The 2019 Mercedes GLE lasts around 200,000 miles with some battery and fuel pump issues reported. At $39,950 to $92,525, it’s expensive, but worth the money if you’re looking for a powerful and comfortable midsize SUV.
Is the 2019 Mercedes GLE a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2019 is a good year for the Mercedes GLE since it’s an excellent mix of luxury and performance. Owner reviews praise the smooth suspension, stereo system, along with the extremely comfortable seats.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 9/10 – Interior materials are extremely luxurious, the seats are supportive on longer trips, cargo space is also reasonable for its size.
- Reliability 7/10 – The 2019 GLE is very expensive to repair and maintain compared to other SUVs, slightly lowering the overall reliability scores. Models from 2017–2022 are all similar regarding their long-term reliability.
- Performance 9/10 – The entry-level GLE models are reasonably powerful, and the AMG models are among the strongest midsize SUVs in the world.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2019 GLE is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera along with automatic emergency braking. Optional upgrades include lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 20 MPG, giving 492 miles of range out of the 24.6 gallon tank. Gas costs are $70 higher than average, at $284 per month.
- Value 7/10 – The 2019 Mercedes Benz GLE is more than some other luxury SUVs with rapid depreciation rates, lowering the overall value score.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Mercedes GLE?
- Consumer Reports says the 2019 Mercedes GLE is a very refined vehicle with meticulous fit and finish, and high owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the GLE at 4.2/5, enjoying the very quiet interior, but doesn’t like the punishingly firm suspension on the AMG models.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the GLE a 4.5/5, praising the strong engine choices, but owners don’t like the higher purchase price than some other midsize luxury SUVS.
What Common Problems Does the 2019 Mercedes GLE Have?
Common problems found on the 2019 Mercedes Benz GLE include dead batteries, a loss of fuel pressure, along with the stereo system freezing up. Overall, these problems are similar to some other luxury SUVs on the market, although repair costs are more expensive since the parts and labor rates are higher on Mercedes.
Dead batteries are the most widespread complaint on the 2019 Mercedes GLE, showing up within the first 10,000 miles. There are a lot of electrical accessories on the GLE, and some of them drain the battery while the vehicle is off. Diagnosing the source of the parasitic draw costs around $200 to diagnose and fix. If the battery has to be replaced, it’s roughly $500.
A loss of fuel pressure is another problem mentioned by some 2019 GLE owners at around 25,000 miles. The fuel pumps are a known weak spot, and can cause the engine to lose pressure and stall. Often, the pumps are covered under warranty, although if they fail out of warranty then they are roughly $3,000 to replace.
The stereo system freezing up also shows up on some GLE models within the first 2,000 miles. There are software updates available which improve the reliability of the stereo system. Most dealerships will install these updates for free as part of normal servicing, while others charge around $100 for the labor.
There are five recalls on the 2019 Mercedes GLE, which is more than some other SUVs from the same year. The most serious recall covers the engine stalling from water getting into the vehicle. Mercedes will install a drain plug to solve the problem. Other recalls include the emergency call system, along with a rare issue with the roof panel.
How Long Will the 2019 Mercedes GLE Last?
A well-maintained 2019 Mercedes Benz GLE Class can last around 200,000 miles before it becomes way too expensive to keep running, which is shorter than other midsize luxury SUVs like the Lexus RX. Regular annual maintenance costs are higher than average, at $1,150, according to data provided by Repair Pal.
As a used 2019 GLE reaches 100,000 miles and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the battery cable for $275, engine oil cooler costing $950, along with the ignition switch which cost around $1,200.
I have had no mechanical issues with my 2019 GLE. It is very dependable, starts every time without fail.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is excellent, offering a standard 7-inch central screen with the Mercedes COMMAND interface. Optional upgrades include a larger 8-inch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a more powerful stereo system.
Standard safety technology is great for an SUV from 2019, offering:
- Rearview camera
- Automatic emergency braking
- Forward collision warning
- Driver drowsiness monitoring
Optional driver assistance features include:
- Blind spot monitoring
- Lane keep assist
- Automatic high beam headlights
- Rear collision warning
- Hands-free parallel park assist
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Adaptive pivoting headlights
- Surround-view parking camera system
- Adaptive cruise control
- Head-up display
Is the 2019 Mercedes GLE a Good Value?
Yes, the 2019 Mercedes GLE is a good value if you’re in the market for a midsize luxury SUV with an upscale interior. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $39,950 to $92,525, making it more than a Cadillac XT5 or Volvo XC90. When new, the price range was $55,700 to $113,000. Depreciation is worse than some competitors, losing about 15% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Mercedes GLE?
There are four main models of the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE, from the entry-level GLE 400 to the very powerful AMG GLE 63 S. The base models come standard with all-wheel drive while the high-performance models have rear-wheel drive. The GLE is also offered with an SUV body style and a coupe body style.
