When it comes to building big, lavish SUVs that command space and attention, count on the Germans to do it with gusto.
The locally-assembled V167 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4Matic AMG Line is a prime example of that ethos — a seven-seat carriage wrapped in luxury, layered in tech, and with a few quirks of its own.
Externally, the GLE 450 wears its mid-life refresh lightly but assuredly. The grille is now more assertive, framed by reshaped LED headlamps with distinctive daytime running light signatures.
At the rear, slimmer tail lamps and subtle bumper tweaks modernise the look.
It’s a blocky but balanced form — handsome in a square-jawed way — with just enough AMG flair to hint at performance without going full Brabus.
Step inside, and the cabin immediately feels like a lounge on wheels.
The layout is refreshingly symmetrical, unlike the swooping dashboard of its E-Class cousin. A full-length panoramic glass roof stretches above the second row, flooding the dark interior with light.
The textured black wood trim along the dashboard is a pleasant surprise — classy and fingerprint-proof, unlike those glossy smudge-magnets found elsewhere.
Seating is spacious for the first two rows. The driver can even adjust the front passenger seat, and both front and second-row seats are power-operated.
However, the third row tells a different story. It’s upright, tight, and more punishment than privilege for full-sized adults.
Clambering into the rearmost seats is a minor workout despite the motorised second row.
The GLE 450’s centre console blends traditional buttons with touchscreen controls. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work seamlessly (this tester’s Android phone connected instantly), and the wireless charging pad sits neatly in the storage compartment at the front of the centre console.
The MBUX infotainment system runs on its latest version available for the GLE — sharp graphics, quick responses, and integrated augmented-reality navigation.
There are multiple USB-C ports, and large door pockets that fit 1.5-litre bottles make them practical for daily use, whether it’s water or your favourite iced drink.
Curiously, the Malaysian GLE 450 comes with heated — but not ventilated — seats. That’s a head-scratcher in our tropical climate. Sure, it’s bundled in a global spec pack, but a bit of localisation would’ve gone a long way in justifying the half-a-million ringgit price.
Under the bonnet lies a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six paired with a 48V integrated starter-generator (ISG). It produces 375hp and 500Nm, delivering brisk acceleration for something weighing north of two tonnes.
Mercedes claims a 0-100kph time of 5.6 seconds, and it certainly feels that quick in the right mode. But the drivetrain’s software could use some finessing.
More than once, it jolted during deceleration or lunged slightly in stop-go traffic. Refinement is there — just not consistently.
Ride quality is mostly plush, especially with the Airmatic suspension soaking up bumps. But Comfort mode is too soft, resulting in a barge-like float over undulating roads.
Sport mode firms things up considerably, making the GLE 450 feel more in control without turning harsh. Body roll is well managed; credit goes to the pneumatic suspension, which keeps this tall SUV surprisingly flat through corners.
Grip levels are impressive thanks to staggered 21-inch Continental SportContact 6 tyres — 275s up front, 315s at the rear. They plant the car firmly, though the staggered setup isn’t rotation-friendly and will eventually bite you at the tyre shop.
That said, the stability they offer during fast bends is reassuring, and Mercedes’ claim of better weight distribution with the air suspension seems to hold up.
The GLE 450 does well in the comfort department overall. Road noise is well suppressed, the second-row seats offer great thigh support (save for the middle perch), and the 4-zone climate control ensures passengers across all three rows remain cool and composed.
Still, the third-row remains an occasional-use-only zone — cramped, with a knees-up seating position and limited headroom.
Safety-wise, the facelift introduces Parking Package with 360° camera, Active Steering Assist, and Emergency Braking Assist.
You also get blind spot monitoring, stability control, and a host of passive systems. Rear door handles double as unlock triggers — a thoughtful convenience.
There’s high-strength steel shielding the underbody. Useful if you’re chased by robbers and decide to off-road through palm oil estates — unlikely, but comforting.
Open the powered tailgate and you’ll find a massive boot. With the third row down, you can nearly fit a small piano. Buttons in the cargo bay let you fold the second row flat, creating an expansive, flat load floor.
There’s no spare tyre — just a repair kit — in the name of weight savings.
Entertainment? Top notch.
The Burmester hi-fi system fills the cabin with crisp, detailed sound. Whether you’re streaming via Spotify or playing FLACs off a USB drive, it’s a setup deserving of long drives.
So, is it worth RM545K? That depends.
The GLE 450 is generously equipped, comfortable, and has road presence in spades.
But it also comes with a few quirks — heated seats you’ll rarely use, a transmission that occasionally fumbles, and a third row best left to children.
Cross-shoppers might find rivals from BMW or Volvo a better fit for their needs.
But few match the GLE 450’s blend of understated elegance and road authority.
So, final word? The GLE 450 is refined, powerful, spacious and loaded. It’s got presence, pedigree, and enough clever bits to make you feel smug in traffic. But it’s not perfect.
Those looking for a seven-seater SUV with proper luxury chops and a regal presence will find the GLE 450 ticks most of the boxes.
Just be sure rearmost passengers are under 12 or exceptionally flexible.
Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4Matic AMG Line (CKD)
Engine: 2,999cc inline six, turbocharged petrol with direct injection
Maximum power: 375hp at 5,800rpm
Maximum torque: 500Nm at 1,800rpm
Single motor: 20hp/200Nm
Battery type/capacity: Li-ion/0.9kWh
Transmission: 9G-Tronic automatic
Features: 7 airbags, all-wheel drive, full LED headlamps and tail lamps, auto start/stop, paddle shifters, 5 drive modes, 360-degree parking camera, Driving Assistance Plus package, Active Brake Assist, lane-keeping assist with steering correction, Offroad Package, 21-inch staggered wheels, 40:20:40 split folding rear seats, autonomous emergency braking, panoramic sliding roof, adaptive cruise control, rear-door window shades, 4-zone climate control, AMG body styling and sport brake system
Suspension: Multi-link with air suspension, all-round
Acceleration (0-100kph): 5.6s
Top speed: 250kph
Kerb weight: 2,220kg
Boot capacity: 630l
Towing capacity: 1,650kg
Price: RM544,888 (OTR without insurance)
