Mercedes-Benz GLE 2024 Review

In the luxury mid-to-large SUV market, consumers value both the brand prestige that brings a sense of identity and have clear demands for space practicality, technological features, and driving quality. The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC AMG Line FL (CKD), as a key player in this segment, not only retains the traditional luxury essence of Mercedes-Benz but also optimizes the price-to-configuration balance through localized CKD production. Its 3.0T inline-six MHEV hybrid system is a highlight of its powertrain. Our goal in this test drive is to evaluate the car’s real-world performance—from design details to driving experience—to see if it meets the expectations of luxury SUV users.

From the exterior, the design of the GLE 450 AMG Line combines the ruggedness typical of Mercedes SUVs with enhanced recognition through sporty details. The front features a large star-pattern grille paired with an AMG-style front bumper, while the combination of chrome trim and black lower cladding enhances the visual tension. The side profile displays smooth lines, with 21-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels filling the wheel arches, and sporty side skirts and fender flares further strengthening its muscular feel. The rear features smoked LED tail lights, whose illuminated three-pointed star light strips heighten its distinctiveness, and the dual chrome exhaust layout emphasizes its AMG Line sporty positioning. The lighting system comes standard with all-LED light sources, and the daytime running lights merge seamlessly with the grille, exuding a high-tech vibe when lit at night.

Inside the cabin, the sense of luxury is mainly conveyed through materials and layout. The dashboard is wrapped in soft leather and paired with wood grain panels and metal trims. All touchpoints are made of soft materials. The 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch central touchscreen form the signature dual-screen design of the Mercedes-Benz family. The central screen is equipped with the latest MBUX intelligent system, supporting voice commands and gesture controls with smooth and quick responses. For the seating, the front seats support electric adjustment, memory, heating, and ventilation functions. The rear seats are configured with a 40:20:40 split-folding design to meet various storage needs. For practical features, the front row is equipped with a wireless charging pad, both front and rear rows have USB-C ports, and the rear independent air-conditioning and panoramic sunroof enhance the overall riding comfort.

Regarding space, the vehicle dimensions are 4924mm×2157mm×1797mm, with a wheelbase of 2995mm, which is considered mainstream in this class. The front-row seating space is ample, with a 180cm tall passenger still having a fist’s worth of headroom after adjusting the seat. The rear legroom provides up to two fists' worth of space, and the headroom allows for one fist, ensuring that even with three occupants, it does not feel cramped. The trunk offers a standard cargo space of 630 liters, which can be expanded to 1790 liters by folding down the rear seats. It can easily accommodate a baby stroller or large suitcases, making it fully sufficient for daily family use.

In terms of powertrain, the 3.0T inline-six engine is paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system, generating a maximum power of 381PS and a peak torque of 500N·m. The electric motor provides an additional 20PS of power and 200N·m of torque. It is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and a 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time is 5.6 seconds. During actual driving, the intervention of the mild-hybrid system in the starting phase makes the power response more efficient, with virtually no turbo lag. Switching to Sport mode increases the throttle sensitivity, and during mid-range acceleration and overtaking, the transmission shifts actively with ample power reserves. Acceleration beyond 100km/h still offers a significant push-back sensation. In Eco mode, the mild-hybrid system shuts down the engine during coasting, effectively improving fuel efficiency.

The handling and chassis performance are in line with the positioning of a luxury SUV. The steering wheel is precise with minimal play, light at low speeds for easy parking, and becomes stable at high speeds, providing sufficient road feel. The chassis uses front and rear multi-link independent suspension, tuned for comfort but retaining a certain level of support. When passing over speed bumps or bumpy roads, the suspension effectively filters out vibrations, keeping the body stable. During cornering, the all-wheel-drive system reasonably distributes torque, keeping body roll within acceptable levels without noticeable swaying.

In terms of fuel consumption, the official combined fuel consumption is 10.7L/100km. During our test drive, which covered city traffic and highway conditions, the actual fuel consumption was about 11.5L/100km. Considering the 3.0T engine and the vehicle's weight, this figure is reasonable. The braking performance is stable, with a linear brake pedal travel. During emergency braking, the vehicle remains stable with no significant forward dipping.

As for ride comfort, noise control is well-handled. Wind and tire noise are suppressed to low levels during high-speed driving, and engine noise is only slightly transmitted at high RPMs. The seat cushions are soft yet sufficiently supportive, making long journeys less tiring. The addition of the 48V mild hybrid system ensures smoother start-stop transitions with nearly no noticeable vibrations.

Overall, the core advantages of the 2024 GLE 450 4MATIC AMG Line FL (CKD) lie in three aspects: Firstly, the powerful performance and relatively reasonable fuel efficiency brought by the 3.0T inline-six MHEV system. Secondly, the luxurious yet practical interior configurations, especially the dual-screen setup and Burmester audio system, which stand out among competitors in the same segment. Thirdly, the cost advantage brought by local CKD production, offering better value compared to the imported version. Compared to the BMW X5 30i of the same class, the GLE 450 offers stronger performance and richer configurations. Compared to the Audi Q7 55 TFSI, it has an edge in brand prestige and interior luxury.

This car is clearly aimed at a specific audience: families who place a premium on brand luxury and need sufficient space for daily travel while also valuing the driving pleasure brought by robust performance. It is also suited for business professionals who prioritize comfort and technological features, as its sturdy exterior and luxurious interior cater to business occasions.

In summary, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC AMG Line FL (CKD) is a well-rounded luxury midsize SUV. It strikes a good balance between performance, luxury, and practicality, making it equally suitable for family use and business scenarios.