How Much Does the Mercedes GLE Cost?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is a midsize luxury SUV that offers a premium driving experience, advanced technology, and Mercedes prestige. But these desirable attributes come at a price - so how much does the GLE actually cost?

This article provides a comprehensive overview of GLE pricing, including MSRPs for different models, additional options and packages, cost comparisons to rivals, and a look at long-term ownership expenses. Read on to find out if the stylish and capable Mercedes GLE is worth the investment for you.

How Much Does the Mercedes GLE Cost?

Mercedes GLE cost ranges from $58 (≈3.9 hours spent earning money at $15/hour)k up to $117 (≈7.8 hours of labor required at $15/hour)k for the top AMG model. Most buyers add $10 (≈40 minutes working at a $15/hour wage)k+ in options.

Like most vehicles, the GLE comes in a range of trim levels, each with a different starting

MSRP. Here is a detailed overview of base prices across the lineup:

• GLE 350 - The rear-wheel drive GLE 350 starts at $57,800 (≈1.9 years working to pay for this at $15/hour) and is the most affordable model. Power comes from a turbocharged 2.0L inline-4 engine generating 255 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft of torque, delivered through a 9-speed automatic transmission. Standard features include MB-Tex upholstery, synthetic leather with cloth accents, a power liftgate, heated front seats, 64-color ambient lighting, and a 12.3” infotainment display.
• GLE 450 4MATIC - Adding all-wheel drive with the GLE 450 brings the base price up to $65,900 (≈2.1 years working without vacations at a $15/hour job). The more powerful turbocharged 3.0L inline-6 under the hood produces 362 horsepower and 369 lb.-ft of torque. 4MATIC all-wheel drive improves handling and performance in all weather conditions.
• AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ - As the first AMG-tuned model in the range, the GLE 53 starts at $79,750 (≈2.6 years spent earning $15/hour instead of living). It employs a high-output 3.0L turbo Inline-6 making 429 horsepower and 384 lb.-ft, augmented by a 48-volt hybrid system. Handling moves upscale with adaptive damping suspension and performance exhaust. Visual impressions come via a diamond grille, 20” AMG wheels, and aggressive front/rear fascia.
• AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ - For maximum acceleration in the lineup, the hand-built 4.0L biturbo V8 in the AMG GLE 63 S delivers 603 horsepower and 627 lb.-ft, rocketing this SUV from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. Exclusive styling, Nappa leather, and performance upgrades further distinguish this flagship model, which starts at $117,050 (≈3.8 years of your professional life at $15/hour).
• GLE 400e 4MATIC – As a plug-in hybrid, the GLE 400e has a base price of $68,000 (≈2.2 years of uninterrupted work at $15/hour) and uses a 2.0L turbo Inline-4 paired with an electric motor for a total system output of 500 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft. It can cover over 30 miles on electric-only before the gas engine kicks in. Charge port and unique badging set this electrified GLE apart.

With this starting price range spanning from $58 (≈3.9 hours spent earning money at $15/hour)k to $117 (≈7.8 hours of labor required at $15/hour)k, the GLE can fit a variety of budgets for a well-equipped luxury SUV. But most buyers gravitate toward the mid-tier trims and add options.

According to Mercedes-Benz of Des Moines, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE in the US starts at an MSRP of approximately $61,850 (≈2 years spent earning $15/hour instead of living) for the base GLE SUV model, while the GLE Coupe begins at around $76,400 (≈2.4 years of dedicated labor at $15/hour). The GLE lineup includes various trims and configurations, including a plug-in hybrid model and high-performance AMG variants, with prices rising accordingly.

Car and Driver reports that the 2025 GLE-Class starts at about $63,000 (≈2 years working to pay for this at $15/hour) and can go up to nearly $95,000 (≈3 years working to pay for this at $15/hour) depending on the trim and options selected. They recommend the base turbocharged four-cylinder GLE350 as a balanced choice for performance and fuel economy [Car and Driver].

Edmunds lists the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class price range from $61,850 to $130,800 (≈4.2 years spent earning $15/hour instead of living), reflecting the base MSRP across trims including the AMG GLE 63 S, which is the top performance model. The GLE 350 4MATIC is noted as the most popular trim, starting around $64,350 (≈2.1 years working without vacations at a $15/hour job). Prices increase with added features and packages, and optional third-row seating is available on most trims [Edmunds].

Mercedes-Benz USA’s official site confirms the starting price for the 2025 GLE 350 4MATIC SUV at $64,350 (≈2.1 years working without vacations at a $15/hour job), with the GLE 450 4MATIC starting near $71,350 (≈2.3 years of uninterrupted work at $15/hour). AMG models such as the AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S start at approximately $89,200 (≈2.9 years of dedicated labor at $15/hour) and $130,800 (≈4.2 years spent earning $15/hour instead of living) respectively, showcasing a wide price spectrum based on performance and luxury features [Mercedes-Benz USA].

