2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Review

Today we’re looking at the all new Mercedes-Benz GLE350 SUV. It’s predecessor, M-class has been revitalized and redesigned as the GLE-Class. The GLE 350 upholds the Mercedes-Benz tradition of using only the highest quality materials like hand-polished wood and hand-stitched upholstery. You might not recognize the new front fascia, as it sports a new hood with power domes, sleeker front fenders, brawny bumpers, and a radiator grille with two lines accentuating the Mercedes-Benz star.

The diamond-shaped grille flows naturally from top to bottom of the front bumper for a sleek, uniform look. When you pop the hood of the GLE, you’ll find the tried and true 3.5L V6 engine that Mercedes-Benz uses in so many of its vehicles. This has been one of the most reliable and best-performing engines that Mercedes-Benz has ever produced, and it feels great when coupled with the 7-speed automatic transmission in the GLE.

All models come with Dynamic Select, which allows you to choose one of four or five transmission modes to change the characteristics of engine, transmission, and steering to deliver your desired driving style. If you want a dynamic ride, change to “Sport”. If you’re looking for a serene one, try “Comfort.” Slick weather? “Slippery” will improve handling to limit slipping or sliding, or you can create your own customized mode. Since this SUV can carry five passengers, the 11-way airbag system has everyone covered. Driver drowsiness can happen to anyone, but Attention Assist helps fight it by monitoring up to 70 parameters of driving behavior. If it detects a potential problem, the system can alert the driver.

With the ability to tow up to 7200 pounds, and a 60/40 split second-row seat that provides you with a vast 80 cubic feet of storage space, you’ll be able to effortlessly carry your gear for a long road trip or weekend adventure.

Inside the airy cabin is hand-finished wood and hand-fitted upholstery for the ultimate in elegance and comfort. The abundance of amenities includes a bigger 8-inch screen, and premium interior lighting that illuminates the center console, interior door handles, and footwells for peace of mind and passenger safety.

Of course, it’s wonderful for a vehicle to look great, but what does this vehicle feel like out on the road? Having driven the M-Class for a number of years, I can tell you that the GLE, in my opinion, was a big step up. It feels very capable on the road. It’s excellent at highway speeds. It’s a great handling car in the city, and it strikes a nice balance between sport ride and comfort ride. It’s great on virtually every road surface, and the ability to select the five different driving modes is a real bonus on this vehicle.

This stunning Sport Utility Vehicle has a bright future with its inventive modern design, cutting edge technology, and capable road handling. The GLE 350 fits right in with the hustle and bustle of Dallas/Fort Worth, and handles all kinds of road surfaces with a velvet touch. It’s classy, yet sporty style suits all occasions, whether it’s a formal evening at the Bass Hall or Winspear, or camping at Lake Texoma. It’s like the ideal outfit. It can be easily dressed up or dressed down. To learn more about the new GLE, view our Mercedes-Benz GLE inventory online, or stop by one of our showrooms which are located in Arlington, Grapevine, Fort Worth, and Dallas.