The Mercedes-Benz GLE stands as a beacon of luxury, performance, and innovation in the midsize SUV segment, embodying the German automaker’s commitment to excellence. Launched as a successor to the M-Class, the GLE has evolved over the years into a sophisticated vehicle that blends cutting-edge technology with opulent comfort, making it a top choice for discerning buyers in metro cities and beyond. Introduced in its current generation in 2020 and refreshed in 2023, the GLE offers a compelling mix of powerful engine options, advanced safety features, and a plush interior that caters to both families and business professionals. With its commanding road presence, the GLE competes fiercely in the premium SUV market, taking on rivals like the BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Porsche Cayenne. This detailed exploration dives into the technical specifications, variants, pricing in metro cities, and an in-depth look at what makes the GLE a standout, alongside its close competitors.
The GLE’s appeal lies in its ability to cater to diverse needs—whether it’s navigating the bustling streets of Delhi, cruising the highways of Mumbai, or tackling the unpredictable roads of Bangalore. Its all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, luxurious cabin, and state-of-the-art infotainment make it a versatile companion. Available in multiple variants, including diesel and petrol options, the GLE ensures there’s a model for every preference, from the efficiency-focused GLE 300d to the performance-driven GLE 450d. Mercedes-Benz has positioned the GLE as a vehicle that doesn’t just meet expectations but exceeds them, offering a driving experience that’s as exhilarating as it is refined. Let’s delve into the specifics of this remarkable SUV, starting with its technical prowess.
Technical Specifications
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is engineered with precision, offering a range of powertrains that balance performance and efficiency. Below is a comprehensive table detailing the technical specifications of its key variants, sourced from reputable platforms like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, ensuring accuracy as of March 2025.
| Specification | GLE 300d 4MATIC AMG Line | GLE 450 4MATIC | GLE 450d 4MATIC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.0L Inline-4 Diesel | 3.0L Inline-6 Petrol (Mild Hybrid) | 3.0L Inline-6 Diesel |
| Displacement (cc) | 1993 | 2999 | 2989 |
| Max Power | 265.52 bhp @ 4200 rpm | 375 bhp @ 5500-6100 rpm | 362 bhp @ 4000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 550 Nm @ 1800-2200 rpm | 500 Nm @ 1600-4500 rpm | 750 Nm @ 1350-2800 rpm |
| Transmission | 9-Speed Automatic (9G-TRONIC) | 9-Speed Automatic (9G-TRONIC) | 9-Speed Automatic (9G-TRONIC) |
| Drivetrain | AWD (4MATIC) | AWD (4MATIC) | AWD (4MATIC) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Petrol + Electric (Mild Hybrid) | Diesel |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 16 kmpl | 8.6 kmpl | 8.6 kmpl |
| Top Speed (kmph) | 230 | 250 | 250 |
| 0-100 kmph (seconds) | 6.9 | 5.6 | 5.7 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (L) | 85 | 85 | 85 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Length (mm) | 4926 | 4926 | 4926 |
| Width (mm) | 2157 | 2157 | 2157 |
| Height (mm) | 1797 | 1797 | 1797 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2995 | 2995 | 2995 |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 215 | 215 | 215 |
| Kerb Weight (kg) | ~2250 | ~2300 | ~2350 |
| Suspension (Front) | AIRMATIC Air Suspension | AIRMATIC Air Suspension | AIRMATIC Air Suspension |
| Suspension (Rear) | AIRMATIC Air Suspension | AIRMATIC Air Suspension | AIRMATIC Air Suspension |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Ventilated Discs | Ventilated Discs | Ventilated Discs |
| Tyre Size | 275/50 R20 | 275/50 R20 | 275/50 R20 |
| Emission Norm Compliance | BS VI 2.0 | BS VI 2.0 | BS VI 2.0 |
Note: Mileage figures are ARAI-certified; real-world mileage may vary (e.g., CarWale tests report 7.11 kmpl city and 11.17 kmpl highway for GLE 450). Specifications are subject to updates by Mercedes-Benz India.
Variants
The GLE lineup in India is tailored to offer a blend of efficiency, luxury, and performance. Below is a table summarizing the available variants as of March 2025, based on data from CarDekho and CarWale.