Packages and Options

One advantage of the GLE is expansive customization potential through optional features and packages. Here are some of the most popular additions that significantly enhance the vehicle while adding thousands to the bottom line:

Premium packages – Bundled amenity packages like the $2,260 (≈3.8 weeks of continuous work at $15/hour) Premium Package or $3,600 (≈1.4 months working without a break on a $15/hour salary) Premium Plus Package upgrade the luxury factor with amenities like heated/ventilated front seats, multicolor ambient cabin lighting, a surround view camera, hands-free liftgate, and an air ionizer and fragrance system.

Full leather seating – Instead of standard MB-Tex faux leather, opting for extended Nappa leather costs $2,500 (≈4.2 weeks of employment at a $15/hour wage), covering the dash, doors, and seating in premium leather. Quilted designs and contrast stitching add flair.

Performance upgrades – The $5,000 (≈1.9 months of your working life at $15/hour) AMG Line package adds aggressive AMG lower body styling, 21” AMG wheels, brushed aluminum pedals, and red brake calipers. Larger 22” AMG wheels will set you back $3,200 (≈1.2 months of your working life at $15/hour) but make a bold style statement.

Night package – For a sinister look, the $1,100 (≈1.8 weeks of your career at a $15/hour job) Night Package blacks out exterior chrome and swaps in gloss black 20” wheels.

Panoramic sunroof – A full-length fixed panoramic sunroof provides abundant light and starts at around $1,500 (≈2.5 weeks of non-stop employment at $15/hour).Soft-close doors – Doors quietly pull themselves fully closed with soft-close technology, a $500 (≈4.2 days of your career at $15/hour) option.

Climate comfort – Heated rear seats warm up passengers for $580 (≈4.8 days of your career at $15/hour), while ventilated front and rear seats add cooling airflow for $740 (≈1.2 weeks of continuous work at $15/hour).Air suspension – The Active Ride Control suspension adjusts ride height. It costs $2,610 by itself or comes in the $3,610 Off-Road Package.

With package deals and a la carte options, it’s easy to increase the GLE price by $10,000-$20,000. Know your must-have features before visiting the configurator.

Leasing vs Buying

One major factor that steers total expenditure for the GLE is whether you purchase or lease. Here is how financing options compare:

Buying – Purchasing a GLE will typically require 10-20% down payment, with loan terms spanning 3-5 years if financing the balance. Interest rates for a new vehicle loan average around 4-6% for those with excellent credit scores. While buying means higher out-of-pocket costs up front, you build equity and own the GLE after making the last payment.

Leasing – Many luxury car shoppers opt to lease. GLE lease deals often have $0 due at signing alongside monthly payments ranging from $579 - $779 over a 2–3-year term. You won’t own the GLE after the lease expires, but can frequently upgrade to a newer model. The lower monthly payments help those focused on more affordable budgeting.

Cash Purchase – Paying the GLE’s full price in cash means no financing charges or interest, just the negotiated vehicle cost along with tax, title, and fees. This avoids ongoing payments but requires large savings to fund the purchase.

Visiting a dealer and analyzing lease vs buy costs for your situation will uncover the smarter financial move.

You might also like our articles about the cost of a Bentley, Corvette, or Porsche.

Long-Term Ownership Costs

While the negotiation and financing terms determine the GLE’s sale price, owning and operating this luxury SUV for years to come piles on expenses for insurance, fuel, maintenance, taxes and fees that deserve consideration:

Insurance – Expect to budget approximately $8,000 - $11,000 for comprehensive insurance coverage over 5 years, depending on your age, driving record, chosen deductibles, and location. Premium fuel, high repair costs, and expensive replacement parts make luxury vehicles more costly to insure.

Fuel – With premium gasoline required, counting around $3.50 per gallon and typical driving of 15,000 miles annually, fuel will add up to about $8,500 over 5 years of ownership. The plug-in hybrid GLE 400e will use much less gas.

Maintenance – Luxury vehicles often cost more to maintain due to sophisticated technology and required specialist technicians. Schedule around $4,500 - $6,000 over 5 years for covered maintenance items like brake fluid flushes, new tires, and extended service intervals.

Taxes & Fees – This varies by state, but plan for $2,000 - $3,000 in sales tax plus documentation fees, registration/title costs, personal property taxes, and safety/emissions testing expenses.

Depreciation – Expect high first year depreciation around 30%, averaging 10-15% annually thereafter. With 15,000 miles driven per year, plan for $30,000 - $35,000 in depreciation over a 5-year ownership period.

In total, plan for at least $55,000 in ancillary ownership expenses beyond any lease or finance payments. The GLE carries premium operating costs to consider before purchase.

