Mercedes-Benz GLE Price Cut: What You Need to Know

The Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV has recently undergone a significant pricing shift, particularly for its entry-level variant, the GLE 300d 4Matic. This move has resulted in a $12,000 reduction, bringing the starting price down to $134,900 before on-road costs. However, despite this price cut, the GLE remains $35,000 more expensive than it was just four years ago when the current generation was introduced to Australian showrooms.

Pricing and Features

The new pricing structure has been implemented alongside adjustments to the standard features available in the GLE 300d. According to Mercedes-Benz Australia, these changes were made in response to customer feedback, aiming to offer greater flexibility and personalization options when configuring vehicles.

While the entry-level GLE now comes with a lower price tag, it’s essential to note that several previously standard features have transitioned to optional extras. For instance:

• Upholstery: The GLE now features Artico synthetic leather as standard, with genuine leather available at an additional cost of $2,900 for black and $3,300 for macchiato beige/black or bahia brown/black.
• Wheels: The 21-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke wheels, which were standard, are now an option priced at $2,300. Buyers can choose a standard black set of 20-inch alloys or opt for 22-inch wheels for an extra $3,900.
• Running Boards: The illuminated aluminium-look running boards have also moved to the options list, starting at $1,300.

With these adjustments, if buyers choose to include all previously standard features, the price of the GLE 300d is still $6,500 lower than it was before these changes were implemented.

Performance and Specifications

Under the hood, the GLE 300d is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that delivers 198 kW of power and 550 Nm of torque. The vehicle features a nine-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels, achieving a fuel consumption of 6.6 L/100 km. Notably, the addition of a 48-volt mild-hybrid system enhances performance and efficiency, a feature that wasn’t available when the model first launched.

Sales Trends

Despite its strong reputation as one of Mercedes-Benz’s best-selling models in Australia—behind only the smaller GLC and GLA, as well as the A-Class and C-Class—the GLE SUV has faced challenges in the market. Sales figures indicate a staggering 45.7 percent drop in GLE SUV sales from January to September this year, while overall deliveries for Mercedes-Benz have decreased by 19 percent.

Conclusion

The price cut on the Mercedes-Benz GLE 300d presents an interesting opportunity for potential buyers looking for a luxury SUV at a more accessible price point. However, the adjustments to standard features may require buyers to consider their needs carefully to ensure they configure a vehicle that meets their expectations. As the market evolves and competition intensifies, the GLE will need to continue adapting to maintain its place among Australia’s preferred luxury SUVs.