Why the Mercedes-Benz GLE Remains a Top Luxury SUV Choice

There are premium SUVs, and then there is the Mercedes-Benz GLE. Relaxed comfort, advanced technology, and spirited performance all come with the experience of driving a GLE, making it the vehicle of choice for many Long Island buyers who appreciate a premium driving experience. Before you schedule a test-drive, let our Mercedes-Benz of Southampton team share some of the reasons why the Mercedes-Benz GLE continues to be one of the most sought-after luxury SUVs on the market today.

Everyday Luxury

2026-GLE350.jpg
Image courtesy of Mercedes-Benz USA

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE is available in several trim levels: GLE 350, GLE 350 4MATIC, GLE 450 4MATIC, GLE 450e 4MATIC, and GLE 580 4MATIC, as well as the AMG GLE 53 4MATIC and AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC.

Standard features include heated and power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, synthetic leather upholstery, a 12.3-inch infotainment touch screen, integrated navigation, wireless charging, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You also get a power liftgate, sunroof, LED headlights, and 19-inch wheels on the GLE 350 and 350 4MATIC. Higher trims add ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, a Burmester premium sound system, and 20-inch wheels.

Performance and Powertrain Options: The Heart of the GLE

The Mercedes-Benz GLE offers a range of powertrain options tailored to your driving preferences. Starting with the GLE 350, you'll enjoy a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower, ideal for smooth, efficient daily driving without sacrificing refinement.

The GLE 450 also offers the 3.0-liter inline-six turbo engine with EQ Boost technology, a mild-hybrid system for a more dynamic and fuel-efficient driving experience. The GLE 450 produces 362 horsepower, which provides a great balance of solid performance and fuel efficiency, combining plenty of fun and a good amount of vigor. If you're looking for more power and precision handling, the GLE 580 comes with a 4.0-liter biturbo V-8 engine that delivers a thrilling 483 horsepower.

If you demand high performance, look no further than the AMG lineup. The GLE 53 AMG has a turbo-six inline and delivers 429 horsepower, while the GLE 63 S AMG has a handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V-8 and delivers 603 horsepower. Both models come with the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive and sport-tuned suspension and provide the kind of thrill you crave and the responsiveness you require.

Most GLE trims feature a standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive to give you optimal traction in any weather, a significant plus for navigating Long Island's varied terrain. The optional AIRMATIC air suspension with adaptive damping system adapts to road conditions for a smooth, agile ride, whether you're cruising down Montauk Highway or heading to upstate New York.

Interior Comfort and Luxury: The Perfect Cabin for Any Journey

The GLE welcomes you into an atmosphere of comfort, style, and intelligent design. With seating for five, your passengers will have plenty of legroom for those longer trips. The rear seat reclines, and rear-seat heating is available for enhanced comfort. If you need room for your weekend luggage, golf bags, or beach gear, the fold-flat rear seats offer the flexibility you need for wherever your journey takes you.

In the GLE, luxury abounds, even in the smallest details. Leather seating surfaces, hand-finished wood trim, or brushed aluminum trim exemplify Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship. The optional ENERGIZING comfort system can synchronize the lighting, climate, massage, and music selections to help set the mood.

Technology is seamlessly integrated to make every drive easier. The MBUX infotainment system has a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, which includes a high-resolution touch screen. Natural voice recognition allows you to say, "Hey Mercedes," and control the navigation, music, and other features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard for easy connections to your smartphone.

Comfort features such as heated and ventilated front seats, multizone automatic climate control, and even massaging front seats make your commute that much better. You have the option of 64 ambient lighting colors to set the mood, whether on a sunset cruise to the Hamptons or a quiet night drive to Sag Harbor.

Advanced Safety Features: Protection at Every Turn

Safety is a priority at Mercedes-Benz, and each GLE includes a wide range of active monitoring measures to help keep you and your passengers safe. Heated seats are standard on GLE 300s, as well as heated/ventilated seats on the GLE 450 and 580. All models come with Active Brake Assist, which detects vehicles and pedestrians in your path and responds with hard braking. Blind-spot assist and lane-keeping assist are also standard in every GLE. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality is available to help you maintain safe distances — even in stop-and-go traffic.

The PRE-SAFE system takes things further by preparing your GLE in the event of an imminent collision, tightening seatbelts, adjusting headrests, and closing windows to reduce the risk of injury. For an extra layer of confidence, the available 360-degree surround view system provides a bird's-eye perspective to make parking and tight maneuvers easier, whether in downtown Southampton or your driveway.

The following are fea