2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Review

Powering the GLE 400 is a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (329 horsepower, 354 pound-feet of torque) and a nine-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive (4Matic) is standard. The generous list of standard features starts with 19-inch alloy wheels, automatic wipers, a sunroof, power-folding and auto-dimming mirrors, and a power liftgate.

Inside, you'll find dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable steering wheel, heated front seats, a 10-way power driver seat (with four-way power lumbar adjustment and memory functions), simulated-leather upholstery, Mercedes' COMAND electronics interface with a 7-inch display, a CD player, and two USB ports. There are also keyless start and 4G LTE Wi-Fi. Standard advanced safety features include a rearview camera, an automatic emergency braking system and crosswind assist.

Three optional packages that encompass many of the features are available for the GLE. The Premium 1 package is one of the most comprehensive for the GLE 400, adding keyless ignition and entry, a navigation system with an 8-inch screen, a touchpad controller for the central display, satellite radio, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, a 14-speaker premium Harman Kardon audio system, a 115-volt household-style power outlet, blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning.

The Premium 2 package adds adaptive LED headlights, automatic high-beam control, heated and cooled front cupholders, multi-color interior ambient lighting, illuminated doorsills, rear-window sunshades, and a fold-down pass-through behind the rear-center armrest. On top of that, the Premium 3 package features a 360-degree parking camera, adaptive cruise control, automated steering, a collision avoidance system, lane departure intervention and an automated parking system.

The first of the performance-oriented models is the AMG GLE 43. It features a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (385 hp, 384 lb-ft), a nine-speed automatic transmission, 20-inch wheels, an AMG-tuned adaptive air suspension, a sport exhaust, exterior styling upgrades, a flat-bottom steering wheel, simulated-leather upholstery, and the contents of the Premium 1 package.

Next up is the AMG GLE 63, which adds a stout twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 (550 hp, 516 lb-ft), a seven-speed automatic transmission, upgraded brakes, summer performance tires, active stabilizer bars, a sport steering wheel, a 10-way power passenger seat (with four-way power lumbar and memory functions), upgraded leather upholstery, wood trim, a faux suede headliner, and the contents of the Premium 2 package.

Finally, there's the top-dog AMG GLE 63 S, motivated by an even more powerful version of the turbo V8 (577 hp, 561 lb-ft). It also adds 21-inch wheels, red brake calipers and faux suede steering-wheel inserts.

Many features included in the upper trims or packages can be added separately. Notable stand-alone options include a panoramic sunroof, a trailer hitch, tri-zone climate control, multicontour front seats with massage, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon or a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system.