The 2017 Mercedes-benz Gle stands as a testament to luxury and versatility in the SUV market. For those in the automotive repair field or prospective owners, understanding the intricacies of this vehicle is paramount. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE, detailing its various trims, features, performance metrics, and available options, designed to be more informative and SEO-optimized for an English-speaking audience than the original specification sheet.
Exploring the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE Trim Levels
The 2017 GLE lineup offers a diverse range of models, each catering to different preferences and performance needs. From the well-equipped GLE 350 to the high-performance AMG variants, there’s a GLE for every discerning driver.
GLE 350: Standard Luxury and Features
The base model, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350, sets a high standard for luxury SUVs. It comes standard with 19-inch alloy wheels and distinctive LED lighting, including daytime running lights and taillights. Functionality is enhanced with front and rear foglights, automatic wipers, a sunroof, and a practical roof rack. Rear privacy glass and power-folding, auto-dimming mirrors add to both convenience and style. The power liftgate is a standard feature, emphasizing ease of use.
Inside the GLE 350, dual-zone automatic climate control ensures passenger comfort, while wood trim and LED accent lighting create a refined ambiance. The power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, heated and power front seats, and driver memory functions prioritize driver comfort. MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery offers a durable and luxurious feel. Mercedes’ COMAND electronics interface, featuring an 8-inch display and a backup camera, integrates technology seamlessly. Connectivity is robust with a 4G LTE data connection, Bluetooth phone and audio, and an eight-speaker audio system with HD radio, a CD player, and a USB port. Comprehensive safety features are also standard, ensuring peace of mind.
GLE 400: Enhanced Performance and Features
Stepping up to the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 brings enhanced performance and additional features. It incorporates elements from the optional Premium 1 and Exterior Sport packages, building upon the GLE 350’s foundation. The GLE 400 distinguishes itself with a more powerful turbocharged engine and adds multicolor ambient interior lighting and luxurious leather upholstery as standard. For those seeking off-road capability, an optional Off-Road package is exclusively available for this model, including low-range gearing, a unique Dynamic Select calibration, and a front underbody skid plate.
GLE 550e: Plug-in Hybrid Efficiency
For environmentally conscious buyers seeking efficiency without compromising luxury, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE 550e plug-in hybrid is an excellent choice. It includes all the features from the Premium 1 package and further enhances the interior with leather upholstery and unique cabin treatments. The plug-in hybrid powertrain offers impressive fuel economy and the ability to drive on electric power alone for shorter distances.
AMG GLE 43: Sporty Performance
Replacing the GLE 400 in the performance lineup, the AMG GLE 43 is designed for driving enthusiasts. This model boasts a more powerful engine and AMG-exclusive 20-inch wheels. Performance is further enhanced by an AMG-tuned adaptive air suspension and a sport exhaust system. Exterior styling upgrades and a flat-bottom steering wheel with aluminum shift paddles and pedals contribute to its sporty character. Simulated leather upholstery and the contents of the Premium 1 package complete the AMG GLE 43’s impressive specifications.
AMG GLE 63 & 63 S: Ultimate Power and Luxury
At the pinnacle of the GLE range are the AMG GLE 63 and AMG GLE 63 S models. The AMG GLE 63 includes features from the GLE 43, plus the Premium 2 and Parking Assist packages. It is powered by a turbocharged V8 engine and features larger brakes and active stabilizer bars for superior handling. Front and rear parking sensors, special leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated seats further enhance its luxury and functionality. The range-topping AMG GLE 63 S pushes performance even further with an increased horsepower turbocharged V8, 21-inch wheels, a carbon-fiber engine cover, a sport steering wheel, a suede headliner, and unique upholstery, representing the ultimate expression of power and luxury in the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE lineup.
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Engine Options and Performance
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE offers a variety of powertrains to suit different driving needs and preferences. All models, except the GLE 350, come standard with all-wheel drive (4Matic), which is an available option for the GLE 350, replacing the standard rear-wheel drive. Fuel-saving automatic engine stop-start technology is standard across the engine range.
The GLE 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 20 mpg combined (18 city/23 highway) for the rear-wheel-drive version and 19 mpg combined (18 city/22 highway) for the all-wheel-drive model. Performance tests show the GLE 350 4Matic accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds.
The GLE 400 features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that delivers 329 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg combined (18 city/23 highway).
The GLE 550e plug-in hybrid combines a 114-hp electric motor with the turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine and a seven-speed automatic-based transmission, resulting in a total output of 436 hp and 479 lb-ft. It’s claimed to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds and offers an EPA fuel economy rating of 43 mpg equivalent when fully charged and 21 mpg in hybrid mode, with an electric-only range of approximately 18 miles.
The AMG GLE 63 models are equipped with a turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 engine. The standard AMG GLE 63 produces 550 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG GLE 63 S version boosts output to 577 hp and 561 lb-ft. Both use a specially tuned seven-speed automatic transmission and achieve an EPA-rated fuel economy of 15 mpg combined (13 city/17 highway). The AMG GLE 63 accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds, and the GLE 63 S in 4.2 seconds.
Towing capacity ranges up to 6,600 pounds for the rear-wheel-drive GLE 350 and 7,200 pounds for the GLE 350 4Matic and all other models when properly equipped.
Customizing Your 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Options and Packages
Beyond the standard features of each trim, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE offers numerous optional packages and standalone features to further personalize and enhance the vehicle. The Premium 1 package, available on lower trims, includes keyless ignition and entry, navigation, satellite radio, smartphone integration, a Harman Kardon premium audio system, a rear power outlet, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. The Premium 2 package adds adaptive LED headlights, automatic high beams, heated and cooled cupholders, and rear sunshades to the Premium 1 features. The Premium 3 package further includes adaptive cruise control, collision avoidance, lane departure warning, and automated parking.
The Exterior Sport package includes 20-inch wheels and an AMG body kit, while the Night package adds gloss-black exterior trim and wheels to the Sport package contents. Leather upholstery is optional for the GLE 350. The Parking Assist package, available across trims, includes a 360-degree camera system and automated parking.
Standalone options include a panoramic sunroof, trailer hitch, adaptive air and off-road suspensions, tri-zone climate control, multi-contour front seats with massage, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, rear-seat entertainment, and upgraded Harman Kardon or Bang & Olufsen premium audio systems.
Conclusion
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE is a compelling luxury SUV that offers a wide range of features, performance options, and customization possibilities. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, sporty driving dynamics, or ultimate luxury, the GLE lineup has a model to meet your needs. For automotive professionals and consumers alike, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE remains a benchmark in its class, offering a blend of sophistication, performance, and advanced technology.
