2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450

The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 itself is a trim of the Mercedes GLE-Class lineup. This trim is positioned just below the topmost trim, namely Mercedes-Benz GLE 580. This SUV enjoys all the features that are available in the GLE lineup except for some advanced features which are available through packages. Some of its standard features include heated power front seats with 3-way driver memory function, leatherette seats, power and heated side mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, MBUX infotainment system with MB Navigation, etc.

Which Trim Should You Buy?

The standalone GLE 450 trim is part of Mercedes-Benz's GLE-Class lineup. Apart from the impressive standard list of comfort and convenience features, there are packages that can be purchased to add some additional features to this SUV. With the Driver Assistance Pack, which costs around $1,950, this SUV will have more advanced safety features. Moreover, you have the choice of third-row seating depending on your needs. In addition, you can add a 4MATIC Air Ride Suspension system for $1,710, which adjusts your suspension electronically according to the driving conditions for improved comfort and stability.

Release Date

While there is no information as such from the brand itself, but we can expect the SUV to go on sale in the early months of 2022.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 has arguably the best fuel economy in its segment. One gallon of gas will get you 21 miles around the city. On highways, you can travel up to 26 miles on a gallon of gas. Furthermore, it achieves the highest fuel economy in its segment when driven in both conditions, which is 23 miles per gallon. Also, the fuel tank of the GLE 450 is massively large at 22.5 gallons. Combining its amazing MPG figures with a large gas tank, it has the highest fuel range of all SUVs in its segment, meaning you won't need to visit the gas station as frequently as other SUVs.

*Some data were taken from the 2021 MY for reference

When it comes to overall fuel economy, the Mercedes GLE 450 is clearly the winner. On the highways, the Jaguar F-Pace goes 1 mile further than the GLE. Here, the GLE 450 and Q7 both have the largest fuel tanks measuring 22.5 gallons. The GLE 450 SUV here has the highest fuel range in its class, thanks to its impressive MPG figures and larger fuel tank. The 2021 Audi Q7 drinks the most fuel in the competition at 20 mpg combined.

The interior of the GLE lineup, most notably the GLE 450, has earned high praises from multiple critics, thanks to its practical yet luxurious layout. Mercedes has kept the cabin's features and space in balance so that its riders can experience a ride like no other. Also for this year, the automaker will introduce a new steering wheel design based on the S-Class sedan. It's also likely that the MBUX infotainment system will be integrated this year, making things easier for drivers. Other than that, all interior features will be taken directly from the 2021 GLE 450.

The front row will be spacious, offering enough legroom and headroom. This SUV will include 10-way heated seats with 3-way memory functions for the driver. There will be 40/20/40 split-bench rear seats, and the space in that area is ample and the largest in its segment. All seats, along with the door and center armrests, will be covered with premium leather. Moreover, the steering wheel will have premium Nappa leather for maximum comfort. As is the case with all other vehicles from Mercedes-Benz, this vehicle will have an ergonomic layout and controls for the driver.

*Some data were taken from the 2021 MY for reference

The GLE 450 has decent space in the front row that is sufficient to accommodate the driver and co-passenger. However, the Audi Q7 has more headroom and legroom in the front row. But the GLE 450 has the most space in the second row, so its rear passengers are likely to enjoy this SUV's space more. Except for the Audi Q7, all the SUVs have almost the same cargo area, measuring around 33.5 cubic feet, and it is one of the biggest in its class. Due to Audi's seating capacity of 7 in comparison to the seating of 5 offered by the rivals, Audi loses out on the cargo space at the back.

Standard features will include a power sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, and hands-free cargo access. In terms of cargo space, it would have 33.5 cubic feet behind the passenger compartment, which is plenty for 5-7 passengers. In addition, if you want to add third-row seating at the back, you can do it as Mercedes kept it optional, but it isn't worth the money. Some features of this car’s interior are mentioned below:

• Cruise Control 
• 10-Way Driver Seat with heating and memory function
• Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
• Leatherette seats
• Heated Leather Steering Wheel with memory function

What’s there to keep you entertained?

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 is expected to feature the new Mercedes MBUX infotainment system, which will have a more logical and easy-to-use interface. Moreover, new features are expected to be added to the system. A big 12-3-inch touchscreen display, which dominates the front dashboard, will house the new MBUX system.

Additionally, there is a driver information display that is the same size as the normal touchscreen display. It also has other connectivity features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard features include MB Navigation with voice command, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Burmester premium 13 speakers, Five USB-C ports, Wireless charging, etc. Some infotainment features of this car are mentioned below:

• New MBUX Infotainment System (Expected)
• 12.3-inch touchscreen and drivers information display
• Sirius XM Radio
• 13 Burmester premium speakers
• MB Navigation with voice command

The SUV's body has a big, bold, and shiny appearance, which gives it a premium look and makes it stand out on the road. It is immediately apparent that this is not just your regular SUV. Rather, it is more of a luxury model. Furthermore, different spy shots of 2022 MY GLE 450 have revealed redesigned headlamps and redesigned taillamps. The DRLs will now be made eyebrow-thinned. Moreover, it will be fitted with Pirelli P Tires, measuring 20.0-inches instead of the existing ones. 

