2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Engine and Transmission Features

The Mercedes-Benz GLE continues to set standards in the luxury SUV segment with its powerful and sophisticated powertrain options. This latest iteration builds upon the GLE reputation for blending performance, efficiency, and refinement. Let's examine the impressive array of engines and transmission technologies that power this premium SUV and discover how they contribute to an exceptional driving experience.

Power Options for Every Driver

The Foundation of Performance

The GLE lineup offers multiple powertrain options, each meticulously engineered to deliver a distinct driving character. From efficient daily commuting to spirited weekend drives, the GLE provides power solutions tailored to diverse driving preferences and needs.

The range begins with the GLE 350, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that generates 255 horsepower and 295 Nm of torque. This entry-level option delivers a perfect balance of efficiency and capability, providing responsive acceleration and confident passing power on the highway. The sophisticated engine design incorporates variable valve timing and direct injection technology to maximize performance while minimizing fuel consumption.

For drivers seeking additional performance, the GLE 450 features a 3.0-litre inline-six turbocharged engine that produces 362 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. This powerplant offers effortless acceleration and exceptional refinement, with a smooth power delivery that enhances the luxury driving experience. The inline-six configuration provides naturally balanced operation, resulting in minimal vibration and noise for a serene cabin environment.

Advanced Hybrid Technology

The GLE embraces electrification with the innovative EQ Boost mild hybrid system available across much of the lineup. This technology incorporates a 48-volt electrical system and an integrated starter-generator that provides an additional 21 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque when needed. The system delivers several benefits:

• Instantaneous torque for improved acceleration response
• Smoother operation of the automatic start-stop function
• Energy recovery during deceleration to charge the battery
• Ability to "coast" with the engine off in certain conditions, improving fuel efficiency

The GLE 580 combines luxury with impressive performance through its 4.0-litre biturbo V8 engine, which is also enhanced by EQ Boost technology. This powerful combination delivers 483 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque, providing exhilarating acceleration while maintaining the refinement expected of a luxury SUV. The V8 engine features twin-scroll turbochargers positioned within the "V" of the engine for optimized response and efficiency.

For those seeking the ultimate in GLE performance, the AMG GLE 53 offers 429 horsepower and 520 Nm of torque from its enhanced 3.0-litre inline-six. AMG-specific tuning provides sharper throttle response and more aggressive power delivery, transforming the GLE into a genuinely sporty driving experience without sacrificing luxury.

Transmission Excellence

The 9G-TRONIC: Precision and Smoothness

Every GLE model features the Mercedes-Benz advanced 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. This sophisticated gearbox plays a crucial role in the vehicle's character, delivering several key advantages:

• Nine forward gears provide optimal engine speed for any driving situation
• Close ratio spacing ensures smooth, nearly imperceptible gear changes
• Wide overall gear ratio spread enables both responsive acceleration and efficient highway cruising
• Advanced shift logic adapts to driving style and conditions for optimal performance
• Multiple shift modes allow drivers to tailor the transmission behaviour to their preferences

The 9G-TRONIC transmission features a torque converter with lockup clutch, providing the smooth take-off characteristics of a traditional automatic with the efficiency benefits of a direct mechanical connection at cruising speeds. Sophisticated electronic controls continuously optimize shift points based on numerous parameters, including throttle position, vehicle speed, load conditions, and even road gradient.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G

The performance-oriented AMG models receive the specially tuned AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission. This high-performance variant of the nine-speed automatic offers:

• Quicker shift times for more dynamic response
• Rev-matching technology for smoother downshifts
• More aggressive shift mapping in Sport and Sport+ modes
• Multiple driving modes that alter shift strategy to match driving conditions
• Manual shift capability via steering wheel paddles for maximum driver control

The AMG transmission is engineered to handle the increased torque output of performance-oriented engines while delivering the direct, engaging feel that AMG drivers expect. When combined with the various AMG-specific drive modes, the transmission transforms the character of the vehicle from comfortable cruiser to responsive performance SUV at the touch of a button.

Intelligent All-Wheel Drive

4MATIC and 4MATIC+: Traction in All Conditions

The GLE features the Mercedes-Benz advanced 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system as standard across the lineup. This intelligent system continuously monitors traction conditions and can instantly redirect power to the wheels with the most grip. The system offers several important benefits:

• Fully variable torque distribution between front and rear axles
• Seamless operation that requires no driver intervention
• Enhanced stability in all weather conditions
• Improved handling characteristics on both wet and dry roads
• Minimal impact on fuel efficiency compared to traditional all-wheel drive systems

The standard 4MATIC system typically operates with a rear-biased torque distribution to maintain the sporty, rear-wheel drive feel that luxury SUV buyers prefer. However, it can instantly send up to 50% of power to the front wheels when conditions demand.

The performance-oriented AMG models feature the enhanced 4MATIC+ system with fully variable torque distribution capabilities. This more sophisticated system can send up to 100% of power to either the front or rear axle, depending on driving conditions and selected drive mode. The result is optimized traction for acceleration while maintaining the dynamic handling characteristics expected of an AMG vehicle.

