There's a lot to love about the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class. As the successor to the ML, the GLE is steeped in heritage and has been fine-tuned to be an ideal companion and mobility solution. The range of engines and options means that you can craft the perfect GLE to suit your tastes and needs, whether it's an off-road gravel eater or a highway cruiser.
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If you head over to the Mercedes-Benz website, you can sit with their configurator to see what options are available for you at the time of ordering. You will also see what these additions do and how much they will add to the purchase price. It's a great way to pass the time, get creative or ever spend imaginary money. We've been through it and this is how we would spec one for ourselves. We'll let you choose the engine though!
1. AMG Line exterior package
R49 800
The AMG Line exterior package is a must-have. Not only will it increase your resale value down the line, it looks the part too. This package will see a different front end, a sportier rear bumper and 20-inch wheels added to the mix.
2. Colour
R5 700
You get to choose from a few colours for your GLE, including the stunning Designo colour range. While the Designo is the pick of the litter, it's also the more expensive option. We like this Emerald Green Metallic option that costs R5 700 and gives the GLE a sense of purpose - it feels rugged and utilitarian. Plus, it's not that common.
3. Alloy Wheels
R25 700
While the AMG Line exterior package adds a set of 20-inch wheels to your vehicle, you can still choose to change out these wheels for something more to your liking. We've selected the 21-inch AMG multi-spoke wheels for this combination but you can go all the way up to colossal 22-inches if you like, or drop it down to 19-inches if you prefer a little more comfort.
4. Heat Insulating Tint
R7 300
It's a simple addition that is too often overlooked. Tinting your windows has several benefits including safety and security. The window film makes it harder for smash-and-grab attacks to take place and at night, perpetrators are unable to assess the number (or size) of the people onboard. This tint goes one step further by deflecting the sun's UV rays to help keep the interior cooler on those hot summer days.
5. Climate Seats
R22 700
Sticking with the cool theme, these climate-controlled seats may seem like overkill but trust us, it's worth it. These seats not only offer heating for the warm summer months but they include ventilation that will plumb ice-cold air to your back and legs in the hot summer month. No more sticking to the leather, this is the ultimate solution.
6. Anthracite Open Pore Trim
R7 800
No matter what upholstery trim you choose (we've selected the beige interior because we're strange like that) you'll want to select one of the open pore options for the trims. The Anthracite Open Pore Trim option sees swathes of lush wood panelling embrace the interior of the GLE. It adds a depth and texture that is unbeatable.
7. Driver Assist Package
R40 000
Another expensive option, but one worth specifying. The Driver Assistance package sees the GLE fitted with Active Distronic and Steering Assist. This will allow the GLE to remain between the lines and remains a set distance from the vehicle in front. It includes blind-spot monitoring and emergency braking assist. A small price to pay for the safety and convenience.
8. Wireless Charging
R3 600
On the cheaper end of the spectrum is wireless charging for the front of the GLE. This addition will allow you to keep your smartphone charged simply by placing it in the tray. This effective way of inductively charging your phone will ensure that you never sit with a dead phone battery and negates the necessity for messy cables.
9. Adaptive High Beam
No Cost
That's right, this super effective and handy addition will not cost you a thing! All you need to do is ask for it when you order your car. The Active Highbeam Assist will allow you to drive with your brights on and not have to worry about dazzling traffic ahead of you as they will automatically detect traffic and adjust themselves accordingly.
10. HUD
R19 600
This is another one of those that will make you wonder how you ever lived without it. The GLE has the option of being fitted with a head-up display that will be able to show you vital information on the windscreen, helping you keep your eyes on the road and reducing fatigue. It will show you speed, notification, navigation information and a host of other vital info.
