The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 stands as a testament to luxury and versatility in the SUV market. This model year brought a compelling blend of comfort, technology, and performance to drivers seeking a premium driving experience. As a cornerstone of the GLE lineup, the 350 variant offered a well-rounded package that catered to a broad spectrum of needs and preferences. Let’s delve into the details of what makes the 2017 Mercedes Gle 350 a noteworthy choice, especially for those considering a pre-owned luxury SUV.
The exterior of the 2017 GLE 350 immediately signals its premium nature. Standard features are thoughtfully appointed, starting with 19-inch alloy wheels that provide a confident stance and smooth ride. LED daytime running lights and taillights not only enhance visibility but also contribute to the vehicle’s modern aesthetic. Practicality is addressed with standard front and rear foglights for enhanced visibility in adverse weather, and automatic wipers that respond seamlessly to changing conditions. The inclusion of a sunroof brings an open and airy feel to the cabin, while a roof rack adds versatility for cargo management. Rear passengers will appreciate the privacy glass, and power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors add convenience and safety. Access to the cargo area is simplified with a power liftgate, a standard feature across the GLE lineup.
Alt: Side view of a silver 2017 Mercedes GLE 350 showcasing its 19-inch alloy wheels and roof rack.
Stepping inside the 2017 GLE 350 reveals a cabin designed for comfort and sophistication. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized comfort for both driver and front passenger. Wood trim accents lend a touch of classic elegance, while the power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and heated and power front seats with driver memory functions allow for optimal driving position and comfort. The seats are upholstered in durable and premium MB-Tex premium vinyl, offering a luxurious feel that is also easy to maintain. LED accent lighting subtly enhances the interior ambiance.
At the heart of the GLE 350’s technology suite is Mercedes’ COMAND electronics interface, centered around an 8-inch display. This system manages navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. A backup camera is standard, greatly aiding in parking and maneuvering. Connectivity is well-covered with a 4G LTE data connection, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and an eight-speaker audio system complete with HD radio, a CD player, and a USB port. These features ensure that both driver and passengers remain connected and entertained on the go.
Safety is paramount in the 2017 Mercedes GLE 350, and it comes equipped with a comprehensive list of standard safety features. (Please refer to the official Mercedes-Benz safety documentation for a detailed list).
For those seeking even more features, Mercedes-Benz offered a range of optional packages for the 2017 GLE 350. The Premium 1 package is a popular choice, adding features like keyless ignition and entry for added convenience. Navigation becomes integrated with a dedicated navigation system, while satellite radio, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration expand entertainment and connectivity options. Audiophiles will appreciate the upgrade to a 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. Practicality is further enhanced with a rear 115-volt, household-style power outlet. Crucially, this package also adds important driver-assistance features such as a blind-spot monitoring system and a lane departure warning system, enhancing safety on the road.
Alt: Interior view of a 2017 Mercedes GLE 350 showcasing the dashboard, COMAND system screen, and wood trim.
Moving up, the Premium 2 package builds upon Premium 1 by including adaptive LED headlights and automatic high-beam headlights for superior nighttime visibility. Heated and cooled cupholders add a touch of luxury and convenience, and rear sunshades enhance passenger comfort in sunny conditions. The Premium 3 package further elevates the driver-assistance technology with adaptive cruise control, a collision avoidance system, a further enhanced lane departure warning system, and an automated parking system, making driving and parking in urban environments significantly easier and safer.
For those desiring a sportier aesthetic, the Exterior Sport package offered 20-inch wheels and an AMG body kit, giving the GLE 350 a more aggressive and dynamic look. The Night package combines the contents of the Exterior Sport package with gloss-black exterior trim pieces and wheels for a distinctive and stealthy appearance. For interior personalization, leather upholstery was available as an optional upgrade to the standard MB-Tex.
