2016 Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe: A Comprehensive Review

Nov 18, 2025 by Alex Braham 52 views

Hey guys! Ever wondered what it's like to cruise around in a stylish, powerful, and luxurious SUV-coupe? Well, let's dive headfirst into the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 Coupe! This vehicle isn't just a car; it's a statement. It perfectly blends the practicality of an SUV with the sleek, sporty lines of a coupe. Buckle up, because we're about to explore everything from its engine to its interior, and everything in between. We'll cover the specs, price, features, performance, interior, exterior, driving experience, and even stack it up against its rivals. Let's get this review started, shall we?

Unveiling the 2016 Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe: Initial Impressions

First impressions matter, right? When you first lay eyes on the 2016 Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe, it's hard not to be captivated. The sloping roofline gives it a distinctive, athletic silhouette, setting it apart from your typical boxy SUVs. It's a head-turner, no doubt! This model year was particularly significant because it marked the introduction of this coupe-SUV hybrid concept in the GLE lineup. Mercedes-Benz aimed to capture a new audience: those who wanted the space and versatility of an SUV but craved the design and driving dynamics of a coupe. And honestly, they did a pretty fantastic job. The design is a bold move, and it's something that really sets this car apart. It screams luxury and performance from every angle, starting from its aggressive front fascia with its signature diamond-block grille, bold headlights, and a muscular stance, right down to the elegantly sculpted rear. The 2016 model year introduced the GLE name, replacing the M-Class, and the 450 Coupe was a key player in this rebrand, offering a sportier alternative to the traditional GLE SUV.

The GLE 450 Coupe perfectly embodies the blend of functionality and style. The vehicle's aerodynamic profile is a significant factor in enhancing its sporty character. While the sloping roof does impact rear headroom, it greatly contributes to the sleek, coupe-like appearance. The designers have paid great attention to the details, from the carefully crafted lines on the body panels to the integrated spoiler, further enhancing its aerodynamic efficiency. Inside, the GLE 450 Coupe boasts a luxurious interior, featuring high-quality materials such as premium leather, wood trim, and metallic accents. It creates a refined and comfortable driving environment. Furthermore, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 Coupe stands out for its technological prowess, equipped with Mercedes-Benz's latest infotainment and driver-assistance systems. These enhancements further elevate the driving experience, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and advanced technology. The exterior design, with its coupe-like roofline, along with the luxury touches, contributes to a very nice overall appearance. The GLE 450 Coupe is an interesting and attractive choice in its segment.

2016 Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe Specs and Performance: Power and Precision

Alright, let's talk about what's under the hood. The 2016 Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, that cranks out a solid 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a smooth-shifting 9G-Tronic automatic transmission, which sends power to all four wheels via Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. This combination allows the GLE 450 Coupe to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.6 seconds. That's pretty quick for a vehicle of its size! And the power delivery is remarkably responsive. The engine provides ample power for both city driving and highway cruising, and the transmission ensures smooth gear changes. The 4MATIC system offers excellent grip and stability, especially in less-than-ideal weather conditions. It enhances the car's handling capabilities, making it feel planted and secure on the road.

When it comes to handling, the GLE 450 Coupe offers a sporty driving experience. The suspension is tuned to provide a balance between comfort and performance. The steering is precise, and the car feels agile for its size. The ride is generally comfortable, though you might feel some bumps on rougher roads due to the sport-tuned suspension. The engine's responsiveness and the transmission's smooth shifts make it a pleasure to drive, whether you're accelerating on the highway or navigating city streets. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system greatly contributes to its impressive handling and stability. The suspension and steering are well-tuned, and the car feels planted and secure. Overall, the GLE 450 Coupe offers a dynamic and engaging driving experience.

Moreover, the GLE 450 Coupe's performance isn't just about speed; it's about the entire driving experience. The engine's smooth power delivery, the transmission's seamless shifts, and the all-wheel-drive system's grip all contribute to a feeling of control and confidence behind the wheel. The car is also equipped with various driving modes, allowing you to tailor the driving experience to your preferences. Whether you want a more comfortable ride or a sportier feel, the GLE 450 Coupe can adapt to your needs. This makes it suitable for a variety of driving scenarios. This car is no slouch! It's got the power to get you where you need to go with a little bit of flair.

