The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class ranks 11 out of 22 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE is a luxury midsize SUV that offers room for five in a lavish, safe cabin. However, in this very competitive category, the GLE doesn't present the most well-rounded package. Some rivals give you a better value.
Pros Attractive engine lineup Premium cabin Large cargo hold in non-Coupe GLE Outstanding safety scores and features
Cons Clunky engine stop-start system Poor visibility and small cargo space in Coupe
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class pared down its powertrains to gas only or a plug-in hybrid, although it still has plenty of stops in between for luxury buyers. Where the parking lot ends and the drive-thru begins, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is there to pick up dry cleaning, kids from school, and do it all over again tomorrow.
Pros Plenty of base features that you'd expect on a luxury car "Coupe" look for daring, non-conformists (with money) Wide range of powertrains Quiet, comfortable ride
Cons Expensive performance versions Relatively thirsty compared to others Pricey advanced safety features Coupe look can cost dearly
What are you looking for from a luxury SUV? If it's comfort, ample cargo space and many available features, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class could be for you. A wide range of available engines furthers its appeal.For 2017, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has minor revisions to its standard feature content but is otherwise unchanged. A new diesel engine option could debut later in the model year.
Pros Several engine choices Quiet, upscale and well-built interior with a roomy backseat Long list of standard safety and technology features.
Cons Base V6's acceleration is merely adequate Uninspiring handling when going around turns Ride quality with the standard suspension isn't as comfortable as we expect.
The 2017 BMW X6 M is about two things: style and performance. It has an abundance of both, but don't expect to get practicality, too. The 2017 BMW X6 M returns with an updated iDrive system that includes touchscreen functionality. The Executive option package also now includes a Wi-Fi hot spot and wireless charging for compatible cellphones.
Pros Stellar acceleration from turbocharged V8 Exceptional handling and stability for a heavy SUV Strong braking performance Wonderfully contoured seats hold you in place during hard cornering.
Cons Firm ride even with suspension in its softest setting Small cargo area Poor rearward visibility Limited rear headroom Sloping rear roofline makes for challenging entry and exit.
Who could have imagined marrying the tall ride height and all-wheel-drive ability of an SUV with the fastback styling of a sleek coupe would produce a desirable vehicle, but that’s exactly what BMW has done with the 2017 X6 SUV. Once an army of one, the X6 has been cloned by such notables as the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe. Frankly we’re somewhat puzzled by the X6’s appeal. It isn’t a very off-road-capable vehicle and comes up short in areas designated for cargo and passengers. The 2017 BMW X6’s size precludes it from being as sporty as an Infiniti QX30 or Lexus NF, and yet despite these many drawbacks, the X6 is remarkably fun to drive and seems to have gained a loyal following.
Pros If you’re looking for a luxury SUV with unique looks, good handling and a lengthy options list, the 2017 BMW X6 SUV might appeal to you. It doesn’t come cheap, but then again what BMW does?
Cons If you need any part of the “utility” in Sport-Utility Vehicle, the 2017 BMW X6’s tiny cargo area, sharply slanted rear hatch and small rear seat probably won’t impress you. An X5 gives you similar performance as the X6 within a far more usable package.
The biggest demerit to the X6 M comes in its ride quality, which ranges from firm to unacceptably, jarringly firm, depending on how its air suspension is adjusted. On roads that are less than perfect, the head toss gets to be enough that wearing a helmet as protection against the suede headliner seems like a not-terrible idea. And then you’d be ready for the track, which is where the X6 M best acquits itself. Not that we imagine actually spotting any at track days. With a $103,050 base price, the X6 M’s window sticker is as extravagant as its test sheet. Save the snarky jokes about this being a “German Aztek”—they weren’t all that funny when the first X6 showed up nearly a decade ago. And today, when the automotive world has gone all-in on both horsepower and crossovers, what can we expect but things like the X6 M? This sort of automotive indulgence has never made much sense, but that’s exactly the point.
