The Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 V6 4MATIC, produced from October 2016 to May 2018, represents a mid-range offering within the W166 GLE SUV generation. Positioned between the entry-level GLE 350 and the performance-oriented AMG variants, the GLE 400 aimed to deliver a balance of luxury, performance, and technology. It served as a key model in Mercedes-Benz’s lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a spacious, capable SUV with a more powerful engine than the base models. The W166 generation itself was a significant update to the previous M-Class, bringing with it revised styling, improved interior appointments, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLE |
| Generation | GLE SUV (W166) |
| Type | GLE 400 V6 (333 Hp) 4MATIC 9G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | October, 2016 |
| End of production | May, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.8-11.1 l/100 km (21.8 – 21.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1-7.4 l/100 km (33.1 – 31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5-8.7 l/100 km (27.7 – 27 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 197-204 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 247 km/h (153.48 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 333 Hp @ 5250-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 480 Nm @ 1600-4000 rpm (354.03 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 276.821 |
| 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 capacity | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2075 kg (4574.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2900 kg (6393.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 825 kg (1818.81 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 690 l (24.37 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2010 l (70.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 93 l (24.57 US gal | 20.46 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 140 kg (308.65 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 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.) |
| Approach angle | 26° |
| Departure angle | 26° |
| Climb angle | 45° |
| Wading depth | 500 mm (19.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 9 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 255/55 R18; 255/50 R19; 265/45 R20; 265/40 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 8J x 19; 8.5J x 19; 9J x 20; 9J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The GLE 400 V6 utilized Mercedes-Benz’s M 276.821 engine, a 3.0-liter V6 engine employing direct injection and twin-turbocharging. This engine produced 333 horsepower at 5250-6000 rpm and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque between 1600-4000 rpm. The engine featured a DOHC valvetrain and a compression ratio of 10.5:1. The twin-turbo setup provided strong low-end torque and responsive acceleration. The engine was longitudinally mounted in the engine bay. Paired with the engine was the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission, a key component in improving fuel efficiency and providing smooth gear changes. This transmission offered a wide range of gear ratios, optimizing engine performance for both highway cruising and spirited driving. The 9G-TRONIC also featured a start/stop system to further enhance fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The GLE 400 V6 4MATIC offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. The 333 hp engine and nine-speed transmission provided ample power for everyday driving and confident passing maneuvers. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 5.7 seconds. The 9G-TRONIC transmission, while generally smooth, could occasionally exhibit slight hesitation during downshifts. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in various weather conditions. Compared to the base GLE 350, the GLE 400 offered a noticeable performance upgrade. However, it didn’t possess the outright sportiness of the AMG-tuned models. The suspension, while comfortable, leaned towards a more luxurious ride rather than a firm, performance-oriented setup.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLE 400 V6 4MATIC came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Interior trim options varied, allowing buyers to customize the cabin to their preferences. The dashboard featured a prominent infotainment screen controlled by a rotary dial and touchpad.
Chassis & Braking
The W166 GLE 400 V6 utilized a coil spring suspension with a double wishbone front setup and an independent multi-link rear suspension. Air suspension was available as an option, providing adjustable ride height and improved comfort. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock braking system) was standard. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLE 400 V6 4MATIC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the infotainment system could be complex to navigate. Compared to the GLE 350, the 400 offered a significant performance boost, justifying the higher price tag for buyers prioritizing power. Fuel economy was respectable for a vehicle of its size and performance, averaging around 27.7 mpg combined. Reliability reports indicated that the M 276 engine was generally reliable, although some owners reported issues with the air suspension system (if equipped).
Legacy
The GLE 400 V6 4MATIC remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of luxury, performance, and technology continues to appeal to buyers seeking a capable and comfortable SUV. The M 276 engine has proven to be relatively durable, although regular maintenance is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. The 9G-TRONIC transmission, while sophisticated, may require occasional servicing to address potential software glitches. Overall, the GLE 400 V6 4MATIC represents a well-rounded and capable SUV that offers a compelling blend of features and performance.
