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.
Perhaps one of the most obscure debuts of the Paris Motor Show is the 2017 Ssangyong Rexton, a midsize SUV from a small Korean manufacturer. The vehicle it replaces was a previous generation of the Mercedes-Benz ML, with which Ssangyong had a licensing relationship to build that and an E-Class sedan primarily for consumption on the Korean domestic market.if Ssangyong is looking to grow, the U.S. market is a likely candidate and what better way to enter than through the hot SUV segment. Offered in 2- and 3-row trim levels, the Rexton will offer seating for up to 7 passengers. While many of the vehicles in its class are relying on unit body construction, the Rexton remains on a more truck-based body-on-frame approach. While it’s expected to be offered mainly with a 2.2-liter diesel engine making 179 horsepower and mated to a 7-speed transmission, it’s also expected to have a newer 2.0-liter direct injection turbocharged gas engine. A new gasoline engine mated to an 8-speed automatic is expected after the vehicle is launched.
The Rexton is a well-priced SUV that has a lot of boot space for the money and can carry seven people. Reviews are fairly poor though since it’s not good to drive, noisy and has a dull image. It is one of the cheapest ways to move large loads and more people than usual however, so if you’re in that market then it’s worth a look.
Pros Good off-road Practical Long warranty
Cons Poor ride Noisy Outdated
The Rexton’s four-wheel drive system spends most of its life driving the rear wheels only, diverting power to the front when conditions get more slippery. In most of the cars sold in the UK it will be controlled through a Mercedes-sourced seven-speed automatic transmission - but a six-speed manual is likely to be offered on entry-level editions. The dashboard has a clean look - again, with some cues from the Tivoli - but cross-stitched material panels and Nappa leather add a touch of luxury. The equipment on offer will include dual-zone climate control, a powered rear tailgate that opens automatically when the keyholder has been standing behind it for three seconds, and a new level of safety kit for SsangYong, including nine airbags and rear cross-traffic alert.