Interior Elegance: Exploring the 2016 GLE 450 Coupe Interior

Step inside, and you'll immediately notice the luxury. The interior of the 2016 Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe is a showcase of high-quality materials and impeccable craftsmanship. You'll find premium leather upholstery, real wood trim, and metallic accents throughout the cabin. The seats are supportive and comfortable, and the overall design is both stylish and functional. The dashboard is clean and well-laid out, with easy-to-reach controls and a user-friendly infotainment system. The spacious cabin is designed with the driver and passengers in mind, offering a comfortable and luxurious experience. The use of premium materials, such as leather, wood, and metallic accents, elevates the ambiance of the cabin.

The front seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom, providing a comfortable driving position. The rear seats, while offering less headroom due to the sloping roofline, are still suitable for adults. The cargo space is also generous, making it practical for everyday use. One of the highlights is the infotainment system. The 2016 GLE 450 Coupe features Mercedes-Benz's COMAND system, which includes a central display screen, a rotary controller, and various connectivity features. The system allows you to control audio, navigation, and other vehicle functions with ease. The screen is clear and responsive, and the overall user experience is intuitive. Furthermore, the interior of the GLE 450 Coupe is equipped with a host of other features, such as dual-zone climate control, a premium sound system, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies. These features enhance the overall driving experience and contribute to the luxurious feel of the cabin.

Beyond the luxurious materials, the interior also boasts a variety of advanced features and technologies. The infotainment system is packed with connectivity options, including Bluetooth, smartphone integration, and navigation. The sound system is impressive, delivering rich and immersive audio quality. And the driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, add an extra layer of safety and convenience. The interior's design is both stylish and functional, creating a luxurious and comfortable environment for both the driver and the passengers. You can expect to be surrounded by premium materials, comfortable seating, and a host of advanced features that enhance the overall driving experience.

Exterior Design: A Bold Statement on Wheels

The exterior of the 2016 Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe is where the car truly makes a statement. As we've mentioned, the sloping roofline is the defining feature, giving it a sporty and dynamic look. The overall design is sleek and muscular, with a prominent front grille, sculpted body panels, and a stylish rear end. The car's design cues are drawn from a combination of SUV practicality and coupe-like aesthetics. The result is a vehicle that looks both rugged and refined. The front fascia of the GLE 450 Coupe is characterized by its bold grille and stylish headlights. These elements contribute to the car's aggressive and sophisticated appearance. The sculpted body panels add to the vehicle's dynamic look.

The rear end of the GLE 450 Coupe is equally impressive, with its sleek taillights and integrated spoiler. These features enhance the car's aerodynamic efficiency and further contribute to its sporty appeal. The overall design is a testament to Mercedes-Benz's commitment to creating vehicles that are both beautiful and functional. The exterior design incorporates practical features, such as ample ground clearance and a spacious cargo area, making it suitable for a variety of driving scenarios. The exterior design is not just about looks; it also plays a key role in enhancing the car's performance and efficiency. The sleek and aerodynamic design helps to reduce wind resistance, which can improve fuel economy and performance. The sloping roofline, although impacting rear headroom, contributes significantly to the car's sporty character. The exterior is all about making a statement, and this car does it with style and grace. The exterior design helps define its unique personality.

Driving Experience: Behind the Wheel of the GLE 450 Coupe

So, what's it like to actually drive the 2016 Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe? Well, it's a joy. The engine provides plenty of power for any situation, whether you're merging onto the highway or navigating city streets. The transmission is smooth and responsive, ensuring a comfortable driving experience. The steering is precise, and the car feels agile for its size. The ride is generally comfortable, although you might feel some bumps on rougher roads due to the sport-tuned suspension. The driving experience is enhanced by the car's 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The system provides excellent grip and stability, especially in challenging weather conditions.

