The 2016 Mercedes-benz Gle-class emerges as a sophisticated and aesthetically pleasing luxury crossover, offering a blend of comfort, technology, and performance. It maintains a handsome, albeit conservative, exterior styling that appeals to a broad audience seeking a premium SUV experience.
The entry-level GLE300d sets a high standard with its comprehensive list of standard features. It rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and incorporates an adaptive suspension system for enhanced ride quality. LED daytime running lights and taillights, along with front and rear foglights, ensure visibility. Practicality is addressed with automatic wipers, a sunroof, roof rack, rear privacy glass, power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors, and a power liftgate. Inside the cabin, dual-zone automatic climate control, elegant wood trim, and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel create a refined atmosphere. The leather-wrapped steering wheel includes paddle shifters for a sporty touch, while heated front seats, driver memory functions, and MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery provide comfort and convenience. LED accent lighting, the COMAND infotainment interface with an 8-inch display, Bluetooth connectivity, and an eight-speaker audio system with HD radio, CD player, and USB port cater to entertainment and connectivity needs. A suite of standard safety features further enhances the appeal of the GLE300d.
The GLE350 largely mirrors the GLE300d’s equipment list but distinguishes itself with standard 19-inch wheels, offering a slightly different aesthetic and stance.
For those desiring more features, the optional Premium 1 package, available for both the GLE300d and GLE350, adds significant value. This package includes a rearview camera for easier maneuvering, keyless ignition and entry for added convenience, a navigation system, satellite radio for entertainment variety, a rear 115-volt household-style power outlet for powering devices, a blind spot monitor for enhanced safety, and a lane-departure warning system to aid driver awareness.
Stepping up to the GLE400 trim brings a more powerful turbocharged engine and builds upon the Premium 1 package by incorporating its features as standard. It further elevates the luxury experience with 20-inch wheels, customizable multicolor ambient lighting, genuine leather upholstery, power lumbar support for the front passenger seat, ventilated front seats to enhance comfort in warmer climates, heated and cooled cupholders, a premium 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system for audiophiles, and distinctive body styling enhancements that set it apart visually.
Across the aforementioned trims, the Parking Assist package is offered, integrating a 360-degree camera system for comprehensive visibility and an automated parallel parking feature to simplify parking in urban environments. The Lighting package provides adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beam control, improving nighttime driving safety and illumination.
The AMG GLE 63 represents a significant leap in performance, featuring a robust turbocharged V8 engine. It boasts exclusive AMG 20-inch wheels, an AMG-tuned adaptive air suspension with adaptive stabilizer bars for superior handling, a sport exhaust system for an exhilarating sound, front and rear parking sensors, aluminum shift paddles and pedals, special leather upholstery, and the inclusion of both the Parking Assist and Lighting packages as standard.
At the pinnacle of the range, the AMG GLE 63 S amplifies the performance of the turbocharged V8 even further. It is equipped with larger 21-inch wheels, a carbon-fiber engine cover, a sport steering wheel, a suede headliner, and unique upholstery, solidifying its position as the ultimate performance variant of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class.
Beyond the trim levels and packages, a wide array of standalone options allows for extensive customization. These include alternative 19-, 20-, and 21-inch alloy wheel designs, a panoramic sunroof for an open-air feel, a trailer hitch for towing needs, adaptive air and off-road suspensions for varied driving conditions, three-zone climate control for enhanced passenger comfort, multicontour front seats with massage function for ultimate relaxation, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats for passenger warmth, wood-and-leather or heated steering wheel options, a rear-seat video entertainment system for passenger entertainment, and upgraded 14-speaker Harman Kardon or Bang & Olufsen premium audio systems for audiophile-grade sound.
In conclusion, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class provides a diverse range of models and a wealth of features and options, ensuring that buyers can find a configuration that perfectly matches their preferences and requirements within the luxury SUV segment.
