The latest in our series of car reviews is the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE 300D 4MATIC AMG—the latest in the sleek GLE series. It is spacious and packed to the roof with advanced driving technology.
This latest model’s engine is powerful yet verging on silent. This car is equipped with a 9-speed automatic gearbox and promises a simplified driving experience on open roads and tight urban spaces. One of our favourite features is the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system: voice assistance that allows personalisation on nearly all aspects of the car, from seat heating and radio to ambient lighting and mirrors.
In 2019, significant improvements were seen, especially in the comfort field. Adjustable seating with its heating system creates a comfortable driving experience, especially with all that extra space considered. In this regard, the attention to detail is spectacular. Similarly to the S Class, we have a beautiful wooden finish on the car’s dashboard. Packed with hidden and exciting features, the vehicle’s interior has numerous storage spaces and twin USB ports.
The GLE 300D is the first in its series to offer such an advanced technology. For example, the car’s sat nav system uses augmented reality to draw a real-time path using real traffic organisation. In this regard, Traffic Sign Assist is a fantastic feature that analyzes the road ahead and displays road signs and national speed limits on a sleek LED screen. With its intuitive rear camera, Parking Assist is a golden feature that we love using in those tighter car parks. A choice of driving mode makes this model one of the most customisable, comfortable motoring experiences.
On the road, the GLE 300D is a pleasure. Ample foot and headspace in the front of the vehicle is matched in the back, where adjustable seat buttons can be found on either door. The passengers also have full control over their heating. With this model, Mercedes-Benz has considered everything, from comfort to sheer performance. Drop-down seats make the already substantial boot space even larger. Modern yet robust, The GLE 300D deservedly takes place in the ranks of truly luxurious SUVs.
Exterior Design
The 2019 GLE 300d 4MATIC AMG boasts a bold and dynamic exterior that reflects Mercedes-Benz‘s commitment to elegance and athleticism. The iconic three-pointed star emblem dominates the front fascia, centred within a striking grille with chrome-tipped diamond-block detailing. The angular, LED headlights with signature daytime running lights provide a modern touch, ensuring the GLE 300d stands out day and night.
The sculpted body lines and muscular proportions convey a sense of power and agility. With its sloping roofline and seamlessly integrated roof rails, the aerodynamic silhouette enhances the vehicle’s visual appeal and contributes to its impressive fuel efficiency. The AMG styling package further accentuates the vehicle’s sporty character with unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and exclusive AMG badging.
Interior Comfort and Luxury
Stepping inside the GLE 300d 4MATIC AMG, one is immediately enveloped in a world of luxury and refinement. High-quality materials abound, from the soft-touch dashboard and door panels to the finely crafted leather seats. The cabin is adorned with brushed aluminium and wood trims, creating a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition.
The ergonomically designed seats offer exceptional comfort and support, ideal for long journeys. Both front and rear seats are heated, with the option for ventilation and massaging functions in the front. The spacious interior provides ample legroom and headroom for all passengers, ensuring a comfortable ride regardless of the journey length.
The GLE 300d’s panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the sense of space and openness. Ambient lighting with multiple colour options allows occupants to personalise the interior atmosphere to their preference, further enhancing the luxury experience.
Technology and Infotainment
Mercedes-Benz has equipped the GLE 300d 4MATIC AMG with many advanced technologies to enhance convenience, connectivity, and safety. The centrepiece of the cabin is the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, which features a large, high-resolution touchscreen display. The system is highly intuitive, offering voice control, gesture recognition, and seamless integration with smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The digital instrument cluster provides a wealth of information at a glance, with customisable displays that allow the driver to prioritise the data most relevant to their driving experience. The head-up display projects essential information onto the windshield, enabling the driver to keep their eyes on the road.
The GLE 300d also features a premium Burmester sound system, delivering an immersive audio experience that rivals high-end home setups. Passengers can enjoy crystal-clear sound quality, whether listening to their favourite music, podcasts, or audiobooks.
Performance and Handling
Under the bonnet of the 2019 GLE 300d 4MATIC AMG lies a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine, delivering 245 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. This engine and a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission ensure smooth and responsive performance across various driving conditions.
The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, whether navigating city streets or tackling off-road terrain. The system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear axles, adapting to changing road conditions to optimise handling and control.
The GLE 300d’s AIRMATIC air suspension system perfectly balances comfort and agility. The system automatically adjusts the suspension to suit the driving conditions, providing a cushioned ride over rough surfaces and reducing body roll during cornering. The driver can also manually select different driving modes, such as Comfort, Sport, and Off-road, tailoring the vehicle’s performance to their preferences.
Safety Features
Safety is a paramount consideration for Mercedes-Benz, and the GLE 300d 4MATIC AMG is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect its occupants. The vehicle comes standard with an array of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, ensuring maximum protection during a collision.
Advanced driver assistance systems enhance safety, including Active Brake Assist, which can autonomously apply the brakes if a potential collision is detected. The Attention Assist system monitors drivers’ behaviour and alerts them if signs of drowsiness are detected.
Other notable safety features include Blind Spot Assist, which warns the driver of vehicles in their blind spots, and Lane Keeping Assist, which helps prevent unintentional lane departures. The adaptive cruise control system, Distronic Plus, maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, adjusting the speed automatically to ensure a safe following distance.
Practicality and Versatility
The GLE 300d 4MATIC AMG is luxurious and highly practical, catering to its owners’ diverse needs. The rear seats can be folded flat to create a generous cargo area, easily accommodating more oversized items. The hands-free access system allows the tailgate to be opened with a simple foot movement under the rear bumper, making loading and unloading hassle-free.
For families, the GLE 300d offers the convenience of ISOFIX child seat anchor points, ensuring secure and easy installation of child seats. The vehicle’s large windows and elevated seating position provide excellent visibility for the driver and passengers.
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Considerations
Despite its powerful performance, the GLE 300d 4MATIC AMG is designed with fuel efficiency in mind. The advanced diesel engine, the aerodynamic design, and the lightweight construction result in impressive fuel economy figures. The ECO Start/Stop function further enhances efficiency by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary and restarting it when the accelerator is pressed.
Mercedes-Benz is also committed to reducing the environmental impact of its vehicles. The GLE 300d complies with stringent Euro 6 emissions standards, utilising technologies such as selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and a particulate filter to minimise harmful emissions. This makes the vehicle more environmentally friendly in the luxury SUV segment.
Ownership Experience
Owning a 2019 GLE 300d 4MATIC AMG is more than just possessing a vehicle; it is about joining a legacy of excellence and innovation. Mercedes-Benz offers a comprehensive warranty and service package, providing peace of mind to owners. The brand’s extensive network of dealerships and service centres ensures that maintenance and repairs are convenient and efficient.
The GLE 300d also benefits from Mercedes me connect, a suite of connected services that enhance the ownership experience. Features such as remote start, vehicle tracking, and maintenance reminders can be accessed via a smartphone app, providing owners greater control and convenience.
Conclusion
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE 300d 4MATIC AMG is a remarkable luxury SUV that excels in nearly every aspect. Its striking design, luxurious interior, advanced technology, and impressive performance make it a standout choice. Mercedes-Benz has successfully combined practicality and elegance, creating a vehicle that meets the diverse needs of modern drivers.
Whether navigating urban environments or exploring off-the-beaten paths, the GLE 300d 4MATIC AMG delivers an exhilarating and refined driving experience. It embodies Mercedes-Benz’s essence, offering unparalleled quality and innovation. For those seeking a luxury SUV that stands out, the 2019 GLE 300d 4MATIC AMG is an excellent choice, promising a blend of performance, luxury, and practicality that few can match.