The Mercedes-Benz GLE, known for its power and luxury, is a model that has defined the midsize luxury SUV segment. Originally launched as the M-Class, it was rebranded in 2015, introducing the world to the GLE badge. Since then, the GLE has become a symbol of style, comfort and advanced technology in luxury SUVs. Let’s explore Mercedes Benz GLE history with each generation, showing its journey from the first model to the latest releases.
First Generation: 1997 – 2005 (Mercedes-Benz M-Class W163)
The Mercedes Benz GLE car history began its story as the M-Class. Launched in 1997, the M-Class W163 was Mercedes’ first modern SUV. It marked a significant shift, introducing the brand to the growing SUV market. Designed in America, the W163 offered solid performance on and off-road, with a spacious and comfortable interior. Throughout Mercedes-Benz’s history, the brand has used high-quality interiors in its vehicles.
The first-generation M-Class came with a range of petrol and diesel engines. It offered rear-wheel drive or Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. Models ranged from the ML 230, a four-cylinder, to the powerful ML 55 AMG with a V8 engine. Safety was also a focus, with features like electronic stability control and airbags. The W163 laid the groundwork for what would eventually become the GLE series.
Second Generation: 2005 – 2011 (Mercedes-Benz M-Class W164)
The second generation of the M-Class, the W164, launched in 2005. This model refined the features of the previous generation and introduced a more luxurious design. The W164 was larger than its predecessor, offering more interior space and a sleeker, modern look. Mercedes aimed to create a better balance between off-road capability and on-road comfort.
Engine options were expanded to include V6 and V8 engines and diesel options. The ML 63 AMG, powered by a 6.2-litre V8, became one of the most powerful luxury SUVs. Technology was also upgraded, with features like the AIRMATIC suspension, adaptive cruise control and a high-end sound system. The W164 was widely popular, making it one of the most recognisable SUVs of the era.
Third Generation: 2011 – 2015 (Mercedes-Benz M-Class W166)
The third generation, the W166, continued the M-Class legacy, focusing on luxury and advanced technology. Launched in 2011, the W166 featured a modern design with a sportier look and improved car aerodynamics. Its interior had a higher-quality feel, with more premium materials and better technology integration.
This model offered an even wider range of engines, from economical four-cylinder options to powerful V8s. The ML 63 AMG returned with a twin-turbocharged V8, providing even greater power. Mercedes focused on advanced driver assistance systems in this generation, with options like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring and active steering assist. In 2015, Mercedes rebranded the M-Class to the GLE, marking a new chapter for the SUV. If you are interested in this generation, you can checkout used M-class for sale in the UAE.
Fourth Generation: 2015 – 2019 (Mercedes-Benz GLE W166)
With the rebranding of the M-Class, the fourth-generation Mercedes-Benz GLE was born in 2015. The W166 GLE was largely a refreshed version of the previous model but came with new styling and an improved feature set. This generation included the standard GLE and the GLE Coupe, offering customers a more dynamic, sporty option.
The GLE 400 introduced a new 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, while the GLE 350d offered a popular diesel option. Additionally, Mercedes introduced a plug-in hybrid model, the GLE 500e, which could operate on electric power alone for short distances. The GLE 63 and GLE 63 S AMG models provided impressive performance with a V8 engine.
Fifth Generation: 2019 – Present (Mercedes-Benz GLE W167)
The fifth generation, introduced in 2019 as the W167, represents the current GLE model and marks the biggest evolution in the series. This generation was developed on a new platform with a longer wheelbase, allowing optional third-row seating. The exterior was redesigned with a sleeker, modern look and the interior received significant upgrades, emphasising digitalisation and luxury.
The W167 offers engine options, including inline-four, V6 and V8. The GLE 450 4MATIC, with a mild-hybrid 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six, introduced the EQ Boost system, which enhances efficiency and acceleration. The high-performance GLE 63 and GLE 63 S AMG models come with a twin-turbo V8, producing impressive power. This generation of the popular German car brand represents Mercedes-Benz’s push towards a more sustainable future.
Inside, the W167 features the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, with a modern car instrument cluster, voice control and touchscreen functionality. This system is designed to provide a seamless, personalised driving experience. Advanced safety features include active distance, lane change and brake assist. The current GLE showcases Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to luxury and technological innovation. If you want to add it to your selection, a wide range of used Mercedes-Benz GLE models are available here.
Nomenclature Update From M-Class to GLE
The renaming of the M-Class to the GLE in 2015 was partially motivated by branding clarity but also to avoid confusion with BMW’s iconic M performance division. BMW’s high-performance models, like the BMW M3 and M5, had long used the M designation, which is globally associated with BMW’s sporty and powerful models.
To achieve this clarity, each letter in GLE was selected with a purpose: the G stands for Gelandewagen, the German word for ‘off-road vehicle,’ which pays tribute to the original G-Class. The L is a linking letter used across several other models, maintaining uniformity in the lineup. Finally, the E places the GLE alongside the E-Class sedan, marking it as the SUV equivalent of that luxury class. To explore further, read the history of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
FAQs
What are the main differences between the GLE and the GLE Coupe?
The GLE Coupe has a more sloped, sporty design than the standard GLE. The Coupe prioritises style and sportiness, while the standard GLE focuses more on space and practicality.
Does the Mercedes-Benz GLE History offer a hybrid option?
Yes, Mercedes-Benz offers a plug-in hybrid version of the GLE. The GLE 500e, introduced in the fourth generation, was one of the first hybrid models.
Which Mercedes Benz GLE generations introduced the MBUX system?
The MBUX Hyperscreen (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system was introduced in the fifth generation in 2019. It includes dual displays, voice control and touchscreen capability.
What are the unique features Mercedes has recently introduced?
Mercedes Benz GLE models by years has recently introduced several innovative features, some of which include:
- Mercedes-Benz pre-entry climate control
- Mercedes downhill speed regulation
- Mercedes-Benz energising comfort control
The Mercedes-Benz GLE history has evolved from its original form as the M-Class to become one of the leading luxury SUVs in the world. Today, the GLE combines luxury, power and technology, making it a standout choice in the SUV market. As Mercedes-Benz continues to innovate, the GLE will likely remain a favourite among luxury SUV enthusiasts.
Apart from Mercedes-Benz, if you’re considering buying a new car in the UAE, explore the listings on dubizzle. In addition to purchasing a car, you can rent a car in the UAE through the platform.
Stay tuned to the dubizzle auto blogs to know the history of your favourite car.
Blog Images Credit: Mercedes Benz
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