The 2017 Gle Mercedes-Benz marked a significant year for this luxury SUV, continuing its legacy as a trendsetter in the market. Originally introduced as the M-Class in 1998, the GLE entered its third generation, offering a blend of sophistication, performance, and cutting-edge technology. This guide provides a detailed overview of the 2017 GLE Mercedes lineup, covering models, pricing, key features, and specifications to help you understand what made this vehicle a standout choice.
2017 GLE Model Lineup and MSRP
Mercedes-Benz offered a diverse range of GLE models in 2017 to cater to various preferences and performance needs. Below is a breakdown of the models and their Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP), excluding the $925 destination and delivery charge:
- GLE350: Starting at $52,000
- GLE350 4MATIC: Starting at $54,500
- GLE400 4MATIC: Starting at $65,650
- GLE550e 4MATIC (Plug-In Hybrid): Starting at $66,300
- Mercedes-AMG GLE43: Starting at $67,150
- Mercedes-AMG GLE63: Starting at $101,690
- Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S: Starting at $108,840
This pricing structure reflects the increasing levels of performance and luxury offered across the GLE range, from the well-equipped GLE350 to the high-performance AMG models.
Key Updates for the 2017 GLE Model Year
The 2017 model year introduced subtle yet notable enhancements to the GLE, focusing on aesthetics and technology:
- New Paint Options: Selenite Gray and Brilliant Blue were added to the exterior color palette, offering buyers fresh and sophisticated choices to personalize their GLE.
- Standard Rearview Camera: Recognizing the importance of safety and convenience, a rearview camera became a standard feature across all 2017 GLE models, enhancing driver visibility during parking and maneuvering.
- 4G LTE WiFi Hotspot: Keeping occupants connected on the go, the 2017 GLE incorporated 4G LTE WiFi capabilities, transforming the vehicle into a mobile hotspot for seamless internet access.
These updates, while seemingly minor, contributed to an improved ownership experience and kept the 2017 GLE Mercedes competitive in the luxury SUV segment.
Standard Feature Highlights Across the 2017 GLE Range
The 2017 GLE Mercedes was generously equipped with a range of standard features designed to enhance comfort, convenience, safety, and connectivity. Key highlights included:
- Heated Front Seats: Providing warmth and comfort in colder climates, heated front seats were standard, ensuring a pleasant driving experience year-round.
- KEYLESS-START: For effortless vehicle operation, the KEYLESS-START system allowed drivers to start the engine with the push of a button, without needing to insert a key.
- Remote Start: Adding to convenience, remote start functionality enabled drivers to start the vehicle remotely, pre-heating or pre-cooling the cabin before entering.
- Rear View Camera: As mentioned, the standard rearview camera enhanced safety and ease of parking.
- Active Brake Assist: A crucial safety feature, Active Brake Assist could help mitigate or prevent frontal collisions by automatically applying the brakes in critical situations.
- Auto-dimming Mirrors: Both the rearview and driver-side mirrors featured auto-dimming functionality, reducing glare from headlights at night for improved visibility.
- mbrace® Services: The GLE came standard with 5 years of mbrace® services, offering connectivity features and access to assistance. New upgrade packages were also available to expand these services.
- PRE-SAFE® System: Mercedes-Benz’s PRE-SAFE® system was standard, designed to prepare the vehicle and occupants for a potential collision by tightening seatbelts, adjusting seats, and closing windows.
- Crosswind Assist: Enhancing stability in strong crosswinds, Crosswind Assist helped drivers maintain control of the vehicle.
- Parking Pilot: Making parking easier, Parking Pilot could assist with both parallel and perpendicular parking maneuvers.
These standard features underscore Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to providing a luxurious and technologically advanced SUV experience in the 2017 GLE.
Enhanced Features in the 2017 GLE400 4MATIC and GLE550e 4MATIC
Building upon the already impressive standard features, the GLE400 4MATIC and GLE550e 4MATIC models offered additional enhancements, including:
- COMAND® Navigation with 8’’ Color Display: A more sophisticated infotainment system, COMAND® Navigation provided advanced navigation features and a larger 8-inch color display for improved user interface.
- Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto: Smartphone integration became seamless with standard Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto, allowing drivers to access compatible apps, navigation, and media through the vehicle’s infotainment system.
- Harman/kardon LOGIC7® Sound System: Audiophiles would appreciate the upgraded Harman/kardon LOGIC7® sound system, delivering a premium audio experience.
- Lane Tracking Package: This package included Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, further enhancing safety by monitoring lane markings and blind spots and alerting the driver to potential hazards.
These added features in the GLE400 4MATIC and GLE550e 4MATIC models elevated the luxury and technology offerings, appealing to buyers seeking a more premium experience.
