The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350de 4MATIC, produced from September 2019 to 2023, represents a significant step in the V167 GLE SUV generation’s push towards electrification. This plug-in hybrid diesel variant combined a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine with an electric motor, offering a blend of efficiency, performance, and all-wheel-drive capability. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the GLE lineup, the 350de aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a premium SUV experience with reduced emissions and the flexibility of electric-only driving. It was a key model in Mercedes-Benz’s strategy to offer electrified options across its entire portfolio, particularly in the European market where diesel-electric hybrids were gaining popularity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLE |
| Generation | GLE SUV (V167) |
| Type | GLE 350de (320 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4MATIC 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | September, 2019 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 0.7-1 l/100 km (336 – 235.2 US mpg, 403.5 – 282.5 UK mpg, 142.9 – 100 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 18-25 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC) – combined | 1.1 l/100 km (213.8 US mpg, 256.8 UK mpg, 90.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 29 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 124 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 271.3 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 31.2 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 27 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Under the trunk |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 85-98 km (52.82 – 60.89 mi) |
| All-electric range (NEDC) | 93-106 km (57.79 – 65.87 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 23.9-26.4 kWh/100 km (38.46 – 42.49 kWh/100 mi, 88 – 79 MPGe, 4.2 – 3.8 km/kWh, 2.6 – 2.4 mi/kWh) |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC) | 25.4 kWh/100 km (40.88 kWh/100 mi, 82 MPGe, 3.9 km/kWh, 2.4 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 136 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 440 Nm @ 0-2500 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 0-2500 rpm) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 320 Hp |
| System torque | 700 Nm (516.29 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 194 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Engine Torque | 400 Nm @ 1600-2800 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | OM 654.920 |
| Engine displacement | 1950 cm3 (119 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.3 mm (3.63 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2580 kg (5687.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3260 kg (7187.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 490 l (17.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1915 l (67.63 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 32 l (8.45 US gal | 7.04 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2700 kg (5952.48 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 108 kg (238.1 lbs.) |
| Length | 4924 mm (193.86 in.) |
| Width | 1947 mm (76.65 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2010 mm (79.13 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2157 mm (84.92 in.) |
| Height | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2995 mm (117.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1727 mm (67.99 in.) |
| Front overhang | 925 mm (36.42 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1004 mm (39.53 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 180-205 mm (7.09 – 8.07 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.02 m (39.44 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 23-25° |
| Departure angle | 23-25° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 15-17° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor permanently drive the four wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size Front | 275/55 R19; 275/50 R20; 275/45 R21; 285/40 R22 |
| Tires size Rear | 275/55 R19; 275/50 R20; 315/40 R21; 325/35 R22 |
| Wheel rims size Front | 8.5J x 19; 8.5J x 20; 10J x 21; 10J x 22 |
| Wheel rims size Rear | 8.5J x 19; 8.5J x 20; 11J x 21; 11J x 22 |
INTRODUCTION
The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350de 4MATIC, launched in September 2019 and continuing through 2023, is a plug-in hybrid SUV built on the V167 GLE platform. This model represents Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to offering electrified powertrains within its popular SUV range. The “de” designation signifies its diesel-electric hybrid configuration. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where diesel engines remained prevalent and plug-in hybrid technology was gaining traction due to increasingly stringent emissions regulations. The 350de aimed to provide a balance between fuel efficiency, performance, and the practicality of a mid-size luxury SUV.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the GLE 350de lies a 1950cc (1.9-liter) inline-four cylinder diesel engine, internally designated as the OM 654.920. This engine utilizes a sophisticated commonrail direct injection system and a turbocharger with intercooling to produce 194 horsepower at 3800 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 2800 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and a high compression ratio of 15.5:1, contributing to its efficiency. Integrated with the diesel engine is a 136 horsepower electric motor, positioned between the engine and the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. This electric motor delivers 440 Nm (324.5 lb-ft) of torque, available instantly from 0-2500 rpm. The combined system output is 320 horsepower and 700 Nm (516.3 lb-ft) of torque. The 27 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located under the trunk floor, provides an all-electric range of 85-98 km (53-61 miles) under WLTP testing. The 9G-TRONIC transmission is specifically calibrated to work seamlessly with the electric motor, optimizing power delivery and efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The GLE 350de offers a unique driving experience thanks to its hybrid powertrain. In electric-only mode, the vehicle provides near-silent operation and brisk acceleration for city driving. Switching to hybrid mode allows the diesel engine and electric motor to work in tandem, delivering strong and responsive performance. The 9G-TRONIC transmission provides smooth and quick gear changes, enhancing the overall driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of the higher-performance GLE variants, the 350de offers ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The electric motor’s instant torque helps to fill in any gaps in the diesel engine’s power delivery, resulting in a smooth and linear acceleration curve. Compared to the GLE 300d (diesel only), the 350de offers improved fuel economy and the ability to drive in zero-emission zones. Compared to the GLE 450, the 350de sacrifices some outright performance but gains significant fuel efficiency advantages.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLE 350de typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium SUV. Standard features generally included Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and a comprehensive suite of safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included air suspension, a panoramic sunroof, premium sound systems, and various interior trim upgrades. The interior design was consistent with other V167 GLE models, offering a luxurious and modern aesthetic. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that added features like upgraded wheels, exterior styling enhancements, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The GLE 350de utilizes a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is tuned to balance ride comfort with handling performance. Due to the added weight of the battery pack, the suspension components were often reinforced compared to non-hybrid GLE models. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The vehicle is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and other electronic stability control systems. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various weather conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLE 350de was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, smooth ride, and quiet operation in electric mode. However, some reviewers noted that the added weight of the battery pack slightly impacted handling agility compared to lighter GLE variants. Fuel economy figures were impressive, with the WLTP combined consumption ranging from 0.7 to 1.0 l/100km. Compared to the GLE 300d, the 350de offered lower running costs, particularly for drivers who frequently commute in urban areas. Compared to the petrol-powered GLE 450, the 350de provided a more environmentally friendly option with comparable performance.
Legacy
The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350de represents an important step in the brand’s transition towards electrification. The OM 654 diesel engine, combined with the electric motor and 9G-TRONIC transmission, proved to be a reliable and efficient powertrain. On the used car market, the 350de holds its value relatively well, particularly among buyers seeking a premium SUV with low running costs and the ability to drive in electric mode. The long-term reliability of the battery pack remains a key consideration for potential buyers, but Mercedes-Benz offers warranties on its hybrid components. The GLE 350de paved the way for further electrified models in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to sustainable mobility.
