Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Hybrid 2021 Review

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE is Mercedes' midsize luxury SUV. Mercedes redesigned it last year, and ever since it's maintained a top spot in our rankings because of its high levels of luxury, refinement and technology. This year, Mercedes is expanding the GLE's lineup with the performance-focused AMG GLE 53 and 63 S variants. These new performance versions only add to the segment's most impressive range of engines, topped by the raucous 603-horsepower AMG GLE 63 S.

The GLE continues to offer optional third-row seating, exceptional luxury appointments and Mercedes' advanced MBUX infotainment system. It's a great pick for a luxury SUV, though you might also want to check out the Audi Q7, BMW X5 and Volvo XC90 as part of your SUV search. Want more details on the GLE? Check out our Expert Rating for our in-depth test and evaluation.

Which GLE-Class does MatoCar recommend?

For not a whole lot of extra money than the entry-level four-cylinder GLE, we'd strongly recommend the GLE 450. The 450 upgrades you to a strong and smooth six-cylinder engine that's also respectably fuel-efficient. To that we'd add the Premium package (premium audio system, surround-view camera) and the Driver Assistance Package Plus (an array of extra safety features).

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is a midsize luxury SUV with five available trim levels: GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 580, AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S. All trim levels come standard with all-wheel drive (4Matic in Mercedes-Benz speak) with the exception of the GLE 350, which comes in your choice of rear- or all-wheel drive. All GLE models come standard with five-passenger seating but can be optioned with three rows to seat seven people, with the exception of the AMG GLE 63 S, which is five-passenger only.

GLE 350 Feature highlights for this base GLE include:

• Turbocharged four-cylinder engine (255 hp)
• LED headlights
• 19-inch wheels
• Power-adjustable, heated front seats
• Keyless entry and push-button start
• Power liftgate
• Sunroof
• Simulated leather upholstery (MB-Tex)
• 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen
• 12.3-inch digital instrument panel
• Integrated navigation system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Automatic emergency braking (warns if a front impact is imminent and applies the brakes if you don't respond in time)
• Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)

GLE 450 Adds the following features:

• Turbocharged six-cylinder (362 hp)
• Wireless device charging
• Multi-color ambient interior lighting

GLE 580 Ups performance and luxury with:

• Turbocharged V8 (483 hp)
• Adaptive air suspension (can raise or lower the ride height of the vehicle)
• 20-inch wheels
• AMG-Line styling package

AMG GLE 53 Focuses on performance with:

• Turbocharged six-cylinder engine (429 hp)
• Active LED headlights
• 20-inch AMG wheels
• Upgraded brakes
• Sporty AMG exterior and interior trim

AMG GLE 63 S Maximizes performance with:

• Turbocharged V8 (603 hp)
• 21-inch wheels
• Electronic limited-slip differential (for enhanced traction)
• More supportive seats with AMG badging

The GLE comes well equipped on its own, but Mercedes-Benz still offers an assortment of styling, comfort and technology options. Highlights include:

3rd-Row Seat package Available for all trims except the AMG GLE 63 S:

• Third-row seats
• Upgraded second-row seats with power adjustment
• Two USB-C ports in the third row

Driver Assistance Package Plus Available on all trims, it adds a host of advanced driver aids, including:

• Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the vehicle and the car in front)
• Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
• Evasive steering assist (enhances the forward collision mitigation system with steering-based collision avoidance)
• Speed limit assist (detects and displays posted speed limit signs on the instrument panel,  alerting you if the limit is exceeded)

Warmth and Comfort package Available on all trims:

• Rapid-heating front seats
• Heated front armrests and upper door panels

Exterior Lighting package Enhances nighttime visibility with:

• Ultra-wide LED high beams
• Automatic high-beam headlights

AMG Line Interior package Adds a touch of sport to most GLE trims with:

• Sport-themed interior accents
• Sport front seats
• Aluminum pedals
• Sport steering wheel
• Unique floor mats

Premium Package Available on GLE 350 and 450 trims:

• Upgraded audio system
• Surround-view camera system (gives you a top-down view of the GLE and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
• Household-type 115-volt power outlet

Other key stand-alone options include:

• Panoramic sunroof
• Leather or premium leather upholstery
• Multicontour front seats with massage
• Four-zone climate control