocharged PHEV engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 5.8 secs
2021 Mercedes Benz GLE 3.0 L Turbocharged PHEV engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 6.3 secs
The 2021 Mercedes Benz GLE Fuel Tank Capacity: 85 liters
Ground Clearance: The 2021 Mercedes Benz GLE has a ground clearance of 8.0 inches
Service Intervals
Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.
Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires an Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.
Spare Parts and Availability
Service parts are readily available in major towns and are comparable in price to those of its competitors. On the other hand, body parts such as headlights can be expensive and sometimes hard to find.
Stability And Handling
The 2021 Mercedes Benz GLE is renowned for its stability and effortless handling. The driver has excellent visibility and command of the oncoming traffic. The steering wheel is not only power-assisted but also telescopic allowing the driver to be in full control of the vehicle. The suspension system absorbs road imperfections ensuring its occupants enjoy a serene ride. The GLE comes standard with a 4Matic all-wheel drive system that ensures power is evenly distributed to all the wheels for maximum traction thus it can tackle moderate off-road terrains.
The braking system is very robust and boasts a high stopping power ready to mitigate any kind of collision. Its weight distribution is evenly balanced enhancing its agility and maneuverability. However, due to its high ground clearance, it is advisable to slow down when approaching tight corners to avoid extreme body rolls. The engine works in tandem with the transmission system delivering a smooth start and decent acceleration.
Reliability
Mercedes Benz’s longevity in the automobile industry has largely contributed to its reputable history in manufacturing high-quality, durable, and reliable vehicles. The GLE is a beneficiary of such engineering prowess. The powertrains under the hood have been used by its predecessors hence it is anticipated not to experience any reliability issues. However, owing to the complex nature of its infotainment system, some users have experienced a bit of glitches. Refer to the Mercedes Benz GLE buyer’s guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge you to always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.
Resale Value: Good
Mercedes Benz GLE Competitors: BMW X5, Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne, Lexus RX, Volvo XC90, and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
What we like about the 2021 Mercedes Benz GLE
- Luxurious interior
- Powerful engines
- Comfortable ride
- Advanced safety features
- Stylish design
What we don’t
- Stiff ride on rough roads
- Exorbitant price tag
- Complex infotainment system
TO KICKSTART THE IMPORTATION PROCESS, CLICK HERE.
Conclusion
The 2021 Mercedes Benz GLE harmoniously blends luxury, comfort, and practicality. Elegance and sophistication are seamlessly showcased making it to be highly revered and among the most sought-after midsize SUVs. Driving the GLE gives you a prince/princess feel thanks to its continuous generational refinement. Even though its purchase price is exorbitant, it gives you value for money and besides that, it boasts a high resale value.
To import the 2021 Mercedes Benz GLE, send your request to EMAIL info@topcar.co.ke OR you can CONTACT +254 722 469 360
Get More With TopCar
If you have a question about this model or any other automotive questions, you can now get answers on our forum.
If you want to sell or trade-in you vehicle, you can list it for free via our seller portal.
If you wish to purchase this model local or abroad, you can do that via our marketplace.