The 2018 Mercedes Gle 350 stands as a compelling option in the luxury SUV market, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced features. This article delves into the details of the GLE 350, exploring its engine specifications, interior amenities, technology packages, and comparing it to other models in the GLE class. For those seeking a sophisticated and capable SUV, understanding the nuances of the 2018 Mercedes GLE 350 is essential.
Engine and Performance of the 2018 GLE 350
Under the hood of the 2018 Mercedes GLE 350 lies a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine. This powerplant delivers 302 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for daily driving and confident highway cruising. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting seven-speed automatic transmission, ensuring a refined driving experience. Standard configuration for the GLE 350 is rear-wheel drive, while Mercedes-Benz’s renowned all-wheel-drive system, 4Matic, is available as an option for enhanced traction and control in various weather conditions.
Standard Features and Interior Comfort
The 2018 GLE 350 is generously equipped with standard features, reflecting its luxury positioning. On the exterior, you’ll find stylish 19-inch alloy wheels, automatic wipers for convenience in inclement weather, a sunroof to brighten the cabin, power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors for added practicality, and a power liftgate for easy access to the cargo area.
Stepping inside the GLE 350 reveals a well-appointed cabin designed for comfort and convenience. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized temperature settings for driver and passenger, while a power-adjustable steering wheel adds to driver personalization. Heated front seats provide warmth in colder climates, and the 10-way power driver seat, complete with four-way power lumbar adjustment and memory functions, ensures optimal driving posture. Simulated leather upholstery provides a premium feel, and Mercedes’ COMAND electronics interface, featuring an 8-inch display, integrates vehicle controls and entertainment. An eight-speaker audio system with a CD player and two USB ports provides standard audio entertainment. Standard advanced safety features include a rearview camera to aid in parking and maneuvering, a forward collision warning system to enhance safety, and Mercedes’ Mbrace telematics system for connectivity and emergency services.
Optional Packages: Enhancing the 2018 GLE 350
For buyers looking to further enhance their 2018 GLE 350, Mercedes-Benz offers a range of optional packages. The Premium 1 package is a popular choice, adding a wealth of desirable features. This package includes keyless ignition and entry for seamless vehicle access, a navigation system to guide your journeys, a touchpad controller for the central display for intuitive operation, satellite radio for expanded audio entertainment, and smartphone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Audio quality is significantly upgraded with a 14-speaker premium Harman Kardon sound system. Practical additions include a 115-volt household-style power outlet for powering devices, and enhanced safety features such as a blind-spot monitoring system and a lane departure warning system.
The Premium 2 package builds upon Premium 1 with further luxury and technology enhancements. Adaptive LED headlights improve nighttime visibility, automatic high-beam control optimizes headlight usage, and heated and cooled front cupholders add a touch of premium convenience. Interior ambient lighting sets a sophisticated mood, illuminated doorsills add a stylish touch, rear-window sunshades provide passenger comfort, and a fold-down pass-through behind the rear-center armrest increases cargo versatility (note: not available on the GLE 550e).
For the ultimate in driver assistance technology, the Premium 3 package is available. This package includes a 360-degree parking camera for comprehensive visibility, adaptive cruise control for relaxed highway driving, an automated steering system to assist with lane keeping, a collision avoidance system for enhanced safety, lane departure intervention to prevent unintentional lane drifts, and an automated parking system to simplify parking maneuvers.
Exploring Other 2018 GLE Models
The 2018 GLE lineup extends beyond the GLE 350, offering a variety of powertrains and performance levels. The GLE 550e is a plug-in hybrid model, combining a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 and an electric motor to produce a combined 436 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The GLE 550e also includes leather upholstery and the contents of the Premium 1 package as standard.
For performance enthusiasts, the AMG GLE 43 offers a significant step up in driving dynamics. It features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 producing 385 hp and 384 lb-ft, a nine-speed automatic transmission, 20-inch wheels, an AMG-tuned adaptive air suspension, a sport exhaust, and distinctive AMG styling cues. Interior enhancements include a flat-bottom steering wheel and simulated leather upholstery, along with the features of the Premium 1 package.
The AMG GLE 63 takes performance to an even higher level with a potent turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 engine generating 550 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Upgraded brakes, summer performance tires, active stabilizer bars, and front and rear parking sensors are added for enhanced handling and control. The interior is further upgraded with a sport steering wheel, a 10-way power passenger seat, ventilated front seats, upgraded leather upholstery, a faux-suede headliner, and the contents of the Premium 2 package.
At the top of the range is the AMG GLE 63 S, featuring a tuned version of the turbo V8 producing a remarkable 577 hp and 561 lb-ft of torque. Larger 21-inch wheels, a carbon-fiber engine cover, and faux suede steering-wheel inserts further differentiate this high-performance model.
Standalone Options for Personalization
Beyond packages, the 2018 Mercedes GLE 350 offers a range of standalone options to personalize your vehicle. These include a panoramic sunroof for an expansive view, a trailer hitch for towing capability, tri-zone climate control for enhanced rear passenger comfort, multicontour front seats with massage for ultimate driver and passenger relaxation, ventilated front seats for cooling comfort, heated rear seats for rear passenger warmth, a heated steering wheel for cold weather comfort, a rear-seat entertainment system to keep rear passengers engaged, and upgraded audio systems including a 14-speaker Harman Kardon or a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system for audiophiles.
Conclusion: The 2018 Mercedes GLE 350 – A Refined Luxury SUV
The 2018 Mercedes GLE 350 delivers a compelling luxury SUV experience. Its potent V6 engine, combined with a comfortable and feature-rich interior, makes it a strong contender in its class. Whether you prioritize standard luxury, enhanced technology packages, or standalone options for personalization, the GLE 350 offers a versatile platform. And for those seeking even greater performance, the AMG GLE models provide exhilarating power and dynamics. Exploring the 2018 Mercedes GLE class reveals a range of options to suit diverse needs and preferences in the luxury SUV segment.
