Messing with the big boys

Bigger than before, Merc’s new GLE is a smart SUV option - but what’s it like to live with?

This is the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLE, and it’s the latest incarnation of Merc’s SUV range which started with the old ML-class way back in the late-1990s. It’s now longer, wider and lower than ever and it’s available with seven seats for the first time too. Forming up as one of eight SUVs in Merc’s current range, the GLE slides in between the smaller GLC and the larger GLS. And with so many rivals on the market, the GLE isn’t alone elsewhere, either. We went out in the four-cylinder powered GLE300d to see what it’s like.

WHAT’S NEW?

It’s packed with tech, including the latest MBUX infotainment system. Most of the higher-powered models feature air suspension as standard; our test car would usually have ridden on steel springs but had air suspension fitted as an optional extra instead. Merc has overhauled the perception of quality inside too, with plenty of sturdy materials to help justify the price - even this relatively low-powered model cost from £55,685. WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? This is a big car but thumb the starter button and kick the engine into life and you’ll quickly find that the GLE is a far more compact car to drive than its outwards appearance would lead you to believe. The ride is excellent on air too, ironing out almost all of the potholes and road imperfections that are such a frequent occurrence on the UK’s roads. HOW DOES IT LOOK?

The GLE is a large car and therefore quite the presence out the on the road. The front grille is uber-wide, with a Mercedes badge so large that it looks as if it’s prepped and ready to draw other cars up and into it. Ours was finished in a silver colour which didn’t do it any favours, however; we’d probably opt for a darker shade to give it more impact. WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

The GLE 300d starts at £55,685, which is a hefty price tag. You do get plenty of kit, however, our AMG Line-test car included a full sports bodykit, LED performance headlights and ambient lighting with a heady 64 colours to pick from. But it’s the new MBUX infotainment system which is the biggest difference here - it’s one of the best systems around and is still a breeze to use. THE VERDICT

The GLE makes a big first impression. The main feature is the ride; it’s super-refined and transforms the driving experience. It also means the GLE is a great option for those doing big miles regularly. It’s a wellrounded package which manages to tick all the boxes you’d want ticked on a four-wheel-drive. An SUV for every day? The GLE feels like just such a vehicle.