The 2016 Mercedes Suv, known as the GLE-Class, represents a significant model year for Mercedes-Benz as it marked the renaming from the previous M-Class. For those prioritizing safety in a luxury SUV, understanding the safety ratings of the 2016 GLE-Class is crucial. This article delves into the side impact safety evaluations, providing a clear picture of how this vehicle performs in critical safety tests.
The safety assessment discussed here applies to the 2016-2019 GLE-Class models. It’s important to note that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) ratings are based on tests conducted on a 2014 Mercedes-Benz ML 350 Bluetec. The M-Class was redesigned in 2012 and transitioned to the GLE-Class in 2016, meaning the structural and safety features relevant to side impact performance remained largely consistent during this period.
The IIHS side impact rating for this Mercedes SUV is derived from two tests performed by Mercedes-Benz. The first test involved a 2012 ML 550 V8, which included standard rear side torso airbags. The second test was conducted on a 2014 ML 350 Bluetec diesel V6 without the optional rear side torso airbags (these were standard in 2012-2013 models but became optional from 2014 onwards). Interestingly, the combined ratings for these tests indicate that the presence or absence of rear side torso airbags had minimal impact on rear occupant protection during side impact scenarios. Crucially, all occupants benefit from the standard side curtain airbags. This is attributed to the vehicle’s long wheelbase (115 inches), which means the impact point in a side collision is relatively far from the rear seating area.
The 2016 Mercedes SUV, inheriting the structural design tested in these M-Class models, achieved a “Good” overall rating in the side impact evaluation. This “Good” rating extends across all key evaluation criteria:
| Evaluation criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall evaluation | G |
| Structure and safety cage | G |
| Driver injury measures | |
| Head/neck | G |
| Torso | G |
| Pelvis/leg | G |
| Driver head protection | G |
| Rear passenger injury measures | |
| Head/neck | G |
| Torso | G |
| Pelvis/leg | G |
| Rear passenger head protection | G |
This table clearly demonstrates that the 2016 Mercedes GLE-Class provides robust protection in side impact crashes, earning the highest possible rating of “Good” in all categories for both driver and rear passenger safety. The structural integrity of the safety cage is also rated as “Good,” indicating a well-designed vehicle structure that effectively manages crash forces.
In conclusion, the 2016 Mercedes SUV, or GLE-Class, offers a high level of side impact safety. The “Good” rating across all aspects of the IIHS evaluation provides reassurance for those seeking a safe and luxurious SUV. This rating, based on rigorous testing and consistent performance across different model variations, underscores Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to occupant protection in their vehicles. For prospective buyers of a 2016 Mercedes SUV, these safety ratings are a significant factor to consider, highlighting the vehicle’s strong performance in side impact crash scenarios.
