The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE continues to impress in the luxury midsize SUV segment with its blend of opulence, performance, and advanced technology. Renowned for its refined driving experience and premium features, the GLE offers a well-rounded package that caters to both performance enthusiasts and comfort-seekers. This year, Mercedes-Benz has refined the GLE to keep it competitive, adding new tech features and making subtle design tweaks while maintaining its reputation for luxury and performance.
The exterior of the 2023 GLE is characterized by its elegant and commanding presence. The SUV features a sleek, aerodynamic design highlighted by a prominent grille adorned with the iconic Mercedes-Benz emblem. The sculpted sides and streamlined profile give the GLE a modern, sporty look, while the LED headlights and taillights provide a sophisticated touch. The GLE’s design is both refined and athletic, reflecting its luxury status while emphasizing its performance capabilities. The overall stance of the vehicle conveys a sense of stability and strength, making it stand out in the competitive midsize SUV segment.
Under the hood, the 2023 GLE offers a range of powertrains to suit different driving preferences. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience. For those seeking more power, the GLE 450 4MATIC features a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with EQ Boost technology, generating 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This setup provides strong acceleration and an engaging drive, with a mild-hybrid system that adds an extra boost when needed. The high-performance GLE 63 S, meanwhile, boasts a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, delivering exhilarating performance and rapid acceleration. All engines come with all-wheel drive, ensuring excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Fuel economy for the 2023 GLE varies depending on the engine choice. The base 2.0-liter turbocharged engine achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, which is competitive for its class. The GLE 450 4MATIC, with its larger engine and mild-hybrid system, offers slightly lower fuel efficiency, with an estimated 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The high-performance GLE 63 S, with its powerful V8 engine, is less fuel-efficient, returning around 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. While the GLE’s fuel economy isn’t the best in its segment, the available performance and luxury features often justify the trade-off.
Safety is a strong focus for the 2023 GLE, which comes equipped with a comprehensive array of advanced driver-assistance features. Standard safety technologies include automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims add more advanced features like adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera system, and active lane change assist. The GLE consistently earns high safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, making it a reliable choice for families and safety-conscious drivers. Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to safety ensures that the GLE provides both peace of mind and cutting-edge technology.
Inside, the 2023 GLE offers a luxurious and spacious cabin designed with premium materials and advanced technology. The interior is well-appointed, with high-quality leather upholstery, wood or metal trim, and customizable ambient lighting. The GLE comfortably seats five passengers, with ample legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats. The optional third row increases seating capacity to seven, though it is best suited for occasional use or younger passengers. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring the latest MBUX software, provides a user-friendly interface with crisp graphics and responsive controls. Standard features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system, while higher trims offer additional amenities like a Burmester surround sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and heated and ventilated seats.
The 2023 GLE is available in several trims, each offering a different combination of features and performance. The base GLE 350 4MATIC starts around $61,000 and comes with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, a suite of luxury features, and the latest tech. The GLE 450 4MATIC, starting at approximately $74,000, adds the more powerful inline-six engine and additional performance features. The AMG GLE 63 S, with its high-performance V8 engine, starts at around $115,000 and includes a host of performance upgrades, sportier styling, and premium features. Various packages and options are available to further customize the GLE, including driver assistance packages, luxury upgrades, and performance enhancements.
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE continues to be a standout in the luxury midsize SUV segment, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology. Its elegant design, range of powerful engines, and well-appointed interior make it a compelling choice for those seeking both luxury and capability. While its fuel economy may not be class-leading, the GLE’s extensive safety features and premium amenities provide significant value. With a variety of trims and options to suit different preferences and budgets, the GLE remains a strong contender for buyers looking for a high-end, versatile SUV that delivers on multiple fronts.
