The 2017 Mercedes GLE lasts around 200,000 miles with some A/C system and headlight issues reported. At $35,156 to $66,800, it’s expensive, but still worth the money if you’re looking for a very luxurious SUV.
Is the 2017 Mercedes GLE a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2017 is a good year for the Mercedes GLE since it offers good performance paired with luxury. Owner reviews praise the strong engines, upscale cabin, along with the smooth suspension.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 9/10 – Interior materials are very luxurious for an SUV, the seats are comfortable on long trips, cargo space is also decent.
- Reliability 7/10 – Maintenance and repair costs are very expensive on the Mercedes GLE, lowering its overall reliability for most buyers. In general models from 2017–2022 are all similar regarding dependability.
- Performance 9/10 – The base GLE models are reasonably quick, while the AMG models are some of the fastest midsize SUVs on the market.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2017 Mercedes GLE is very safe, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera along with brake assist. Optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control along with steering assist.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay, at up to 20 MPG, giving 492 from the 24.6 gallon tank. Gas costs are $82 higher than average at $332 per month.
- Value 7/10 – The 2017 Mercedes GLE is cheaper than some other luxury SUVs, although rapid depreciation lowers the overall value score.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Mercedes GLE?
- Consumer Reports says the 2017 Mercedes GLE offers an extremely nice interior for a midsize SUV with high owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the GLE at 4.4/5, enjoying the strong engine choices, but doesn’t like the loose steering.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Mercedes GLE a 4.5/5, praising the excellent sophistication and luxury, but owners don’t like the lack of a third row.
What Common Problems Does the 2017 Mercedes GLE Have?
Common problems found on the 2017 Mercedes GLE include a moldy smell from the A/C system, headlights wearing out quickly, along with some premature brake wear. Overall, these problems are minor compared to some other luxury SUVs on the market, although parts costs are still expensive.
A moldy smell from the A/C system is the most widespread complaint on the 2017 Mercedes GLE, showing up at around 2,000 miles. Usually, the problem is caused by a clogged A/C condensation drain line which allows mold to develop in the system. Clearing out the line costs around $100, depending on local labor rates, and usually fixes the problem.
Headlights wearing out quickly have also been reported by some 2017 GLE owners at around 20,000 miles. The headlight bulbs simply wear out quickly. There are some longer-lasting bulbs available on the market which cost around $125 per bulb to replace, but usually last longer than 20,000 miles.
Premature brake wear is another problem found on some 2017 Mercedes GLE models at around 10,000 miles. If you use your GLE to tow or haul a lot of weight then the brakes tend to wear out faster. Replacing the front brake pads costs around $350, while the rears are roughly $200.
There are 11 recalls on the 2017 Mercedes Benz GLE, which is worse than many other luxury midsize SUVs. The most serious recall can cause the engine to stall, which leads to an increased risk of damage. Mercedes will replace the fuel pump control unit on affected models for free. Other recalls cover the roof panels, door locks, ECU software, along with insulation issues for the airbags.
How Long Will the 2017 Mercedes GLE Last?
A well-maintained 2017 Mercedes GLE can last around 200,000 miles, which is shorter than other midsize luxury SUVs like the Lexus GX. Regular annual maintenance costs are higher than average, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $1,049 per year.
As a used 2017 Mercedes GLE reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the thermostat for $500, HVAC air door costing 4550, along with the timing chain tensioner which costs roughly $1,500.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is very good, offering a standard 8-inch central display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Optional upgrades include a more powerful stereo system.
Standard safety technology is descent with:
- Rearview camera
- Forward collision warning
- Brake assist
- Driver drowsiness monitor
Optional advanced driver assistance features include:
- Blind spot monitoring
- Lane keep assist
- Adaptive pivoting headlights
- 360-degree view camera
- Parallel parking assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Steering assist
- Speed limit information
- Rear collision warning
Is the 2017 Mercedes GLE a Good Value?
Yes, the 2017 Mercedes GLE is a good value if you’re looking for a midsize luxury SUV with plenty of high-end finishes. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $35,156 to $66,800, making it more than a Lincoln MKX or Acura MDX. When new, the price range was $52,000 to $110,650. Depreciation is worse than other SUVs, losing about 15% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Mercedes GLE?
There are six main models of the 2017 Mercedes GLE offered, from the entry-level GLE 350 all the way up to the strong AMG GLE 63 S. It comes standard with rear-wheel drive while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
GLE 350 is the entry-level model with:
- Comes standard with 19-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, and taillights
- Features front and rear fog lights, automatic wipers, sunroof, and roof rack
- Includes rear privacy glass, power-folding/auto-dimming mirrors, and power liftgate
- Interior features dual-zone automatic climate control and wood trim
- Has heated/power front seats, driver memory functions, and MB-Tex premium vinyl upholstery
- Equipped with Mercedes’ COMAND electronics interface, 8-inch display, backup camera, and Bluetooth phone/audio connectivity
- 8-speaker audio system with HD radio, CD player, and USB port
- Numerous standard safety features
- Optional Premium 1 package includes keyless ignition/entry, navigation system, and smartphone integration
- Leather upholstery is optional
- Premium 2 and 3 packages offer additional features, including adaptive cruise control and automated parking systems.