| Variant | Engine | Powertrain | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| GLE 300d 4MATIC AMG Line | 2.0L Diesel | AWD, 9-Speed Auto | AMG styling, 9 airbags, MBUX infotainment, 4-zone AC |
| GLE 450 4MATIC | 3.0L Petrol (Mild Hybrid) | AWD, 9-Speed Auto | Mild-hybrid tech, panoramic sunroof, Burmester audio |
| GLE 450d 4MATIC | 3.0L Diesel | AWD, 9-Speed Auto | High torque, adaptive cruise, premium leather seats |
Each variant comes with the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system as standard, ensuring superior traction and stability across diverse terrains. The GLE 300d AMG Line replaces the earlier standard 300d, adding sporty aesthetics, while the GLE 450 introduces mild-hybrid technology for enhanced efficiency and power. The GLE 450d stands out with its robust diesel engine, delivering exceptional torque for those seeking commanding performance.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Mercedes-Benz GLE varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and taxes. Below is a table of approximate on-road prices (ex-showroom + RTO + insurance) as of March 2025, compiled from CarWale and CarDekho.
| City | GLE 300d 4MATIC AMG Line | GLE 450 4MATIC | GLE 450d 4MATIC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹1.16 Crore | ₹1.27 Crore | ₹1.36 Crore |
| Mumbai | ₹1.20 Crore | ₹1.33 Crore | ₹1.41 Crore |
| Bangalore | ₹1.22 Crore | ₹1.38 Crore | ₹1.44 Crore |
| Chennai | ₹1.19 Crore | ₹1.31 Crore | ₹1.40 Crore |
| Kolkata | ₹1.18 Crore | ₹1.30 Crore | ₹1.39 Crore |
Note: Prices are indicative and include ex-showroom costs (₹99 Lakh – ₹1.17 Crore), RTO, insurance, and additional charges like TCS and FASTag. Exact figures may vary based on dealership offers and optional packages.
About the Mercedes-Benz GLE
Design and Exterior
The Mercedes-Benz GLE exudes a bold and muscular presence, characterized by its sleek lines, prominent grille, and LED Multibeam headlamps that not only enhance visibility but also add a futuristic touch. Measuring 4926 mm in length, the GLE’s long wheelbase (2995 mm) ensures ample interior space while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency with a drag coefficient of 0.29—among the best in its class. The refreshed 2023 update introduced subtle yet impactful changes, including a revised front bumper, larger headlamps, and AMG-inspired styling on the 300d variant. The Selenite Grey Metallic and Obsidian Black Metallic color options are particularly popular in metro cities, enhancing its premium appeal. The 20-inch alloy wheels, paired with flared wheel arches, give the GLE a stance that’s both imposing and elegant, making it a head-turner on urban streets and highways alike.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the GLE, and you’re greeted by a cabin that epitomizes luxury. The dual 12.3-inch MBUX displays—one for instrumentation and one for infotainment—create a seamless digital cockpit that’s both intuitive and visually stunning. Premium materials like Nappa leather upholstery, open-pore wood trim, and ambient lighting with 64 color options elevate the experience. The front seats are electrically adjustable with memory functions, while the rear seats offer generous legroom (increased by 69 mm over the previous generation) and headroom, thanks to the long-wheelbase design. The GLE 450d even features power-adjustable second-row seats, a rarity in this segment.
Comfort is further enhanced by the 4-zone climate control, ensuring every occupant enjoys personalized temperature settings. The 590-watt, 13-speaker Burmester sound system delivers an immersive audio experience, perfect for long drives or city commutes. However, the air suspension, while excellent for highway stability, can feel slightly stiff over pothole-ridden urban roads, as noted in CarWale reviews. Cargo space is substantial, with 630 liters expandable to over 2000 liters with the rear seats folded, making the GLE a practical choice for families and adventure enthusiasts.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The GLE’s performance is where it truly shines, offering a trio of powertrains tailored to different driving preferences. The GLE 300d, with its 2.0L diesel engine, delivers 265 bhp and 550 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0-100 kmph in 6.9 seconds—impressive for an entry-level variant. It’s ideal for those prioritizing fuel efficiency (16 kmpl ARAI) without sacrificing power. The GLE 450, equipped with a 3.0L petrol mild-hybrid engine, ups the ante with 375 bhp and a 0-100 kmph time of 5.6 seconds (CarWale recorded 5.84 seconds), aided by a 48V system that boosts efficiency and smoothness. Its real-world mileage of 7.11 kmpl in the city and 11.17 kmpl on highways, combined with an 85-liter fuel tank, offers a range of around 700 km.
For those craving maximum grunt, the GLE 450d churns out 362 bhp and a colossal 750 Nm of torque, hitting 100 kmph in 5.7 seconds. Its diesel powertrain ensures effortless overtaking and a commanding presence on the road. All variants feature the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission, which shifts seamlessly, enhancing both performance and refinement. The 4MATIC AWD system provides excellent grip, while the optional AIRMATIC air suspension (standard on higher trims) adapts to road conditions, offering modes like Eco and Off-Road—though it lacks a dedicated Sport mode, a curious omission for a luxury SUV.