Drive Modes and Adaptability

Personalized Performance

The GLE offers the DYNAMIC SELECT system, allowing drivers to instantly alter the vehicle's character through multiple drive modes. These modes modify various aspects of the powertrain, including:

• Throttle response mapping for more or less aggressive acceleration
• Transmission shift points and shift speed
• Engine sound characteristics
• Suspension firmness on vehicles equipped with adaptive damping
• Steering weight and responsiveness

Available drive modes typically include:

• Comfort: Optimized for smooth, efficient daily driving with early upshifts and relaxed throttle mapping
• Sport: Sharpened responses with later upshifts and more aggressive throttle mapping
• Sport+: Maximum performance with the most aggressive shift strategy and throttle response
• Individual: Custom configuration allowing drivers to mix elements from different modes
• ECO: Focused on maximum efficiency with features like earlier upshifts and optimized energy recuperation

The DYNAMIC SELECT system ensures the GLE adapts to both driver preferences and varying road conditions, providing an optimal driving experience in any situation.

Off-Road Capability

Trail-Ready Technology

Despite its luxury positioning, the GLE offers impressive off-road capabilities when properly equipped. The available E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension works in concert with the powertrain to enhance off-road performance:

• Adjustable ride height with up to 80 mm of additional ground clearance when needed
• Individual wheel control for improved traction on uneven terrain
• Special off-road drive modes that optimize engine and transmission response for different surfaces
• Low-range gearing for challenging conditions on properly equipped models

The dedicated Off-Road mode adjusts the engine's power delivery for more precise control when navigating challenging terrain. The transmission shift points are also modified to maintain optimal engine speed for maximum torque availability, crucial for off-road situations.

Efficiency Technologies

Balancing Power and Responsibility

The GLE incorporates numerous technologies to maximize efficiency without compromising performance:

• Advanced direct injection systems that precisely control fuel delivery
• Variable valve timing that optimizes engine breathing across the rev range
• Cylinder deactivation on V8 models that can shut down four cylinders during light load conditions
• Intelligent thermal management systems that bring the powertrain to optimal operating temperature quickly
• Aerodynamic improvements that reduce drag and improve efficiency at highway speeds

The ECO start/stop function temporarily shuts down the engine when the vehicle is stationary, such as at traffic lights, to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The integration of the 48-volt electrical system in EQ Boost models makes this operation nearly imperceptible to occupants, with instant restarts when the brake pedal is released.

The Future of GLE Powertrains

Electrification Path

The GLE represents a transitional period as Mercedes-Benz continues its strategic shift toward increased electrification. While maintaining the powerful conventional engines that luxury SUV buyers expect, the GLE incorporates hybrid technology that improves both performance and efficiency.

The plug-in hybrid GLE 350e 4MATIC combines a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a powerful electric motor, delivering approximately 375 horsepower and enabling pure-electric driving for daily commuting. The substantial battery pack provides an electric-only range of up to 90 kilometres, allowing many drivers to complete their daily commute without using any gasoline.

As Mercedes-Benz continues to expand its EQ sub-brand of fully electric vehicles, technology and lessons learned from these developments will continue to influence and improve the GLE powertrain options in the coming model years.

Performance Numbers

Measurable Excellence

The diverse powertrain options in the GLE lineup deliver impressive performance metrics:

• GLE 350 4MATIC: 0-100 km/h in approximately 7.1 seconds
• GLE 450 4MATIC: 0-100 km/h in approximately 5.7 seconds
• GLE 580 4MATIC: 0-100 km/h in approximately 4.9 seconds
• AMG GLE 53: 0-100 km/h in approximately 5.3 seconds
• AMG GLE 63 S: 0-100 km/h in approximately 3.8 seconds

These acceleration figures illustrate the range of performance available within the GLE family, from the efficient yet capable entry models to the breathtaking performance of the AMG variants.

The Drive Experience

Engineering Excellence You Can Feel

What truly sets the GLE powertrain apart isn't just the impressive specifications, but how those numbers translate to the actual driving experience. The combination of powerful engines, sophisticated transmission technology, and intelligent all-wheel drive creates a driving character that perfectly matches the GLE luxury positioning.

From the smooth, nearly imperceptible gear changes to the immediate throttle response, every aspect of the powertrain has been engineered to deliver both performance and refinement. Whether accelerating onto a highway, navigating city streets, or cruising on the open road, the GLE powertrain provides confidence-inspiring power delivery that enhances the overall driving experience.

Mercedes-Benz GLE: Refined Performance 

The Mercedes-Benz GLE powertrain lineup exemplifies the brand's commitment to engineering excellence. By offering multiple engine options with varying performance characteristics, Mercedes-Benz ensures there's a GLE model suited to every luxury SUV buyer's preferences and needs.

From the efficient yet capable four-cylinder to the exhilarating AMG-tuned engines, each powerplant delivers the refinement, performance, and prestige expected of the Mercedes-Benz star. Combined with the sophisticated 9G-TRONIC transmission and intelligent 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the GLE powertrains set a standard that competitors strive to match.

*Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.*