GLE 400 is the entry-level model with:
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Sunroof, power-folding/auto-dimming mirrors, and power liftgate
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Power-adjustable steering wheel and heated front seats
- 10-way power driver seat with memory functions
- COMAND electronics interface with a 7-inch display
- Keyless start and 4G LTE Wi-Fi
- Rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, and crosswind assist
- Premium 1 package: 8-inch navigation screen, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, 14-speaker Harman Kardon audio, and blind-spot monitoring
- The Premium 2 package: adaptive LED headlights, ambient lighting, and rear-window sunshades
- Premium 3 package: 360-degree parking camera, adaptive cruise control, and automated parking system
AMG GLE 43 adds more upgrades with:
- 20-inch wheels and AMG-tuned adaptive air suspension
- Sport exhaust and exterior styling upgrades
- Flat-bottom steering wheel
- Includes features from the Premium 1 package
AMG GLE 63 is a high-performance model with:
- Upgraded brakes, active stabilizer bars, and summer performance tires
- 10-way power passenger seat with memory functions
- Upgraded leather upholstery, wood trim, and faux suede headliner
- Includes features from the Premium 2 package
AMG GLE 63 S is the flagship model with:
- 21-inch wheels and red brake calipers
- Faux suede steering-wheel inserts
Optional Features (Available for all models)
- Panoramic sunroof, trailer hitch, and tri-zone climate control
- Multicontour front seats with massage and heated rear seats
- Heated steering wheel and rear-seat entertainment system
- 14-speaker Harman Kardon or Bang & Olufsen audio system
Note: Many features in the upper trims/packages can be added separately
What Engines Come In the Mercedes GLE?
- The GLE 400 4MATIC is powered by a 3.0L V6 biturbo engine, producing 329 hp and 354 lb.-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and has an estimated combined fuel economy of around 20 MPG. The 0-60 time for this model is around 5.9 seconds.
- For those looking for a sportier touch, the AMG GLE 43 has an AMG-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo engine, delivering 385 hp and 384 lb.-ft of torque. Mated to an AMG-enhanced 9-speed automatic transmission, it averages about 18 MPG combined and can accelerate from 0-60 MPH in about 5.6 seconds.
- Moving up the performance ladder, the AMG GLE 63 boasts a handcrafted AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo engine. This powerhouse churns out 550 hp and 516 lb.-ft of torque. It comes with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission, achieves roughly 15 MPG combined, and can dart from 0-60 MPH in about 4.2 seconds.
- Lastly, the pinnacle of performance, the AMG GLE 63 S, is equipped with a handcrafted AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo engine that produces an impressive 577 hp and 561 lb.-ft of torque. With the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission, it also manages around 15 MPG combined, but the 0-60 time is slightly quicker at about 4.1 seconds.
What Colors Does the Mercedes GLE Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Mercedes GLE?
The 2019 Mercedes GLE stands out as a hallmark of luxury and comfort in the SUV segment. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, the GLE boasts plush seating that offers both driver and passengers a supremely comfortable ride, making sure long journeys feel less tiring. The seats are ergonomically designed, often wrapped in high-quality leather with available heating, ventilation, and massage functions.
The spaciousness of the cabin further adds to the comfort, providing ample legroom and headroom for all occupants. The GLE’s suspension is tuned to absorb road imperfections, guaranteeing a smooth and composed ride even on rough terrains. Furthermore, its advanced climate control system, alongside noise insulation, creates a serene atmosphere within the cabin. In short, the 2019 Mercedes GLE prioritizes passenger comfort, making it an excellent choice for those who value a refined and relaxed driving experience.
How Much Storage Space Does the Mercedes GLE Have?
The 2019 Mercedes GLE offers impressive storage space tailored to accommodate the needs of drivers and passengers alike. Specifically, when the rear seats are upright, the GLE provides about 33.3 cubic feet of cargo room. This space can easily hold several suitcases, a stroller, or a week’s worth of groceries.
If more space is required, folding down the rear seats expands the cargo area to a generous 74.9 cubic feet. With this amount of room, users can fit larger items such as bicycles, camping gear, or even some pieces of furniture. The versatility and spaciousness of the 2019 Mercedes GLE’s storage capacity makes it ideal for both everyday tasks and adventurous getaways.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The first generation of the Mercedes GLE was launched for the 2016 model year.
2016: First model year for the Mercedes Benz GLE which replaces the outgoing M-Class with updated styling, new engines, and more standard equipment.
2017: Small changes to the standard equipment, diesel engine removed from the lineup, and the AMG GLE 43 was added to the lineup.
2018: More powerful engine offered in the AMG GLE 43.
2019: GLE 350 has been renamed to GLE 400 with a turbocharged V6, all-wheel drive is also standard on all models.
2020: Fully redesigned for the second generation with new technology features, styling, and engines.
2021: New AMG GLE 53 and GLE 63 S introduced with stronger engines and better handling.
How Does the Mercedes GLE Compare to the Competition?
The 2019 Mercedes Benz GLE is a nice midsize luxury SUV, offering a lot of upscale features and some advanced technology, although ownership costs are higher due to the expensive parts and labor costs.
The Mercedes GLC is a smaller SUV from Mercedes which is about $3,500 less. Steering is more responsive in the Mercedes GLC, while the Mercedes GLE offers more passenger room and stronger engines. We recommend the Mercedes GLE for most shoppers since it’s a more practical choice, although both are worth driving to see which you prefer.
The Audi Q5 is another midsize German luxury SUV which costs around $3,000 less. The standard all-wheel drive system is better in the Audi Q5, while the Mercedes GLE has a higher-quality interior for the cost. We recommend the Mercedes GLE since there are fewer mechanical problems reported from owners as it ages.
Do Owners Recommend the Mercedes GLE?
The vehicle is comfortable and reliable. Room for 5 adults comfortably with space in the very back available for storage.
