Despite different names and manufacturing locations, as well as conflicts with another automaker, the currently titled Mercedes-Benz GLE series has been around for 27 years and counting. The 2024 GLE 450 represents the midsize luxury crossover sport utility segment at its best.

The two-row, five-passenger family hauler is slotted between the smaller GLC and the larger GLS, and shares platforms with the latter in the manufacturer’s trio of vehicles offered to keep up with the ever-increasing popularity of SUVs.

Formerly designated with M-Class nomenclature, the manufacturer began using the GLE name in 2015 after BMW complained. It felt Mercedes-Benz using M-Class designation was too similar to its high-performance M Series, which began with its racing division in 1972.

The GLE was originally made in Germany, then for four years in Austria for European distribution. Since 2015, the SUV has been made in Alabama.

With a handsome exterior and spacious, well-designed interior, the GLE 450 features a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Also new for 2024 is the GLE 400e 4Matic, a plug-in hybrid, which adds another strong option to the current generation of the SUV that debuted in 2020.

While not a new generation, the 2024 model sees several changes and upgrades. The interior design and materials now are reminiscent of the uber-luxurious, up-market Mercedes-Maybach. Ambient lighting, chrome accents on air vents and black trim give the SUV extra touches of elegance. The GLE exterior styling also has been tweaked with a revised front bumper design, updated and restyled grille, lighting elements and restyled wheels.

Unless optional third-row seating is ordered, the GLE 450 is comfortable, with a good chunk of headroom and legroom for all involved. Some SUVs have problematic entry and exit; Mercedes-Benz addressed it with a side-step on both sides of the vehicle. Unfortunately, it’s static, narrow and awkwardly positioned—the platform offers more of an opportunity to get a foot stuck than to assist with entering or exiting. It’s the only subpar feature of the vehicle, which otherwise is an ideal example of what to do right in an SUV.

Plenty of choices are available in the luxury SUV segment, but several additional features help the GLE 450 to the front of the pack. Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is cable-free for the first time in 2024 models. A programmable height setting for the power tailgate is also new.

Convenience upgrades include digital assist. Say “Hey, Mercedes” and the voice command works well, if perhaps being too sensitive to any mention of Mercedes in a conversation. There’s also parking assist, which helps negotiate steering the vehicle in parallel and perpendicular spaces.

Further, there’s a welcome appeal to having a top-line audio system in a quiet car. The GLE represents the best of quiet SUVs, and features a 13-speaker Burmester offering. The 590-watt surround-sound system is enhanced with Dolby Atmos. It’s a worthwhile option in the regular models, and standard in the AMG lineup.

Throughout the lineup, safety considerations have always been a Mercedes-Benz signature. The GLE comes standard with automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. It’s also available with adaptive cruise control.

Considering the quality of the segment, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 does the marketplace well. It’s priced at the plateau, where buying one vehicle over another is more about personal choice and brand loyalty than nuance. Consumers loyal to Mercedes-Benz will remain so, and will not be disappointed with the new SUV. Newbies should give the vehicle strong consideration.

Facts & Figures

Acceleration: 0-60 mph, 5.3 seconds

Airbags: 7

Fuel economy: 19 mpg city, 26 mpg hwy

Horsepower: 375

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $63,800

Manufacturer’s website: mbusa.com

Warranty: Bumper to Bumper, 4 years/50,000 miles; Powertrain, 4 years/50,000 miles; Corrosion, 4 years/50,000 miles; Roadside Assistance, 4 years/50,000 miles