Used Mercedes GLE Buying Guide
The GLE is Mercedes’ Range Rover Sport rival — a big, plush family SUV with serious towing chops. Used interest splits between the W166 (2015-2019), now attainable money, and the V167 (2019 on), which added a 5+2 seven-seat option, 48-volt tech and plug-in hybrids with unusually long electric range.
Engines and trims
W166 stock leans on the GLE250d four-cylinder and the far nicer GLE350d V6 diesel; the V167 runs 300d and 400d straight-sixes — the 400d a magnificent towing engine — plus the GLE350de diesel plug-in with 60-plus official electric miles. AMG 53/63 versions serve the committed. AMG Line dominates trim; Premium packs add the E-Active options, Burmester and cameras. Confirm seven-seat fitment on V167s where needed — it was optional.
What to check before buying
Air suspension is near-universal and leads the inspection: level stance after standing, prompt height cycling, no compressor labour. On W166 250d versions, the 2.1’s cold-start voice and any leaks tell the maintenance story; 350d V6s want cooling and turbo-plumbing evidence in the file. V167 checks add hybrid verification (achieved range, charging behaviour, cables) and the full electronics tour — E-Active-equipped cars especially. Towing histories are common: ask, inspect rear bushes and brakes, and read the MOT record for suspension advisories. Big SUVs hide kerbing poorly — walk every corner. Then the non-negotiables: Mercedes problems overview, flagship-grade service history, and a full provenance check with finance verification at these values.
Running costs
Sixes return high-30s to low-40s mpg; the 350de rewards nightly charging like few PHEVs. Tyres, brakes and air springs cost large-SUV money, and luxury-rate VED applies broadly. A warranty deserves consideration beyond factory cover.
Verdict
A V167 GLE400d AMG Line with seven seats and spotless history is the complete family flagship — effortless, cavernous and strong on tow duty. Budget honestly for consumables and buy on the file, not the price.
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