The Mercedes-Benz GLE 500e V6 (442 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4MATIC, produced from 2015 to 2018, represents a significant step in Mercedes-Benz’s early foray into plug-in hybrid technology within the popular GLE SUV (W166) range. Positioned as a premium offering, it bridged the gap between traditional luxury SUVs and the emerging market for electrified vehicles. This variant combined a potent 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and reduced emissions. It was a key model in establishing Mercedes-Benz’s EQ Power branding before the full launch of the EQ dedicated electric vehicle line.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLE |
| Generation | GLE SUV (W166) |
| Type | GLE 500e V6 (442 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC PLUS |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.3-3.7 l/100 km (71.3 – 63.6 US mpg, 85.6 – 76.3 UK mpg, 30.3 – 27 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 78-84 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 245 km/h (152.24 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 184.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 272 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 8.8 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 7.2 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Inside the trunk |
| All-electric range | 30 km (18.64 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 16.7 kWh/100 km (26.88 kWh/100 mi, 125 MPGe, 6 km/kWh, 3.7 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 130 km/h (80.78 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 116 Hp @ 3500 rpm (340 Nm @ 0-2000 rpm / 250.77 lb.-ft. @ 0-2000 rpm) |
| System power | 442 Hp @ 5250-5500 rpm (650 Nm / 479.42 lb.-ft.) |
| Internal combustion engine power | 333 Hp @ 5250-6000 rpm (480 Nm @ 1600-4000 rpm / 354.03 lb.-ft. @ 1600-4000 rpm) |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.1 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.7 l (10.25 US qt | 8.53 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2390 kg (5269.05 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3050 kg (6724.1 lbs.) |
| Max load | 660 kg (1455.05 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1800 l (63.57 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 160 kg (352.74 lbs.) |
| Length | 4819 mm (189.72 in.) |
| Width | 1935 mm (76.18 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2141 mm (84.29 in.) |
| Height | 1796 mm (70.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2915 mm (114.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1648 mm (64.88 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1663 mm (65.47 in.) |
| Front overhang | 890 mm (35.04 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1014 mm (39.92 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 202 mm (7.95 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive all four wheels, operating in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC PLUS |
| 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 | 255/50 R19; 265/45 R20; 265/40 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 19; 9J x 20; 9J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the GLE 500e lies Mercedes-Benz’s M 276.821 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine. This engine, already known for its smooth power delivery, was enhanced with direct injection and twin-turbocharging. It produces 333 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with this is a 116 horsepower electric motor, integrated between the engine and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission. This placement allows for both electric-only propulsion and a combined system output of 442 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission was specifically calibrated to work seamlessly with the electric motor, providing smooth shifts and efficient power delivery. The 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located under the cargo floor, provides an all-electric range of approximately 18.6 miles (30 km) under the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) standards.
Driving Characteristics
The GLE 500e offered a unique driving experience. In electric mode, it provided near-silent operation and instant torque, making it ideal for city driving. Switching to hybrid mode allowed the gasoline engine to kick in when needed, providing ample power for highway cruising and overtaking. The combined output resulted in a 0-60 mph time of around 5 seconds and a top speed of 152 mph. While the added weight of the battery pack slightly impacted handling compared to non-hybrid GLE models, the sophisticated suspension system maintained a comfortable and controlled ride. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission, while generally smooth, could occasionally exhibit slight hesitation during transitions between electric and gasoline power.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLE 500e was typically well-equipped, reflecting its premium positioning. Standard features included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a high-end audio system. Mercedes’ COMAND infotainment system with navigation was also standard. Optional extras included advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera. Interior trim options ranged from wood veneers to aluminum accents, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The GLE 500e utilized a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and stable ride. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted on all four wheels, offering strong stopping power. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensured optimal traction in various weather conditions. Due to the increased weight from the battery pack, the suspension components were slightly reinforced compared to the standard GLE models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLE 500e was generally well-received by critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, smooth ride, and powerful performance. However, some reviewers noted the reduced cargo space due to the battery pack and the relatively high price compared to other GLE variants. Compared to the GLE 350, the 500e offered significantly more power and the benefit of electric-only driving, but at a substantial cost premium. Against the GLE 450 AMG, the 500e traded some outright sportiness for improved fuel economy and environmental credentials. The fuel economy, at 3.3-3.7 l/100km, was a significant improvement over the gasoline-only models.
Legacy
The GLE 500e V6 Plug-in Hybrid served as an important stepping stone for Mercedes-Benz in its electrification strategy. While early plug-in hybrid technology faced some challenges with battery longevity and complexity, the GLE 500e has proven to be relatively reliable in the long term, with many examples still on the road today. The powertrain, while not without its quirks, demonstrated Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to developing efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles. On the used car market, the GLE 500e remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a luxurious and fuel-efficient SUV with a touch of cutting-edge technology.
