From behind the wheel, the first thing you notice about the GLE 450 is how quietly it moves. The inline-six, aided by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, starts without drama and idles with a whisper. But this is not a car that announces itself. It’s a Mercedes that prefers to do its work without fanfare, which is exactly what most buyers in this segment want.
I spent a week with the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450, driving it through Los Angeles traffic, over the canyons above Malibu, and on a quick highway loop to Palm Springs. If you’re considering this mid-size SUV, here’s what you need to know.
Performance and Powertrain
The GLE 450 is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six cylinder engine, producing 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, rarely hunting for gears. The EQ Boost mild-hybrid system adds a temporary 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft during hard acceleration, which fills in the turbo lag nicely. Mercedes claims 0–60 mph in 5.5 seconds; I recorded 5.6 seconds on a cool morning with half a tank of fuel. That’s quick enough to merge with confidence but not sporty enough to excite enthusiasts.
Electrically assisted steering is accurate but numb—a common trait across the Mercedes lineup. The air suspension (standard on the GLE 450) soaks up most road imperfections, though sharp impacts still transmit a thud. In Sport mode, the chassis firms up and the transmission holds gears longer, but this is not an AMG. The GLE 450 is a comfortable cruiser, not a corner carver. Observed fuel economy was 21 mpg combined, close to the EPA estimate of 22 mpg.
Interior and Technology
Step inside the GLE 450 and you’re greeted by Mercedes’ latest MBUX infotainment system, presented on a 12.3-inch touchscreen that flows into a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The interface is crisp and reasonably intuitive, though the touchpad on the center console is redundant and I never used it. Voice commands work well thanks to the “Hey Mercedes” wake word.
Materials overall are excellent: soft leather on the dash and door panels, real metal trim, and heated seats that are among the best in the business. The second row offers generous legroom even with three adults, and the third row (optional) is strictly for children. Cargo space measures 33.3 cubic feet behind the second row and 74.3 cubic feet with the seats folded—competitive but not class-leading.
One gripe: the glossy black plastic around the center controls shows fingerprints instantly. A matte finish would be more practical. And while the 64-color ambient lighting looks stunning at night, the sheer number of customization options can be overwhelming.
Driving Impressions and Features
On the freeway, the GLE 450 is a serene place to spend hours. The cabin stays quiet at 70 mph, wind noise is minimal, and the adaptive cruise control with lane centering works smoothly, making stop-and-go traffic less tedious. The optional augmented-reality navigation that overlays arrows on a live camera feed is genuinely useful in unfamiliar city centers.
Off-road capability is present but not a priority for most buyers. The GLE 450 comes with Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive and can handle dirt roads and moderate snow with no drama. There’s even an off-road mode that displays gradient and steering angle, but the low-profile tires and lack of serious underbody protection mean you shouldn’t take this anywhere more challenging than a gravel driveway.
Pricing and Competition
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 starts at $63,800 including destination. A well-optioned example like the one I tested—with the Premium Package, Pinnacle interior, and a few driver assists—easily reaches $78,000. That puts it head-to-head with the BMW X5 xDrive40i, the Audi Q7 55, and the Volvo XC90 B6. The BMW is slightly more engaging to drive; the Audi has a nicer interior; the Volvo is safer. The GLE 450 bests them all in ride comfort and brand cachet, but it trails dynamically.
Real-World Owner Feedback on the GLE 450
To get a broader perspective, I combed through owner reviews on forums like MBWorld and Reddit. The consensus mirrors my own experience: the GLE 450’s ride comfort and engine refinement are near-universally praised. Many owners specifically mention the quiet cabin on long trips, with one user noting it “makes 10-hour drives feel like three.”
Common complaints include the finicky touchpad (which most owners ignore in favor of the touchscreen) and the optional third row, which is widely described as a “knee-crusher.” Some early 2020 models had issues with the 48-volt system, but 2024 reports show improved reliability. The glossy black plastic drew criticism from about a third of owners, who found it scratched easily.
On the plus side, resale value holds up well: a three-year-old GLE 450 typically retains about 55% of its MSRP, beating the Audi Q7 (50%) and trailing the BMW X5 (58%). Maintenance costs average $1,200 per year for routine service, which is on par with competitors. Most owners said they would buy again, citing the balance of luxury and everyday usability.
The Verdict: Pros, Cons, and Whether You Should Actually Buy One
Pros
- Silent, refined powertrain
- Plush ride quality
- Excellent infotainment and interior materials
- Strong resale value
Cons
- Dull steering and handling
- Expensive options pile on quickly
- Third row is too small for adults
- Some cheap interior trim pieces (glossy black plastic)
Bottom Line
The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 is an exceptionally well-rounded luxury SUV that prioritizes comfort and quiet over driving excitement. If your commute or road trips demand a serene cabin and you value a star on the grille, this is your pick. If you want sporty handling or a more modern interior, test the BMW X5 or Audi Q7 before signing.
**Score: 7.5 / 10**