AMG GLE Models: Performance and Features
For driving enthusiasts, the 2017 GLE Mercedes AMG models delivered exhilarating performance and distinctive styling. Key features of the AMG GLE lineup included:
Mercedes-AMG GLE43:
- AMG-enhanced 3.0L V6 Biturbo Engine: A potent engine delivering enhanced performance compared to the standard GLE models.
- AMG-enhanced 9G-TRONIC 9-speed Automatic Transmission: Optimized for sporty driving, this transmission offered quick and precise gear changes.
- AMG Performance 4MATIC: AMG Performance 4MATIC provided enhanced traction and handling, distributing power to all four wheels for optimal grip.
- AMG Sport Suspension based on AIRMATIC: Combining comfort and performance, the AMG sport suspension offered adaptive damping for a dynamic driving experience.
Mercedes-AMG GLE63 & AMG GLE63 S:
- Handcrafted AMG 5.5L V8 Biturbo Engine: The pinnacle of performance, these models featured a handcrafted V8 engine delivering immense power and torque.
- AMG SPEEDSHIFT® PLUS 7G-TRONIC: Specifically tuned for the high-performance V8 engine, this transmission ensured rapid gear shifts and optimal power delivery.
- Parking Pilot & Parking Package: Including Surround View System: These models included advanced parking assistance features, including a surround view system for enhanced visibility in tight spaces.
The AMG GLE models were designed to deliver a thrilling driving experience while maintaining the luxury and practicality of the GLE SUV.
Optional Features and Packages for the 2017 GLE
Buyers of the 2017 GLE Mercedes had a wide array of optional features and packages to further customize their vehicles. Some notable options included:
- Plug-In Hybrid Technology (GLE550e 4MATIC): For increased efficiency, the GLE550e offered plug-in hybrid capability, allowing for electric driving and reduced emissions.
- AIRMATIC® Package: This package provided an adaptive air suspension system for enhanced ride comfort and handling.
- Premium Packages (Premium 1, Premium 2, Premium 3): These packages bundled together popular optional features, offering value and convenience. Examples included Harman/kardon LOGIC7® sound system, COMAND® Navigation, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio, Lane Tracking Package, KEYLESS-GO®, and more.
- Driver Assistance Package (within Premium 3): This comprehensive safety package included advanced driver-assistance systems such as Distance Pilot DISTRONIC®, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, PRE-SAFE® PLUS, and more, representing the latest in safety technology.
The extensive list of optional features allowed buyers to tailor their 2017 GLE Mercedes to their specific needs and preferences, further enhancing the luxury ownership experience.
2017 GLE: A Summary of a Trend-Setting Luxury SUV
The 2017 GLE Mercedes-Benz continued the model’s tradition of being a leader in the luxury SUV segment. It offered a compelling combination of luxury, performance, technology, and safety. From the efficient GLE350 to the high-performance AMG models and the innovative GLE550e plug-in hybrid, the 2017 GLE lineup provided a diverse range of options to meet the demands of discerning buyers. Its blend of on-road refinement, off-road capability (with 4MATIC models), and a wealth of features made it a strong contender against competitors like the BMW X5, Acura MDX, and Lexus RX.
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE Specifications: A Detailed Look
For a detailed comparison of specifications across different 2017 GLE models, refer to the table below:
| GLE350 / GLE350 4MATIC | GLE400 4MATIC | 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” |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | n/a | n/a | 5,456 | 4,987 | 5,203 / 5,225 |
| Fuel Economy | 12/23/20 & 28/22/19 MPG | 18/23/20 MPG | 20/23/21 MPG & 39/50/43 MPGe | 17/ 23/ 20 MPG | 13/17/15 MPG |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 3.0L V6 biturbo | 3.0L V6 biturbo (Plug-In Hybrid) | AMG-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo | Handcrafted AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo |
| Displacement | 3,498 cc | 2,996 cc | 2,996 cc | 2,996 cc | 5,461 cc |
| Drive Config. | RWD / 4MATIC | 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| Performance | 302 hp / 273 lb-ft | 329 hp / 354 lb-ft | 436 hp (combined) / 479 lb-ft (combined) | 362 hp / 384 lb-ft | 550 hp (GLE63) / 577 hp (GLE63 S) |
| 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 (electronically limited) | 130 (electronically limited) | 152 (80 in pure electric) | 130 (electronically limited) | 155 / 174 (electronically limited) |
| Main competitors | BMW X5, Acura MDX, Lexus RX | BMW X5, Acura MDX, Lexus RX | BMW X5, Acura MDX, Lexus RX | BMW X5 M, Range Rover Sport | BMW X5 M, Range Rover Sport SVR |
This comprehensive guide provides a thorough understanding of the 2017 GLE Mercedes, highlighting its diverse model range, key features, and specifications. Whether you are a potential buyer or simply a car enthusiast, this information offers valuable insights into this significant model year for the GLE.
