Mercedes-Benz GLE-Klasse SUV 2019
Presented at the Paris Motor Show in October 2018, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV introduced the model’s second generation under the internal V167 designation. It replaced the W166 GLE and retained the role of a large premium family SUV while gaining a roomier body, MBUX infotainment and mild electrification on selected powertrains. European launch versions included the GLE 300 d 4MATIC and GLE 450 4MATIC, although engine choices and model-year naming differed by market. A nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive formed the technical foundation of the range. Optional systems such as E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL and a dedicated off-road transfer case broadened its abilities beyond ordinary road use.
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History
The GLE descends from the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, introduced in 1997 and widely regarded as one of the vehicles that helped establish the modern premium SUV category. Mercedes-Benz changed the M-Class name to GLE in 2015, aligning the model more closely with the E-Class within its naming structure. The V167, unveiled in 2018, was therefore a new generation rather than a minor facelift of the W166. Mercedes-Benz revised the platform, exterior proportions, cabin layout and electronic systems. The vehicle made its public debut in Paris before reaching European and US dealerships in early 2019. European launch versions included the four-cylinder diesel GLE 300 d 4MATIC and the electrified inline-six petrol GLE 450 4MATIC. Depending on market and equipment, the new generation could also accommodate a third seating row, while introducing a major update to driver assistance and connectivity technology.
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Anecdotes
The V167 GLE introduced an unusual suspension feature through E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL. Using a 48-volt architecture, the system could vary suspension forces at each wheel independently and offer a cornering function that tilted the body into bends. Mercedes-Benz also included features rarely found on a road-oriented luxury SUV, such as individual wheel-height adjustment through the central display during off-road driving.
Production
Mercedes-Benz stated that the new GLE presented in 2018 was built at the company’s Tuscaloosa plant in Alabama, the long-standing US production site for its large SUVs. The launch of this generation formed part of the plant’s global manufacturing program, with GLE vehicles assembled for multiple markets. No official model-specific total for the number of GLE SUVs produced during the 2019 calendar year was identified in the sources consulted. Production figures for the vehicle should therefore not be confused with broader totals covering the Tuscaloosa facility or Mercedes-Benz’s entire SUV business.
Press reception
Contemporary reviews generally praised the GLE for its quiet cabin, build quality, comfort and strong engines. Consumer Reports noted smooth acceleration, careful interior finishing and generous towing ability, while criticizing vague steering and some complicated controls. MotorTrend likewise highlighted construction quality and both road and off-road competence, but listed relatively high fuel consumption and an outdated interior among the weaknesses of the US-market 2019 model. These comments require careful context because the European V167 GLE launched for 2019 was not always the same generation as the vehicle sold as a 2019 model year in the United States. Reviews of the AMG derivatives also reflected their firmer ride and more performance-focused character.
Evolution
Compared with the outgoing GLE, the V167 introduced a smoother, more aerodynamic shape while increasing interior space. The dashboard was redesigned around two 12.3-inch displays linked to the MBUX multimedia system. Selected versions also gained a 48-volt electrical architecture, including EQ Boost assistance in the GLE 450. Chassis choices ranged from conventional steel suspension to AIRMATIC air suspension and the optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL system, which could adjust spring and damping forces at each wheel. Off-road equipment was also developed further, with dedicated driving programs and an optional transfer case offering a low-range reduction on certain configurations. These changes expanded the GLE’s abilities without abandoning its road-focused luxury character.
Variants
The 2019 GLE SUV designation covers different market configurations. In Europe, the V167 launch range included the GLE 300 d 4MATIC, powered by a four-cylinder diesel engine, and the GLE 450 4MATIC, featuring an inline-six petrol engine with EQ Boost technology. Additional petrol and diesel versions joined the range over time, while trim levels and equipment packages varied between countries. The standard GLE SUV was distinct from the GLE Coupé through its more upright body and greater emphasis on practicality. AMG derivatives belonged to the same model family but represented separate, performance-focused variants rather than ordinary GLE versions. In the United States, the 2019 model year largely referred to the previous generation, so the applicable market must be identified before comparing specifications.
References
- Découvrez le Nouveau GLEMercedes-Benz France
Supports the 2018 presentation, early 2019 European availability, MBUX, 9G-TRONIC, 4MATIC, EQ Boost, suspension systems and launch GLE 450 information.
- Communiqué de presse : nouvelle Mercedes-Benz GLEMercedes-Benz France
Supports technical details concerning the automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive systems and off-road transfer-case options.
- Nuovo GLE: Il debutto sul mercato italiano con due motorizzazioni e tre versioniMercedes-Benz Italia
Supports the European launch combination of GLE 300 d 4MATIC and GLE 450 4MATIC, 48-volt technology, optional seven-seat configuration and early 2019 deliveries.
- The new Mercedes-Benz GLE: The SUV trendsetter, completely rethoughtMercedes-Benz Media
Supports the Paris 2018 debut, early 2019 market launch and production in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
- 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLEMercedes-Benz USA
Supports the US-market 2019 GLE equipment, transmission and drivetrain information, and helps distinguish that model year from the European V167 launch.
- 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE Road Test ReportConsumer Reports
Supports the reported strengths and weaknesses concerning refinement, acceleration, build quality, steering, ride and controls.
- 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Expert ReviewMotorTrend
Supports the US-market review comments on engines, build quality, road and off-road capability, efficiency and interior design.
- Mercedes-Benz US InternationalMercedes-Benz Group
Supports Tuscaloosa as a global production location for GLE SUVs.
