The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 stands as a compelling option in the luxury SUV market, offering a blend of comfort, technology, and performance. This model year brought a comprehensive suite of standard features and a range of optional packages to personalize the vehicle to individual preferences. Let’s delve into the details of what makes the 2017 GLE 350 a noteworthy contender.
Standard Features of the GLE 350
Mercedes-Benz equipped the 2017 GLE 350 with a robust set of standard features, emphasizing both convenience and style. On the exterior, the GLE 350 boasts 19-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its stance and visual appeal. LED daytime running lights and taillights ensure visibility and add a modern touch. Front and rear foglights, along with automatic wipers, contribute to safer driving in varying weather conditions. The inclusion of a sunroof and roof rack adds versatility, while rear privacy glass offers passenger comfort and security. Power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors, coupled with a power liftgate, enhance everyday usability.
Inside the cabin, the GLE 350 prioritizes comfort and sophistication. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized temperature settings for driver and passengers. Wood trim accents lend a touch of elegance to the interior. A power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and heated, power front seats with driver memory functions provide optimal driving position and comfort. MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery offers a luxurious feel, while LED accent lighting creates an inviting ambiance.
The technology within the 2017 GLE 350 is equally impressive. Mercedes’ COMAND electronics interface, featuring an 8-inch display, serves as the central hub for vehicle controls and information. A backup camera enhances safety during parking and maneuvering. 4G LTE data connection, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and an eight-speaker audio system with HD radio, a CD player, and a USB port provide comprehensive infotainment options. Furthermore, a suite of standard safety features is integrated, underscoring Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to occupant protection.
Optional Packages and Upgrades
For those seeking to further enhance their 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350, a range of optional packages were available. The Premium 1 package is a popular choice, adding keyless ignition and entry for enhanced convenience. Navigation system and satellite radio expand infotainment capabilities, while Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration seamlessly connects mobile devices. Audiophiles will appreciate the upgraded 14-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. Practical additions include a rear 115-volt household-style power outlet, along with blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning systems for increased safety awareness.
Stepping up to the Premium 2 package includes all features of Premium 1, and further elevates the vehicle with adaptive LED headlights and automatic high-beam headlights for improved visibility at night. Heated and cooled cupholders add a touch of luxury, while rear sunshades enhance passenger comfort in sunny conditions. The Premium 3 package represents the pinnacle of optional enhancements, incorporating adaptive cruise control and a collision avoidance system for advanced driver assistance. An automated parking system simplifies parking in tight spaces.
For a sportier aesthetic, the Exterior Sport package equips the GLE 350 with 20-inch wheels and an AMG body kit, giving it a more aggressive stance. The Night package builds upon the Exterior Sport package, adding gloss-black exterior trim pieces and wheels for a distinctive and stylish appearance. Leather upholstery was also available as a standalone option for those desiring a more premium interior material.
Trim Levels Beyond the GLE 350
While the GLE 350 serves as an excellent entry point to the GLE-Class, Mercedes-Benz offered several other trim levels in 2017, each with its own unique character and features. The GLE 400 includes features from the Premium 1 and Exterior Sport packages as standard, and upgrades to a more powerful turbocharged engine and leather upholstery. Multicolor ambient interior lighting adds a personalized touch to the cabin ambiance. Notably, an Off-Road package was exclusively available for the GLE 400, adding features like low-range gearing and a front underbody skid plate for enhanced off-road capability.
The GLE 550e plug-in hybrid model combines efficiency with luxury, including Premium 1 features, leather upholstery, and unique cabin treatments. For performance enthusiasts, the AMG GLE 43, replacing the GLE 400, boasts a more powerful engine, AMG-exclusive 20-inch wheels, and an AMG-tuned adaptive air suspension for sportier handling. Exterior and interior styling upgrades, along with a sport exhaust, further differentiate the AMG GLE 43.
Moving up the AMG ladder, the AMG GLE 63 incorporates the features of the GLE 43, along with Premium 2 and Parking Assist packages. A turbocharged V8 engine delivers exhilarating performance, complemented by larger brakes and active stabilizer bars. Special leather upholstery and heated and ventilated seats enhance interior luxury. The range-topping AMG GLE 63 S pushes performance even further with an upgraded turbocharged V8 engine, 21-inch wheels, and unique interior trim elements.
Engine and Performance Specs
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth and responsive power. Fuel economy for the GLE 350 is EPA-rated at 20 mpg combined (18 city/23 highway) for the rear-wheel-drive version and 19 mpg combined (18 city/22 highway) for the 4Matic all-wheel-drive variant. In Edmunds performance testing, the GLE 350 4Matic achieved a 0-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds, which is competitive for its class.
Higher GLE trims offer even more potent powertrains. The AMG GLE 63 S, for example, features a turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 engine producing a remarkable 577 horsepower.
Towing Capability
For those needing to tow, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 offers respectable towing capabilities. The rear-wheel-drive GLE 350 can tow up to 6,600 pounds when properly equipped. The GLE 350 4Matic and all other GLE models increase this capacity to 7,200 pounds, providing ample capability for hauling trailers and recreational equipment.
Standalone Options
Beyond packages, the 2017 GLE-Class offered a range of standalone options to further customize the vehicle. These included a panoramic sunroof for an open and airy cabin feel, a trailer hitch for towing needs, and adaptive air and off-road suspensions for enhanced ride comfort and off-road prowess. Tri-zone climate control provides individualized climate settings for rear passengers. Multi-contour front seats with massage and ventilated front seats elevate front passenger comfort. Heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel add warmth in colder climates. For entertainment, a rear-seat entertainment system and upgraded Harman Kardon or Bang & Olufsen premium audio systems were available.
Conclusion
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 is a well-rounded luxury SUV that provides a solid foundation of standard features, a variety of optional packages for personalization, and a comfortable and refined driving experience. Its blend of luxury, technology, and capability makes it a strong contender for those seeking a premium SUV in the pre-owned market. Whether prioritizing standard luxury, advanced technology, sporty aesthetics, or powerful performance, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class lineup offers a diverse range of options to meet various needs and preferences, with the GLE 350 serving as a particularly appealing and accessible model.
