The Mercedes Gle 2017 marked a significant year for the luxury SUV, continuing the legacy that began with the M-Class in 1998. This third-generation model offered a range of options to suit different needs and preferences, from the efficient GLE350 to the high-performance AMG GLE63 S. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the 2017 Mercedes GLE lineup, covering models, pricing, key features, and specifications.
2017 Mercedes GLE Models and MSRP
The 2017 model year presented a diverse selection of Mercedes GLE models, each catering to a specific segment of the luxury SUV market. Below is a breakdown of the available models and their Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP), excluding the $925 destination and delivery charge:
- GLE350: $52,000
- GLE350 4MATIC: $54,500
- GLE400 4MATIC: $65,650
- GLE550e 4MATIC (Plug-In Hybrid): $66,300
- Mercedes-AMG GLE43: $67,150
- Mercedes-AMG GLE63: $101,690
- Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S: $108,840
This range ensured that buyers could find a 2017 Mercedes GLE that aligned with their budget and performance expectations, whether prioritizing fuel efficiency with the GLE550e or seeking exhilarating power with the AMG models.
Key Updates for the 2017 GLE Model Year
The 2017 Mercedes GLE introduced several updates and enhancements to keep it competitive in the luxury SUV segment. These changes included:
- New Paint Options: Selenite Gray and Brilliant Blue were added to the exterior color palette, offering fresh aesthetic choices.
- Standard Rearview Camera: A rearview camera became a standard feature across all models, enhancing safety and convenience during parking and maneuvering.
- 4G LTE WiFi Hotspot: The integration of 4G LTE WiFi provided in-car internet connectivity, catering to the increasing demand for connected car features.
These updates, while not a complete redesign, demonstrated Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to continuous improvement and incorporating modern technology into the GLE.
Standard Feature Highlights Across the 2017 GLE Range
Even at the base GLE350 level, the 2017 Mercedes GLE was well-equipped with a host of standard features focused on comfort, safety, and convenience. Notable standard features included:
- Heated front seats for enhanced comfort in colder climates.
- KEYLESS-START for effortless engine ignition.
- Remote start functionality for pre-conditioning the vehicle’s interior.
- Active Brake Assist, a safety system designed to mitigate or prevent frontal collisions.
- Auto-dimming rearview and driver-side mirrors to reduce glare.
- 5 years of mbrace® services, offering connectivity and vehicle assistance features.
- PRE-SAFE®, Mercedes-Benz’s proactive occupant protection system.
- Crosswind Assist to enhance stability in strong crosswinds.
- Parking Pilot for semi-automated parking assistance.
Moving up the model range, the GLE400 4MATIC and GLE550e 4MATIC added even more standard equipment, building upon the already generous feature set of the base GLE350.
Specific Model Highlights: GLE400 4MATIC and GLE550e 4MATIC
The GLE400 4MATIC and GLE550e 4MATIC models, positioned above the GLE350, included all the standard features mentioned previously, plus additional premium enhancements:
- COMAND® Navigation with an 8-inch Color Display for advanced infotainment and navigation.
- Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto integration for seamless smartphone connectivity.
- Harman/kardon LOGIC7® sound system for a high-fidelity audio experience.
- Lane Tracking Package, incorporating Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist for enhanced driver awareness and safety.
These additions elevated the driving experience, providing more advanced technology and luxury features as standard.
AMG Performance Models: GLE43, GLE63, and GLE63 S
For those seeking high-performance SUVs, the 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLE lineup offered thrilling options:
- Mercedes-AMG GLE43: Powered by an AMG-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo engine and featuring AMG Performance 4MATIC, AMG Sport Suspension based on AIRMATIC, and AMG-enhanced 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission.
- Mercedes-AMG GLE63 & AMG GLE63 S: Boasting a handcrafted AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo engine, AMG SPEEDSHIFT® PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission, Parking Pilot, Parking Package, and Surround View System. The GLE63 S offered an even higher level of performance.
The AMG models prioritized performance and driving dynamics, delivering exhilarating power and handling characteristics synonymous with the AMG brand.
Optional Features and Packages
Beyond the standard features, the 2017 Mercedes GLE offered a wide array of optional features and packages to personalize the vehicle. Notable options included:
- Plug-In Hybrid technology (GLE550e 4MATIC).
- Parking Pilot and AIRMATIC® Package for enhanced convenience and ride comfort.
- Premium Packages (1, 2, and 3) bundling popular options like harman/kardon LOGIC7® sound system, COMAND® Navigation, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio, Lane Tracking Package, KEYLESS-GO®, Apple CarPlay®, and advanced driver assistance systems.
- Driver Assistance Package (within Premium 3 Package) including Distance Pilot DISTRONIC® and Steering Pilot, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, PRE-SAFE® PLUS, and more.
These optional features allowed buyers to tailor their 2017 Mercedes GLE to their specific preferences and needs, further enhancing the luxury and technology offered.
2017 Mercedes GLE: At a Glance Specifications
To provide a quick comparison, here’s a table summarizing key specifications for several 2017 Mercedes GLE models:
| GLE350 / GLE350 4MATIC | GLE400 4M | GLE550e 4MATIC | AMG GLE43 | AMG GLE63 / AMG GLE63 S | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $52,000 / $54,500 | $65,650 | $66,300 | $67,150 | $101,690 / $108,840 |
| Length | 189.1” | 189.1” | 189.7” | 189.6” | 191” |
| Width | 84.3” | 84.3” | 84.3” | 84.3” | 84.3” |
| Height | 70.7” | 70.7” | 70.7” | 69.3” | 69.4” / 69.3” |
| Wheelbase | 114.8” | 114.8” | 114.8” | 114.8” | 114.8” |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 3.0L V6 biturbo | 3.0L V6 biturbo + Electric Motor (Hybrid) | AMG-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo | Handcrafted AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo |
| Performance | 302 hp | 329 hp | 436 hp (combined) | 362 hp | 550 hp / 577 hp |
| Transmission | 7G-TRONIC | 9G-TRONIC | 7G-TRONIC | AMG-enhanced 9G-TRONIC | AMG SPEEDSHIFT® PLUS 7G-TRONIC |
| 0-60 mph (sec) | 7.5 | 5.9 | 5.3 | 5.6 | 4.2 / 4.1 |
| Top speed (mph) | 130 | 130 | 152 (80 electric) | 130 | 155 / 174 |
| Main competitors | BMW X5, Acura MDX, Lexus RX | BMW X5, Acura MDX, Lexus RX | BMW X5, Acura MDX, Lexus RX | N/A | N/A |
This table offers a concise comparison of the different models, highlighting the variations in performance and specifications across the 2017 Mercedes GLE lineup.
Conclusion
The 2017 Mercedes GLE represented a compelling option in the luxury SUV market. With a range of models, from the well-rounded GLE350 to the powerful AMG variants, and a host of standard and optional features, the GLE catered to a broad spectrum of buyers. Its blend of luxury, performance, and technology solidified its position as a leading contender in its class. For those considering a pre-owned luxury SUV, the Mercedes GLE 2017 remains a model worth exploring.
