Have you ever seen a luxury car so often that you start to wonder if the owners got it for free? Well, the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 might just be that car. But don’t let its ubiquity fool you—this SUV can cost over ₦120 million in Nigeria! So, what exactly does that kind of money get you?
In this review, we’re diving deep into the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE450. We’ll explore its features, weigh the pros and cons, and help you decide if it’s the right luxury SUV for you. Ready to find out if this ride lives up to its price tag? Let’s get started!
If you’d rather watch a video review, check out this in-depth look at the GLE450.
Exterior Design: A Head-Turning Upgrade
A few years back, Mercedes revamped their ML-Class SUV, giving birth to the GLE. This positions it alongside the GLA, GLB, GLC, and GLS in their SUV lineup. Think of the GLE as the Goldilocks of the bunch—the midsize option that’s just right.
The front of this car has undergone a serious makeover since the last generation. The headlights are a major improvement, giving it a modern and aggressive look. Can you spot the difference between the newer and older models? It’s like night and day!
The rear also received a notable upgrade. It’s clean, refined, and definitely feels like a step up. One cool feature? The back camera is hidden and only pops out when you put the car in reverse. Pretty neat, right?
Someone once said the “E” in GLE stands for “elegance,” and I’m inclined to agree. The bumper flare above the wheels adds a sporty touch that was missing in previous models. It enhances its look!
Don’t let the elegant design fool you, this car has great ground clearance. This means it’s comfortable on rough roads, and you can even take it off-road. Who says you can’t have luxury and ruggedness in one package?
When it comes to rivals, the BMW X5 and Lexus RX 350 immediately come to mind. Which of these SUVs would you choose? Let us know in the comments!
Interior and Key Features: A Luxurious Cockpit
Stepping inside, the cockpit of the GLE 450 is a blend of luxury and technology. One standout feature is the four AC vents in the center console. Instead of the typical large screen with scattered buttons, everything has been simplified. These vents efficiently circulate air throughout the cabin, ensuring everyone stays cool and comfortable.
Seat Adjustment
Adjusting the seats in the GLE 450 is a unique experience. Instead of standard buttons, Mercedes uses seat-shaped controls. Simply press the part of the seat you want to adjust, and you’re good to go. It’s intuitive and adds a touch of sophistication to the overall design.
Ambient Lighting
The ambient lighting in this car is amazing. It runs along the front of the dashboard and throughout the cabin, creating a relaxing atmosphere. Customizing the colors is easy! Just navigate to the comfort settings in the infotainment system.
Here are some available ambient lighting colors:
- Blue
- Green
- Red
- Purple
- White
- Multi-color
Seat Kinetics
Ever get uncomfortable on long drives? The GLE 450 has you covered with its seat kinetics feature. This system subtly adjusts the seat to keep your body comfortable and prevent back pain. Say goodbye to those awkward stretches and adjustments! Seat kinetics can be set up for both the driver and passenger, ensuring everyone enjoys a pain-free ride.
Massage Functions
If seat kinetics isn’t enough, you can also indulge in a massage! The GLE 450 offers seven different massage types, including:
- Weight Massage
- Classic Massage
- Relaxing Massage
- Mobilizing Massage
- Workout Massage
These features transform your daily commute into a spa-like experience. Who wouldn’t want a massage while stuck in traffic?
Infotainment System: Four Ways to Control It
Mercedes gives you multiple ways to interact with the GLE 450’s infotainment system:
- Center Console Controls: Use the touchpad and buttons on the center console.
- Touchscreen: Directly interact with the screen.
- Steering Wheel Controls: Access key functions without taking your hands off the wheel.
- Voice Control: Activate the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant.
Want to adjust the temperature? Simply say, “Hey Mercedes, I’m cold.” The system will respond by increasing the temperature on the driver’s side. It’s like having a personal assistant in your car!
Parking Assistance and Off-Road Capabilities
Navigating tight parking spaces can be stressful, especially in a bustling city. The GLE 450’s parking space feature makes things easier. The car uses sensors and cameras to find available parking spaces and guide you into them.
The display shows a real-time view of your surroundings, including:
- The front of the car
- The sides
- Both areas combined
- The rear view from the camera
The best part? The system can automatically park the car for you!
Grab Handles
Notice those grab handles in the interior? They’re not just for show. They’re a reminder that this luxury SUV is ready for off-road adventures. So, don’t be afraid to get a little mud on those tires!
Back Seat Experience: Roomy and Comfortable
The back seat of the GLE 450 is surprisingly spacious. There’s plenty of headroom and legroom for passengers to stretch out and relax. Plus, there’s an optional third-row seat, making it a great choice for families.
The back seat also features adjustable AC vents. Passengers can customize the airflow to their liking, ensuring everyone stays comfortable.
Charging Ports
Keeping your devices charged is easy with the GLE 450’s charging ports. There are USBC ports and a regular charging port available in the back seat. In total, there are four charging ports in the back and a wireless charging pad in the front.
Key back seat features include:
- Good headroom and legroom
- Adjustable AC vents
- USB-C charging ports
- Regular charging port
Engine and Performance: GLE 350 vs. GLE 450
Before we dive into the engine, let’s talk about the doors. The GLE 450 features soft-close doors. No need to slam them—they automatically close gently and quietly.
The main difference between the GLE 350 and GLE 450 lies in the engine.
- The GLE 350 has a 2L turbocharged engine.
- The GLE 450 boasts a 3L inline six-cylinder engine.
Filling the GLE 450’s tank can cost around ₦90,000, and that might not last you the whole week. If you’re looking for better fuel economy, the GLE 350 is the way to go.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two engines:
| Feature | GLE 350 | GLE 450 |
| Engine | 2L Turbocharged | 3L Inline Six-Cylinder |
| Fuel Economy | Better | Lower |
| Performance | Good | Excellent |
Pros and Cons of the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450
Like any car, the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 has its strengths and weaknesses.
Pros:
- Luxurious and elegant design
- Advanced technology features (ambient lighting, seat kinetics, massage functions)
- Comfortable and spacious interior
- Off-road capabilities
- Multiple infotainment control options
- Parking assistance features
Cons:
- High price tag (₦120 million+)
- Poor fuel economy (GLE 450)
- Potential maintenance costs associated with luxury vehicles
Are the pros worth the hefty price tag? That depends on your priorities.
This car is best suited for buyers who:
- Value luxury and comfort
- Want the latest technology features
- Need a spacious SUV for family or passengers
- Are willing to pay a premium for the Mercedes-Benz brand
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 Worth the Investment?
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE450 is a luxury SUV packed with advanced features, a comfortable interior, and impressive performance. From its elegant design to its off-road capabilities, this car offers a lot.
However, the high price tag and poor fuel economy are significant drawbacks. If you’re on a budget, the GLE 450 might not be the best choice. But if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line SUV and are willing to pay for it, the GLE 450 is definitely worth considering.
Buying Options and Recommendations
The GLE 450 reviewed in this post was sourced from Tatara Autos. If you’re interested in buying this car or any other vehicle, reach out to them via email at cars@234drive.com. They’ll be happy to assist you in finding the perfect ride.
Conclusion
Thanks for reading our review of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE450! We hope this post has helped you make a more informed decision about this luxury SUV. Don’t forget to check out the 234Drive YouTube channel for more car reviews and automotive insights. Feel free to leave a comment below and share your thoughts on the GLE 450!