GLE 400 is a step up, adding:
- Includes all features from Premium 1 and Exterior Sport packages
- Equipped with a turbocharged engine, multicolor ambient interior lighting, and leather upholstery
- An Off-Road package is available, including low-range gearing, Dynamic Select calibration, and front underbody skid plate
GLE 550e plug-in hybrid is the most efficient model which has:
- Includes all the Premium 1 features
- Comes with leather and unique cabin treatments
AMG GLE 43 offers sportier driving with:
- Features a more powerful engine and AMG-exclusive 20-inch wheels
- AMG-tuned adaptive air suspension and a sport exhaust
- Includes exterior styling upgrades, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and simulated leather upholstery
- Comes with the contents of the Premium 1 package
AMG GLE 63 is a stronger model which has:
- Includes GLE 43’s features, plus the Premium 2 and Parking Assist packages
- Features a turbocharged V8 engine, larger brakes, and active stabilizer bars
- Comes with front and rear parking sensors, special leather upholstery, and heated/ventilated seats
AMG GLE 63 S is the flagship model which comes with:
- Increases horsepower of the turbocharged V8
- Features 21-inch wheels, a carbon-fiber engine cover, a sport steering wheel
- Comes with suede headliner and unique upholstery
General Standalone Options:
- Panoramic sunroof, trailer hitch, adaptive air, and off-road suspensions
- Tri-zone climate control, multi-contour front seats with massage, ventilated front seats
- Heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a rear-seat entertainment system
- 13-speaker Harman Kardon or a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system
What Engines Come In the Mercedes GLE?
- The base model, GLE 350, has a 5-liter V6 engine that produces 302 horsepower at up to 20 MPG. It is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. Its 0-60 mph time is around 7.5 seconds.
- The GLE 400 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that delivers 329 horsepower while getting 20 MPG as well. It comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It reaches 0-60 mph in around 6.0 seconds.
- The GLE 550e plug-in hybrid uses a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 paired with an electric motor for a total system output of 436 horsepower. It uses a seven-speed automatic transmission and achieves a combined fuel economy of around 43 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent when considering both gas and electric power). Its 0-60 mph time is roughly 5.3 seconds.
- The high-performance AMG GLE 43 has a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that generates 362 horsepower at up to 19 MPG. It’s paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in about 5.6 seconds.
- The AMG GLE 63 is equipped with a twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V8 engine that cranks out 550 horsepower at 15 MPG. It uses a seven-speed automatic transmission, and goes from 0-60 mph in just 4.2 seconds.
- The top-of-the-line AMG GLE 63 S model also uses a twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V8, but it’s tuned to put out 577 horsepower at 15 MPG. This engine is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. Its 0-60 mph time is a blisteringly fast 4.1 seconds.
What Colors Does the Mercedes GLE Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Mercedes GLE?
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE is known for its remarkable comfort, offering a refined driving experience and a well-crafted interior. The seats are designed with high-grade materials and come with multiple adjustments, which, along with available heating, cooling, and memory features, provide personalized comfort for both the driver and passengers. The rear seats provide ample legroom and headroom, comfortably accommodating adults on long drives.
The vehicle’s ride quality stands out, too, thanks to its adaptive suspension system that smoothly absorbs road imperfections, providing a plush and serene ride. Even on rougher roads or at higher speeds, the GLE maintains its composure, providing passengers feel minimal bumps and vibrations.
How Much Storage Space Does the Mercedes GLE Have?
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE offers a generous amount of storage space. With all seats in place, the GLE provides about 38.2 cubic feet of cargo space. If you need more room, folding down the rear seats expands the cargo area to a sizable 80.3 cubic feet.
To give you an idea of what can fit in that space, 38.2 cubic feet can comfortably hold several large suitcases, making it great for airport runs or a weekend trip. You could also fit a full-sized baby stroller and still have space left for grocery bags or other items. With the rear seats folded down, the 80.3 cubic feet is more than ample to handle larger items. You could fit an entire bicycle, a small piece of furniture such as a loveseat or a desk, or even larger musical instruments like a cello. This makes the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE a versatile choice for those requiring plenty of cargo room for various lifestyle needs.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The first generation of the Mercedes GLE was introduced for the 2016 model year.
2016: First model year for the GLE which replaces the M-Class SUV with revised styling, more standard equipment, along with new engine choices.
2017: Minor revisions to standard equipment, diesel model removed from the lineup, more powerful AMG GLE 43 added.
2018: Upgraded engine in the AMG GLE 43 with 23 more horsepower.
2019: GLE 350, renamed to GLE 400, now has a turbocharged V6, and all-wheel drive is standard.
2020: Fully redesigned for the second generation with new styling, engines, and technology features.
2021: AMG GLE 53 and GLE 63 S introduced with more powerful engines and improved handling.
How Does the Mercedes GLE Compare to the Competition?
The 2017 Mercedes GLE is a great choice if you’re in the market for a midsize luxury SUV, although it is expensive to keep running as it ages, which means you’re sacrificing some reliability for upscale materials.
The BMW X5 is another luxury SUV which costs about $2,500 more. Where the BMW X5 stands out is with a sportier driving experience, while the Mercedes GLE offers a higher quality interior. We recommend the BMW X5, although both are similar, for the 2017 model year.
The Audi Q7 is a larger luxury SUV which is available in the same price range. Passenger room is better in the Audi Q7, while the Mercedes GLE offers a more upscale cabin for the money. We recommend the Mercedes GLE, although it’s worth testing out both to see which one you prefer.
