Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 4Matic vs Mercedes-Benz ML Class

What's the difference between the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 and the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class

Released in 2020, the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 (The "L" is for luxury) was a replacement for the ML-Class. The ML-Class was renamed to reflect the new Mercedes-Benz naming convention. Along the way, it also received a redesign. Now into its fourth generation, the Mercedes-Benz GLE offers two engine choices and some serious technology inside.

With the aging ML-class, it was clear the competition was heating up, so the ML needed to heat up too. The Mercedes-Benz GLE is the result.

WHAT IS THE MERCEDES-BENZ GLE 350?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is a larger vehicle than the ML-Class model it replaces. Composed of four-doors with seating for either five or seven passengers, the new fourth-generation Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 is a mid-sized sport utility vehicle made in Tuscaloosa. Two-thirds of the Alabama factory's production is destined for retail markets around the World.

With the Mercedes-Benz GLE comes several power options, including the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350, powered by a 2.0L inline-4 turbo with mild hybrid drive engine making 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This award-winning turbocharged four-cylinder is matched to a nine-speed automatic transmission with rear- or available all-wheel-drive 4Matic powertrain. The new Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 now rides on a longer wheelbase, with more second-row legroom and space for an available third-row bench seat, if ordered.

A 3.0-liter supercharged inline 6-cylinder engine powers another model option. Known as the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450, it produces 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.

The base Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 rides on a traditional steel-spring and damper suspension system. Buyers can step up to an available AIRMATIC suspension, which smooths the ride out considerably. Stepping up further increases ride compliance with a new E-Active Body Control. This system offers on-the-fly adjustability of the wheel's springs and dampers. So adaptable, it can even bounce the vehicle if stuck in sand. The E-ABC system also does its part to eliminate body roll while going through the sweepers.

COMPARING THE MERCEDES-BENZ GLE 350 TO THE MERCEDES-BENZ ML-CLASS

Starting with the new grille and front end on the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350, it has taken on the appearance of its sporting big brother, the Mercedes-Benz SL. Displaying more aero touches than ever before, the Mercedes-Benz GLE is designed to slice through the air with less resistance and drag. Previously, the Mercedes-Benz ML utilized a twin lamella grille design that broke the grille into thirds. This results in a much cleaner design that lends an air of elegance to this fourth-generation crossover.

The new front fascia is more aggressive, and the rear boasts of a smartly sculpted and more athletic. The wheelbase is now 3.2 inches longer, which leads to more interior space, shorter overhangs and increased agility off-road. The C-pillars lend an epic lean that enhances the forward motion of the vehicle. This way, it appears in motion even while parked.

INSIDE THE Mercedes-Benz GLE 350

The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 is a bit swankier than the ML-Class! Credit should go to the latest technological innovations available from Mercedes-Benz. It begins with throne-like seats that can now be enhanced with the available Warmth and Comfort package that heats up everything from the seats to the armrests and door panels. Go a little bit crazier and order the Energizing Comfort package with fragrance system, front-seat ventilation, and massage functions. Trust us; there's nothing else like it on the road today.

The controls inside the Mercedes-Benz GLC 350 are centered around a side-by-side arrangement of a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch center console display. The result is almost 25 inches of uninterrupted screens that appear like a modern jet aircraft's glass cockpit. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also along for the ride. There is a larger panoramic sunroof that is now 50-percent larger than the model it replaces.

The center console is where you will find the all-new Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), which is now standard on the GLE. A much more stable interface, the new control is a touchpad-style device that anchors a level of redundant controls to operate everything from Audio, Navigation, Car and Communications settings.

The newest feature inside the Mercedes-Benz GLE is the "Hey Mercedes" feature that offers controls of the Burmester premium audio system, navigation, cellular connectivity and more. With it, the user says, "Hey Mercedes," as you would to an Amazon Alexa device. When it responds, ask for directions, initiate a call, or even change the radio channel without touching a screen or dial.

SAFETY FIRST WITH THE MERCEDES-BENZ GLE 350

The new Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 and Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 crossovers come with a wide range of safety features and equipment to provide confidence for all occupants. The system includes driver and passenger airbags, stability control, traction control, blind-spot alerts, child safety locks, child seat anchors, collision preparation, collision warning system, and the driver attention assist monitor. That last one shows you a cup of coffee, implying you may be getting sleepy.

Despite all the other safety tech, we still think the best is Pre-Safe Plus. The Pre-Safe system senses that a collision might be imminent and will help you to prepare for it. Sensors detecting potentially dangerous situations will adjust front head restraints, tighten seat belts, and even close the windows and sunroofs before impact.

THE BEST OR NOTHING

It's these items and more that help to reinforce the message that with Mercedes-Benz GLE 350, "it's the best or nothing." Please visit Mercedes-Benz of Rochester to see Mercedes-Benz best of 2021 for yourself.