On the highway, the GLE excels with phenomenal stability at triple-digit speeds, and the stiffer suspension minimizes body roll around corners. In city confines, the quick and smooth steering makes maneuvering this 2.5-tonne behemoth surprisingly easy. While off-road capabilities are robust—thanks to 215 mm ground clearance and adjustable suspension—most owners in metro cities are unlikely to test its full potential.
Technology and Features
The GLE is a tech powerhouse, with the MBUX infotainment system at its core. Voice-activated controls (“Hey Mercedes”), wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a heads-up display ensure connectivity and convenience. Safety is paramount, with up to 9 airbags, ABS with EBD, active brake assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. The GLE 450d adds advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, making it a semi-autonomous driving companion. The fingerprint reader, introduced in 2025 models, enhances security, while the panoramic sunroof adds an airy feel to the cabin.
Close Competitors
The GLE operates in a fiercely competitive segment, where it faces off against some of the best luxury SUVs. Here’s how it stacks up against its closest rivals:
BMW X5
The BMW X5 is a direct competitor, priced between ₹99 Lakh and ₹1.11 Crore (ex-showroom). It offers a sportier driving experience with a 3.0L petrol (375 bhp) or diesel (282 bhp) engine, both paired with an 8-speed automatic. The X5’s interior is equally luxurious, with a 14.9-inch curved display and a focus on driver engagement. However, its ride quality is firmer, and it lacks the GLE’s mild-hybrid option in base trims. The X5 edges out in agility, but the GLE counters with superior rear-seat comfort and a more refined cabin.
Audi Q7
Priced from ₹88.66 Lakh to ₹97.84 Lakh (ex-showroom), the Audi Q7 is a value-driven alternative. Its 3.0L V6 petrol (335 bhp, 500 Nm) and quattro AWD system deliver strong performance, with a 0-100 kmph time of 5.9 seconds. The Q7’s minimalist interior, featuring a dual-touchscreen setup, appeals to tech-savvy buyers, and its third-row seating (standard) gives it an edge for larger families. However, the GLE surpasses it in engine variety, torque (especially in the 450d), and overall opulence.
Porsche Cayenne
The Porsche Cayenne, starting at ₹1.36 Crore (ex-showroom), targets performance enthusiasts. Its base 3.0L V6 petrol (348 bhp) hits 100 kmph in 6.0 seconds, while higher trims like the Turbo GT (650 bhp) obliterate the GLE’s acceleration. The Cayenne’s handling is unmatched, thanks to Porsche’s chassis tuning, but its interior, while premium, doesn’t match the GLE’s plushness. Priced higher, it appeals to those prioritizing sportiness over the GLE’s balanced luxury.
Land Rover Range Rover Velar
The Range Rover Velar (₹87.90 Lakh ex-showroom) offers a sleek design and a 2.0L petrol (247 bhp) or diesel (201 bhp) engine. Its off-road pedigree is strong, but on-road refinement lags behind the GLE. The Velar’s minimalist cabin and Pivi Pro infotainment are impressive, yet it lacks the GLE’s powertrain diversity and rear-seat space. It’s a stylish, affordable option but doesn’t compete with the GLE’s all-around prowess.
Why Choose the GLE?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE distinguishes itself with its versatility. It’s a luxury SUV that doesn’t compromise—whether it’s the efficiency of the 300d, the hybrid innovation of the 450, or the sheer power of the 450d. In metro cities like Delhi and Mumbai, where status and comfort are paramount, the GLE’s commanding presence and plush interior make it a favorite among CEOs, celebrities, and families. Its real-world range of 700 km (GLE 450) is a boon for intercity travel, while the advanced safety suite ensures peace of mind in chaotic urban traffic.
Critics might point to its fuel economy (8-16 kmpl) as a drawback, especially compared to hybrids like the Cayenne E-Hybrid, but the GLE counters with a larger fuel tank and robust performance that justifies the trade-off. The absence of a third-row option (unlike the Q7) may deter some, but the GLE’s focus on five-seat luxury ensures unrivaled comfort for occupants. Maintenance costs, typical of a luxury German marque, are high, yet the GLE’s build quality and reliability mitigate long-term concerns.
Final Thoughts!
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is more than just an SUV—it’s a statement of luxury, technology, and performance. From its meticulously crafted interior to its potent engine lineup, it caters to those who demand the best. Priced between ₹1.16 Crore and ₹1.44 Crore (on-road) in metro cities, it’s a premium investment that delivers on every front. Against competitors like the BMW X5, Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne, and Range Rover Velar, the GLE holds its own with a unique blend of refinement and versatility. Whether you’re navigating Bangalore’s tech corridors or Mumbai’s coastal highways, the GLE promises a driving experience that’s as rewarding as it is prestigious—a true embodiment of Mercedes-Benz’s legacy in the luxury SUV realm.
