2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

With the all-new 2022 Mercedes GLE, drivers who are searching for a premium SUV with luxurious comfort and versatile performance will be satisfied. Boasting an impressive towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and offroading capabilities when properly equipped - no adventure is out of reach! Relaxation also takes precedence in this midsize model's design making it perfect for that next road trip or weekend getaway.

When it comes to technology, the new GLE stands among the segment leaders. Its MBUX infotainment system is considered to be one of the automotive industry’s most advanced. Cutting-edge safety innovations make this vehicle a confidence-inspiring family hauler.

Mercedes offers the GLE in four primary trim levels. Each one offers a different degree of performance. Let’s find out what separates one trim level from the next.

Compare the  350 vs 450 4MATIC Trims. What is the difference?

Most buyers are likely to choose the GLE 350. Unsurprisingly, this entry-level trim has the lineup’s lowest sticker price. Nevertheless, it’s still extremely luxurious.

Powering the GLE 350 is the automaker’s popular 2.0-liter, turbo four-cylinder engine. It puts out an estimated 255 horsepower. A nine-speed automatic transmission makes sure the available muscle is effectively sent to the wheels. Although there are more powerful trims in the lineup, the GLE 350 is responsive enough for most drivers. During road tests, it clocked a decent 0-60 mph time of 7.1 seconds.

Rear-wheel drive is the SUV’s standard setup. However, Mercedes offers its trademark 4MATIC AWD system as an option. Drivers will appreciate the all-weather grip when encountering slippery conditions. In terms of fuel economy, owners can anticipate getting a government-estimated 19 mpg town/27 mpg freeway on premium gasoline. By shutting down the engine at traffic stops, the SUV’s standard ECO Start-Stop system helps conserve fuel in the city.

Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 owners can enjoy a sleek, classy exterior accented by the bold emblem grille, modern LED headlights and tail lamps. The power-folding side mirrors come in handy when parking while 19 inch alloy wheels add an extra touch of style. With multiple paint colors available to choose from there are plenty of options for finding your perfect fit!

In its standard form, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350 comfortably accommodates up to five people. However, an optional third-row seat allows two additional people to climb aboard. Because the third-row seat is short on legroom, it’s more appropriate for children.

The inside of the GLC 350 has a premium character. MB-Tex upholstery covers the seats. When cruising around on a gorgeous day, drivers can open the SUV’s power tilt/sliding sunroof. Meanwhile, heated front seats help passengers to stay warm over the winter. To make loading travel bags and other cargo easier, Mercedes equips the vehicle with a hand-free tailgate. Other standard conveniences include dual-zone automatic climate control, a power tilt/telescoping steering column, and a retractable luggage cover.

Drivers who crave modern technology will cherish the GLC 350’s highly-rated MBUX infotainment system. Its 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen sits atop the dash for easier viewing. Drivers can operate the interface through either a console-mounted touchpad or the steering-wheel touch controls. Voice control with natural language understanding makes this system more fulfilling to use.

Stay connected seamlessly in your new car with an array of tech features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for easy smartphone pairing, plus wireless charging to keep devices powered. Take advantage of complimentary navigation updates throughout the first year, as well as hands-free Bluetooth functionality and five USB ports—including one convenient USB-C adapter cable!

The gauge cluster goes beyond traditional design, providing a luxurious 12.3-inch screen that can be customized to meet individual preferences and tastes. High Definition Radio and Satellite Radio offer endless entertainment possibilities while driving; the SUV's eight speaker audio system provides excellent sound quality even in its basic form!

Many of today’s most desirable safety technologies come standard on the GLC 300. Designed to sense a potential forward collision, Active Brake Assist can automatically stop the SUV during emergencies. If another vehicle is approaching in the next lane, Blind Spot Assist will illuminate a red warning icon on the side mirror. For 2022, the GLC 350’s previously optional automatic high beams now come standard. Other beneficial safety innovations include a driver drowsiness monitor, a rearview camera, and adaptive braking technology.

Active Park Assist is yet another standard feature. It makes commuting less hectic by steering the SUV into suitable parking spaces. It works for both perpendicular and parallel parking.

While the GLC is luxurious right out of the box, buyers have access to a lengthy list of options. The AMG Line Exterior package is a perfect match for drivers seeking a more muscular look. It adds quite a few aggressive touches, including large mesh intakes and a unique diamond-block grille. A sportier set of 20-inch alloy wheels bring a more athletic stance. While the Night Package is similar, it adds black accents.

Buyers who also want the interior to have a sportier feel should consider the AMG Line Interior package. Sport seats and a performance steering wheel give the cockpit an extra degree of excitement. Stainless steel pedals are included as well.

Some people will want the Premium package. It swaps out the standard stereo unit for a 13-speaker Burmester premium audio system. Twin FrontBass subwoofers help promote a powerful sound. A surround-view camera also comes in the Premium package. Drivers will have better visibility when navigating crowded parking areas.

