Mercedes-Benz of Latham · The GLE decision
Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 vs. GLE 450 vs. GLE 580
Four cylinders, six cylinders or a V8. Find the GLE that fits what you want from the drive.
Which GLE should you choose?
The GLE 350 is the four-cylinder starting point, the GLE 450 adds an inline-six, and the GLE 580 brings V8 power. For the U.S. 2027 lineup, all three use 4MATIC all-wheel drive and mild-hybrid assistance without plug-in charging.
Start with the GLE 350 if your priority is getting into a GLE. Compare the GLE 450 if stronger acceleration matters to you. Put the GLE 580 on your list if a V8 is part of what you want from your next SUV.
By Mercedes-Benz of Latham · U.S. specifications checked October 14, 2026
GLE 350 vs. GLE 450 vs. GLE 580: the numbers
| Specification | GLE 350 4MATIC | GLE 450 4MATIC | GLE 580 4MATIC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gasoline engine | 2.0L turbo inline-four | 3.0L turbo inline-six | 4.0L turbo V8 |
| Engine horsepower | 255 hp | 375 hp | 530 hp announced |
| Engine torque | 295 lb-ft | 413 lb-ft | 553 lb-ft announced |
| Hybrid system | 48V mild hybrid | 48V mild hybrid | 48V mild hybrid |
| Plug-in charging | No | No | No |
| All-wheel drive | 4MATIC | 4MATIC | 4MATIC |
| Third row | Not listed for the 2027 GLE 350 | Optional; confirm the vehicle | Optional in the announced lineup; confirm the vehicle |
Horsepower and torque above describe the gasoline engines. Do not add the starter-generator’s temporary assistance to calculate a combined rating. Specifications and equipment vary by model year.
Choose the engine around the way you drive.
01
GLE 350: start here
If you want the GLE’s size and seating position, begin with the 350. Use the test drive to decide whether its response feels right for your commute, errands and highway trips. Compare equipment before assuming a higher engine badge is necessary.
02
GLE 450: the next step
The 2027 GLE 450 adds 120 hp and 118 lb-ft over the 350. It is a sensible next comparison if you like the GLE but want more power in reserve. Try both on the same route so the difference is easy to judge.
03
GLE 580: the V8 choice
The announced 2027 GLE 580 adds another 155 hp over the 450. Choose it because you want the V8 experience, then compare the exact suspension, wheels and comfort equipment. A bigger engine alone does not tell you how the whole vehicle will feel.
Need a third row? Check the configuration.
Passenger needs can narrow the decision before horsepower does. Mercedes-Benz currently lists an optional third row for the 2027 GLE 450 and GLE 580, rather than the GLE 350.
An available third row is not a standard third row. Confirm it on the actual vehicle, then try the access and seating space with the passengers who will use it.
Bring your everyday cargo.
Fit your stroller, sports bags or travel cases with the seats arranged the way you expect to use them. If you regularly carry more passengers, compare the GLE with the larger GLS before deciding.
Compare the complete vehicle.
For a drive from Latham into Albany or a longer trip up the Northway, the seat, wheel-and-tire setup and installed options matter alongside engine output. Compare those items on the window stickers, then drive the closest matches.
The 350, 450 and 580 in this guide are mild hybrids. If regular electric driving and home charging are priorities, explore our Mercedes-Benz hybrid SUV comparison. For the redesign itself, read what changes on the 2027 GLE.
Your questions, answered.
Is the GLE 450 more powerful than the GLE 350?
Yes. For the U.S. 2027 models, the GLE 450 has 375 hp and 413 lb-ft, compared with 255 hp and 295 lb-ft for the GLE 350.
Does the GLE 580 have a V8?
Yes. Mercedes-Benz has announced a 4.0-liter turbo V8 with 530 hp and 553 lb-ft for the 2027 GLE 580. The 2026 model has different output, so verify the model year.
Are the GLE 350, 450 and 580 plug-in hybrids?
No. The 2027 models compared here use 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance and do not plug in. The GLE plug-in hybrid lineup is separate.
Does every GLE have seven seats?
No. Mercedes-Benz lists an optional third row for the 2027 GLE 450 and GLE 580. Confirm the seating configuration on the specific vehicle; do not assume it is included.
Mercedes-Benz of Latham
Find your GLE in Latham.
Tell us what you want from your next SUV. We can help you compare specific vehicles, equipment and current availability.
1111 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 12110
518-586-5716