GLE Trim Levels

The main differences in GLE trim pricing relate to performance, luxury, and technology features included:

• The GLE 350 provides strong value as the most affordable model with generous standard equipment.
• GLE 450 brings added grip of 4MATIC AWD plus a potent turbo-6 engine for $8,100 more.
• AMG GLE 53 truly unlocks performance with its 429-hp hybrid drivetrain. But you pay a $20,000 premium over the GLE 450.
• The mighty AMG GLE 63 S range-topper demands an $80,000 price hike over the GLE 450 for its handcrafted V8 and racetrack-ready dynamics. Hard to justify the cost just for ultimate bragging rights.
• GLE 400e plug-in hybrid balances performance with efficiency. It costs around $10,000 more than an equivalent gas GLE 350.

Unless you need serious power or prestige of the AMG models, the GLE 350 and GLE 450 offer the best blend of luxury, technology, and value in the lineup.

Special Pricing Factors

The plug-in hybrid GLE 400e warrants special pricing consideration for its unconventional powertrain. Here are key factors:

Federal Tax Credit – The current $6,587 federal tax credit lowers the effective cost of purchasing the electrified GLE. State and local credits can add to the savings.

Charging Costs – “Fueling” a PHEV with electricity at home costs significantly less than gasoline. For 15,000 annual miles driven, estimate around $600 in home charging costs with average electric rates.

Fuel Savings – Maximize EV mode driving and the 400e can save $750 or more yearly on gas purchases compared to the GLE 350.

Premium Gas – The gas engine requires more expensive premium fuel, which trims potential fuel savings.

Home Charger – While not mandatory, a home Level 2 charger (240V) provides faster charging for $500-$2,000 installed.

If you drive enough electric miles and claim the tax credits, the GLE 400e can pay off versus gas equivalents. Crunching the numbers decides if it’s the better economic choice.

Regional Variability and Negotiation

Where you buy your GLE and when during the model year impacts the bottom line:

• Inventory varies by region, so deals may be easier to find in some areas. Ask dealers to search for the ideal vehicle.
• End-of-model-year sales typically offer the biggest discounts, with savings of 10% or more off MSRP.
• Shopping nationwide can expose you to the best offers if willing to travel or have car shipped.
• Always negotiate the final out-the-door price including fees. Seek multiple quotes for leverage.

With persistence and compromise on colors or options, you can potentially save thousands off sticker price through careful negotiation.

Mercedes GLE vs Rivals

The GLE faces stiff competition from similar luxury SUVs that can undercut its pricing:

• The BMW X5 starts around $3,000 less than an equivalent GLE and offers similar performance and luxury. Strong value.
• Audi Q7 pricing also closely matches the GLE. It one-ups the Mercedes in some technology offerings.
• Lexus RX has lower starting prices by around $10,000 compared to the GLE 350. The trade-off is less powerful engines and performance.
• Acura MDX provides lots of family-friendly value at over $25,000 below a base GLE, though it doesn’t have the prestige luxury badge.

The Mercedes GLE holds its own against rivals but isn’t clearly better across metrics. Carefully test drive and compare.

Final Words

There’s no getting around the fact that the GLE costs a premium. But its combination of luxury, technology, comfort, safety, and performance make it an appealing choice if you can accommodate the expense. Factor in capability, refinement, prestige, and Mercedes’ proven reputation for durability and high resale value, and the GLE merits its cost for the right buyer.

Take time to analyze your budget and driving needs to decide if this Mercedes SUV is worth the investment for your circumstances. Cost shouldn’t be the only consideration - the overall ownership experience matters too.

Answers to Common Questions

Is the Mercedes GLE expensive to maintain?

The Mercedes GLE is more expensive to maintain than non-luxury SUVs, with estimated maintenance costs averaging $4,500-$6,000 over 5 years. This covers standard services plus wear items like brakes and tires. More intensive repairs on complex systems can cost thousands more. The good news is the GLE is built to last over 200,000+ miles if properly serviced. Consider budgeting around $1,000 per year for maintenance.

What is the electrical problem with the Mercedes GLE?

Some Mercedes GLE owners have reported electrical gremlins caused by faulty wiring harnesses and connectors. This can cause warning lights and electrical components like power seats to stop working properly. Mercedes extended the warranty on wiring and connectors up to 10 years/120,000 miles to address the issue. Having the latest software updates performed seems to limit problems. Check for TSBs on wiring before purchasing.

Does the Mercedes GLE hold its value?

Yes, the Mercedes GLE enjoys strong resale value that makes ownership cost more reasonable. According to iSeeCars, the GLE only depreciates an average of 37% after 5 years. This compares very favorably to other luxury SUVs. The high desirability of the Mercedes brand and the GLE's proven reputation for quality, safety, and durability support better residual value. Make sure to get a pre-purchase inspection since repairs can negate savings on a used GLE.