The GLE 450 Coupe also offers a range of driving modes, allowing you to tailor the driving experience to your preferences. Whether you want a more comfortable ride or a sportier feel, the car can adapt to your needs. This makes it suitable for a variety of driving scenarios. The interior of the GLE 450 Coupe contributes to the driving experience. The comfortable seats, the user-friendly infotainment system, and the advanced driver-assistance features all work together to create a luxurious and convenient driving environment. The car's performance, handling, and comfort make it a pleasure to drive, while the advanced features and technology enhance the overall experience. The combination of power, handling, and comfort makes the GLE 450 Coupe a great vehicle for both daily commutes and longer journeys.

Features and Technology: What Comes Standard?

The 2016 Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe comes packed with features. Standard equipment includes:

Infotainment: COMAND system with an 8-inch display, navigation, Bluetooth, and smartphone integration.
Safety: A rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.
Comfort: Leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a power liftgate.
Performance: 4MATIC all-wheel drive, a sport-tuned suspension, and selectable driving modes.

You can also find a lot of optional extras, like a premium sound system, adaptive cruise control, and a panoramic sunroof. It's safe to say you're getting a lot of bang for your buck with this car. The COMAND system gives you access to a wide range of features. The safety features provide peace of mind on the road. The comfort features make every drive a pleasure. And the performance features enhance the driving experience.

Price and Value: Is the GLE 450 Coupe Worth It?

Okay, let's talk about the price. When it was new, the 2016 Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe had a starting price of around $65,000. Now, depending on the condition, mileage, and options, you can find them used for somewhere in the range of $30,000 to $50,000. Considering the luxury, performance, and features you get, it's a solid value. Of course, the price can vary significantly depending on the specific vehicle and its features, the car is in a very good segment. But, if you're looking for a stylish, well-equipped, and fun-to-drive SUV-coupe, the GLE 450 Coupe is definitely worth considering. It offers a combination of luxury, performance, and technology that's hard to beat. The long-term ownership costs, including maintenance and fuel, should also be factored in, but overall, the GLE 450 Coupe offers good value for money.

Competitors: How Does the GLE 450 Coupe Stack Up?

The 2016 Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe competes with a few other luxury SUV-coupes. Its main rivals include the BMW X6, the Porsche Cayenne Coupe, and the Range Rover Sport. Each of these vehicles has its own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW X6 is known for its sporty driving dynamics. The Porsche Cayenne Coupe offers exceptional performance and handling. And the Range Rover Sport is celebrated for its off-road capabilities and luxurious interior.

The GLE 450 Coupe stands out for its blend of style, performance, and technology. It offers a comfortable ride, a luxurious interior, and a user-friendly infotainment system. When compared to the X6, the GLE 450 Coupe often offers a more balanced approach, combining both luxury and sportiness effectively. Compared to the Cayenne Coupe, the GLE 450 Coupe might be seen as slightly less focused on outright performance, but it provides a more comfortable daily driving experience. Compared to the Range Rover Sport, the GLE 450 Coupe offers a more modern design and a more tech-focused interior. Choosing between these models depends on your individual preferences and priorities.

Is the 2016 Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe a Good Car? The Verdict

So, is the 2016 Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe a good car? Absolutely! It's a stylish, luxurious, and fun-to-drive vehicle that offers a great blend of performance and practicality. It's perfect for those who want the space and versatility of an SUV but don't want to sacrifice style and driving dynamics. The combination of its sporty design, powerful engine, luxurious interior, and advanced technology makes it a compelling choice in the luxury SUV-coupe segment. While it may not be the most practical SUV on the market, it certainly makes a statement and provides a rewarding driving experience. If you're looking for something that stands out from the crowd, this car is for you. Overall, the 2016 Mercedes GLE 450 Coupe is a well-rounded vehicle that deserves a closer look if you're in the market for a luxury SUV-coupe. It's a great choice, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and technology that's hard to beat. If you want something stylish and fun to drive, then go for it!