2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV

In its base format, a Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 starts off at a base MSRP of $54,250, excluding tax, registration, licensing, dealer mark-ups, and destination charge. Adding 4Matic AWD to the mix increases the tag to $56,750, while the mid-spec GLE 450 starts at $61,750. The GLE 580 commands a large step up with a base MSRP of $77,600.However, that base price is seldom the price paid, and if you're too heavy-handed when it comes to ticking the extensive options list, prices could soar well into the six-figure bracket.

With the 2020 GLE, Mercedes has managed to change the game on comfort in the midsize SUV segment. Our tester was equipped with the $8,100 E-Active Body Control Package, which allows the driver to control the Airmatic suspension at will. Flipping the GLE into off-road mode raises the suspension to its highest setting and enables a feature called Free Driving Assistant. This system can literally bounce the vehicle up and down in the event it gets stuck in snow, sand, or mud. It can also be used to entertain the kids and participants at car shows.

When the GLE's suspension isn't bouncing you out of a predicament, it is graciously gliding over all imperfections on the road. Thanks to an ability to read the road ahead using cameras and sensors, speed humps are essentially erased by this suspension. We've never driven an SUV, aside from maybe the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, that rides over bumps more smoothly. When the roads get twisty, the GLE also has a 'curve mode' that nearly eliminates body lean, which is impressive on such a large SUV.

Mercedes has also included a Sport Mode, though it is not the GLE's main purpose. Steering is fairly light and not as precise as some competitors, so we don't consider the GLE as the king of the pack for sporty driving dynamics. We also felt the need to lean heavily on the brakes when bringing the GLE to stop, which is likely due to its nearly 5,000-pound curb weight.

It would be underselling the 2020 GLE if we didn't say it was the best all-around package in the mid-size luxury SUV segment. With handsome looks, a stunning interior, advanced technology, off-road credibility, smooth engine, and flawless ride, there's almost nothing not to like about the GLE. The only SUV we've ever tested that can match the GLE on comfort is the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, which is more than four times more expensive.

There are sportier SUVs in the segment, like the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne, but if you already have a sports car in the garage, why do you need your SUV to be sporty? We could complain that the GLE is far from the prettiest model in the Mercedes lineup and the third-row space is pitiful but we think it best to consider the GLE as a five-seater and wait for the GLE 63 AMG to dial up the flare.

If the GLE's endless array of options seems too confusing, let us help you out by telling you exactly how we'd spec it. Go for the GLE 450 with the inline-six engine for $61,150 because the smooth power is too irresistible. Add the AMG Line exterior for $3,250, panoramic roof for $1,000, Emerald Green paint for $720, leather interior for $1,620, acoustic comfort package for $1,100, premium package for $1,850, MBUX technology package for $1,600, massaging and ventilated front seats for $1,500, the E-Active body control, and a few various options to bring the total price to $88,960.

尽管克林顿是多么奇妙,很多SUV, and for many buyers, the smaller GLC may be enough. Smaller in size, the GLC only seats five, as opposed to the optional seven in the GLE, but five adults will still be relatively comfortable. Based on an older generation of vehicle architecture, it still boasts a refined interior with high levels of available technology that place it firmly in the luxury category, but the GLE is classier, roomier, and offers technology that elevates the industry as a whole, not just the mid-size SUV segment. The MBUX infotainment system is more intuitive and advanced than the GLC's COMAND system, however, the older setup still compares favorably to the systems found in rivals. The GLE rides better too, especially when equipped with the E-Active Body Control, and the engines are more refined and powerful than those of the GLC. But the GLC is much cheaper - the concession made as you're getting much less SUV for your money. The GLE is better than the GLC every metric, but if you're only just stretching your budget for a base GLE 350, a well-specced GLC may suit your needs a little better.

Both the X5 and the GLE have been newly developed for the current model year, taking great leaps beyond what previous generations offered. Both offer comfortable, roomy seating for five, but the GLE offers available seating for seven - even if the third-row is somewhat cramped. Both offer comparable cargo volume and high-quality interiors, and both are extensively equipped with safety and technological conveniences, but the Mercedes feels more luxurious overall, aided by the class-leading ride quality when equipped with the E-Active Body Control. In terms of engines, both offer a couple of good options with similar performance, but the X5's eight-speed automatic is more refined than the GLE's nine-speed. Both the X5 and GLE rank near the top of this segment, and priced similarly they'll be at the top of your shopping list. Either is a good buy, but if comfort is your priority, the Merc just edges the BMW for the top spot.