Other than that, all the other exterior factors will remain the same. A rear roof spoiler, power and heated side mirrors, and beautiful chrome trimming around the windows are also included. With its overall chrome trimming, shiny body, and large front grille with Mercedes branding, it does have a very attractive look that is sure to appeal to many buyers. The SUV weighs 5,013 lbs, making it the second heaviest option after Audi Q7. Also, it has a ground clearance of 7.1 inches, which is the lowest in the competition.

*Some data were taken from the 2021 MY for reference

The GLE 450 SUV is pretty large and carries a lot of weight. However, the Audi Q7 is the biggest SUV here overall. Furthermore, the Q7 offers the best ground clearance in this segment at 9.4 inches. In this class, all German SUVs have the same length wheelbase and are also the longest. When comparing the curb weight, the Jaguar F-Pace S is the lightest option at 4,307 lbs. Major exterior features include:

• Rear Roof Spoiler
• Power and Heated Side Mirrors
• LED Headlamps, Taillamps, and DRLs
• Hands-free cargo access
• 20” Pirelli P Tires (Expected)

Mercedes, together with its German rivals, are well-known for their safety advancements, especially their pioneering of futuristic safety technology that only gets better with time. Although the 2022 model year hasn't been launched yet, we will here examine the safety ratings of its predecessor to estimate the safety quotient for the new model year. NHTSA awarded 2021 MY GLE 450 a perfect 5-star rating due to its top-notch build quality. Additionally, the NHTSA gave it a 4-star rating in the rollover test, which is excellent because only the safest vehicles receive this rating. On the other hand, the IIHS awarded it with a Top Safety Pick+ award along with an overall Good rating. Providing both basic and advanced safety features, it is again laid out with a wide selection of safety features. Few standout safety features are mentioned below:

• Collision Mitigation-Front
• Active Emergency Stop Assist
• Active Stop & Go Assist
• PRE-SAFE PLUS Rear Collision Protection
• Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC
• Evasive Steering Assist
• Active Brake Assist w/Cross-Traffic Function
• Active Blind Spot Assist
• Active Lane Keeping Assist
• Adaptive Highbeam Assist
• Active Lane Change Assist
• Active Blind Spot Monitor
• Traffic Sign Assist

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 vs 2021 BMW X5 sDrive 40i

There is very tough competition between these two SUVs. The SUVs differ in a variety of other ways, but they both have their own advantages. The Merc GLE 450 and the BMW X5 both run on the same powertrain, but the GLE 450 produces more horsepower. On the other hand, the X5’s acceleration is far superior to that of the GLE 450 by a wide margin.

On the other hand, the GLE 450 does a great job of saving gas in both city and highway driving. Despite the similarities in the interior design of both SUVs, the GLE 450's expected integration of the MBUX infotainment system will likely give a tough fight to the X5 in this regard. The choice between these two depends on what you expect from your luxurious SUV.

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 vs 2021 Audi Q7 Premium Plus

In terms of head-to-head comparison, the Mercedes GLE 450 SUV remains far ahead of the Audi Q7. Despite having an Inline-6, the GLE 450 has a greater engine output than the Audi, which has a V6.

Also, the GLE 450 has a better fuel economy while providing a more enjoyable driving experience. In addition, the Audi Q7 lacks practicality a little because its cargo space is insufficient and arguably the smallest in its segment. All in all, we would recommend going with the latest GLE 450 SUV instead of the Q7.

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 vs 2021 Jaguar F-Pace S

In comparison with the Jaguar F-Pace S, the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 2022 will be the better SUV in every category. In terms of spacing and performance, the GLE 450 is superior. The GLE 450 also offers significantly better driving dynamics than the F-Pace.

Although the F-Pace is a strong competitor to the GLE 450 in terms of fuel economy, it is still a little less efficient. Additionally, the GLE 450 has a more premium interior and infotainment system that makes it stand out. So without a doubt, the 2022 Merc GLE 450 makes for a better pick between the two.

There is no doubt that the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 will be one of the most practical and powerful luxury SUVs of 2022. Mercedes also experimented a lot with its GLE lineup and introduced agility and aerodynamics to SUVs, which proved very successful. In addition to its excellent sprinting capabilities, the 2022 GLE 450 will possess a more aggressive and stylish design, which can be seen from the spy shots. Although the BMW X5 is also worth considering, we recommend the GLE 450 if you are in the market for a luxury SUV in this class.