While the GLE 350 is well-equipped, the 2017 GLE Class also offered other models with varying features and performance levels. The GLE 400 included features from the Premium 1 and Exterior Sport packages as standard, along with a more powerful turbocharged engine, multicolor ambient interior lighting, and leather upholstery. Notably, an Off-Road package was exclusively available for the GLE 400, adding features like low-range gearing, a unique Dynamic Select calibration, and a front underbody skid plate for enhanced off-road capability. The GLE 550e plug-in hybrid offered a blend of efficiency and performance with its hybrid powertrain and included Premium 1 features along with leather upholstery and unique interior trim.
For performance enthusiasts, the AMG models took the GLE Class to another level. Replacing the GLE 400 in the performance hierarchy, the AMG GLE 43 featured a more potent engine, AMG-exclusive 20-inch wheels, an AMG-tuned adaptive air suspension, a sport exhaust, unique exterior styling, a flat-bottom steering wheel, aluminum shift paddles and pedals, simulated leather upholstery, and the contents of the Premium 1 package. The Parking Assist package, optional across the range, added a 360-degree camera system and the aforementioned automated parking system.
The AMG GLE 63 took performance even further, including the GLE 43’s features plus the Premium 2 and Parking Assist packages, a turbocharged V8 engine, larger brakes, active stabilizer bars, front and rear parking sensors, special leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated seats. At the top of the range, the AMG GLE 63 S increased the horsepower of the turbocharged V8 and added 21-inch wheels, a carbon-fiber engine cover, a sport steering wheel, suede headliner, and unique upholstery.
Standalone options for the 2017 GLE 350 and other models included a panoramic sunroof, a 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, a rear-seat entertainment system, and upgraded audio systems including a 13-speaker Harman Kardon or a top-tier 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system.
Under the hood, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offered four distinct powertrain options. All-wheel drive (4Matic) is standard on most models, but for the GLE 350, it is an available option replacing the standard rear-wheel drive. All engines feature fuel-saving automatic engine stop-start technology.
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 by the EPA at 20 mpg combined (18 city/23 highway) for rear-wheel drive and 19 mpg combined (18 city/22 highway) with all-wheel drive. Independent testing has shown the GLE 350 4Matic achieving a 0-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds, competitive for its class.
For increased power, the GLE 400 features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 delivering 329 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission. EPA fuel economy is estimated at 20 mpg combined (18 city/23 highway). An optional low-range transfer case and locking center differential were available for enhanced off-road capability in this model.
The GLE 550e plug-in hybrid combines a 114-hp electric motor with the turbo 3.0-liter V6 and a seven-speed automatic-based transmission, resulting in a total output of 436 hp and 479 lb-ft. The claimed 0-60 mph time is an impressive 5.3 seconds. EPA fuel economy for the hybrid is estimated at 43 mpg equivalent when utilizing a full battery charge and 21 mpg in standard hybrid operation. The electric-only driving range is approximately 18 miles.
The AMG GLE models represent a significant jump in performance. The AMG GLE 63 is equipped with a turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 producing 550 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. The AMG GLE 63 S version of the same engine boosts output to 577 hp and 561 lb-ft. Both AMG models utilize a specially tuned seven-speed automatic transmission and achieve an EPA-rated fuel economy of 15 mpg combined (13 city/17 highway). Mercedes-Benz states the AMG GLE 63 accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds, and the GLE 63 S accomplishes this in just 4.2 seconds.
In terms of towing capability, the 2017 Mercedes GLE 350 with rear-wheel drive can tow up to 6,600 pounds. The GLE 350 4Matic and all other GLE models increase this capacity to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped, making it a capable choice for those needing to haul trailers or other recreational equipment.
In conclusion, the 2017 Mercedes GLE 350 offers a compelling entry point into the Mercedes-Benz luxury SUV lineup. With a generous array of standard features, a comfortable and well-appointed interior, and a capable V6 engine, the GLE 350 provides a balanced and refined driving experience. Its available optional packages and the wider GLE Class model range allow buyers to tailor their vehicle to specific needs and preferences, making the 2017 Mercedes GLE Class, and particularly the GLE 350, a strong contender in the luxury SUV market.