Designed to further help drivers to avoid an accident, the Driver Assistant package is worth the extra money. It brings an intelligent cruise control system with Route-based Speed Adaption. Even when approaching curves and highway interchanges, this system can adjust your speed accordingly. On the other hand, Evasive Steering System helps drivers to steer around unexpected pedestrians crossing the street. Other Driver Assistance package features consist of Active Blind Spot Assist, Speed Limit Assist, and Active Lane Change Assist.

Folks who desire maximum comfort on long drives may want the multi-contour front seats, which are offered as a stand-alone option. Eight massage programs are built into these luxurious seats. Other options available for the GLC 300 include a head-up display, front-seat cooling functions, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof.

Drivers who desire an even punchier performance may be interested in the GLE 450 4MATIC trim. Its turbo inline-6 engine cranks out 362 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard on this more powerful trim. The extra muscle under the hood results in a swifter 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds. Thanks to a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, fuel economy also slightly increases to 21 mpg town/26 mpg freeway.

Certain options are exclusively offered on the GLE 450 4MATIC. Available soft-close doors give the vehicle an elegant touch. Buyers can also get the GLE 450 4MATIC with an air suspension. It allows drivers to tailor the vehicle’s handling and ride quality by selecting from four settings. While the Sport mode stiffens the suspension for tighter handling, activating the Comfort mode allows passengers to experience a softer ride.

Another one of the GLE 450 4MATIC’s options is the AMG Sport exhaust system. It brings a throatier sound. Larger 22-inch alloy wheels are available for drivers who desire a more aggressive stance.

Compare the 450 vs 580 Trim Levels. What is the difference?

Powering the GLE 580 4MATIC is an even stronger twin-turbo V8 engine. Mercedes tunes it to press out a beefy 483 horsepower. During performance testing, this V8-powered model recorded a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds. Expect a fuel economy rating of around 17 mpg town/22 mpg freeway. As expected, Mercedes makes its 4MATIC AWD system a standard convenience.

While the GLE 580 4MATIC offers many of the same options as the less powerful trims, a few extra niceties do come standard. Genuine leather upholstery makes the cabin feel just a bit more deluxe. Meanwhile, a surround-view camera system replaces the SUV’s traditional backup camera.

Compare the GLE 580  vs AMG 53 Trims. What is the difference?

Atop the performance ladder sits the GLC AMG 53 4MATIC, which is engineered by Mercedes-Benz’s AMG division. No other trim offers a sportier driving experience. Its turbo inline-6 engine produces 429 horsepower. Although the V8-powered GLC 580 4MATIC may pack a tad more muscle, a lighter curb weight enables the GLC 53 4MATIC to accelerate nearly just as quickly. Fuel economy stands at 18 mpg town/22 mpg highway.

Mercedes also equips the high-performance AMG 53 4MATIC trim with a standard air suspension. Handling will be especially agile. This is the best trim for attacking twisty roads. AMG performance brakes and an AMG performance exhaust are optional.

Red interior stitching helps the SUV’s cabin to stand out. An optional AMG steering wheel accentuates the cabin’s race-inspired design. A sportier AMG head-up display is offered as well.

Music fans should sample the optional Burmester 3-D surround-sound audio system. It places 26 high-end speakers throughout the cabin. Meanwhile, an available fragrance diffuser allows drivers to choose their favorite scent.

Final Thoughts

Before picking a 2022 Mercedes GLE trim, buyers should first decide how much money they’re willing to spend. Most people will be perfectly satisfied with the entry-level GLC 350. Even it has a luxury-appointed interior. Heated front seats, an excellent MBUX infotainment system, and a power sunroof all come standard. Potentially life-saving safety features are also found on the GLC 300. While this trim is not quite as quick as the other models, it’s still capable of towing up to 7,700 pounds.

The GLE 350 offers a wide range of options, but cold-weather regions may necessitate the automaker's 4MATIC AWD system. For an added touch of sportiness and style, consider upgrading to the AMG Line Exterior package. The interior features are also noteworthy with Burmester premium sound as well as optional massaging seats—a luxurious comfort that many can live without.

The GLE 450 4MATIC brings a more stimulating performance. It offers snappy acceleration without giving up any fuel economy. This can be contributed to the SUV’s mild-hybrid system. While the optional air suspension increases the GLC 450 4MATIC’s MSRP, drivers will appreciate its adjustability.

Buyers should think twice before choosing the GLE 580 4MATIC. While this trim is very powerful, it costs nearly $17,000 more than the GLE 450 4MATIC. Gas mileage also takes a noticeable decline.

For those seeking a thrilling driving experience, the GLC AMG 53 trim is an attractive option. Boasting powerful performance despite being more affordable than its V8-powered 580 4MATIC counterpart, this sleek and nimble vehicle provides remarkable handling for any twisty route. Additionally, with its eye-catching design to make sure you're always turning heads wherever you go.

Previous Year Trim Configurations:

• 2021 Mercedes Benz GLE Class Trime Levels