The GLE 450 is the six-cylinder version of Mercedes’ mid-size SUV, with a 375-hp turbocharged inline-six, 4MATIC all-wheel drive and a 2026 price from $72,250 before destination, according to Edmunds. It is about $7,500 more than the four-cylinder GLE 350 4MATIC and noticeably quicker.
Below we cover the 2026 price, specs, towing, fuel economy and recall history, and answer whether it is worth paying extra over the GLE 350.
Mercedes GLE 450: quick answer
- Price: $72,250 before destination (Edmunds); $73,500 with destination (Kelley Blue Book)
- Engine: 3.0L turbo inline-six, mild hybrid, 375 hp and 369 lb-ft
- 0–60 mph: 5.3 seconds
- Fuel economy: 19 city / 25 highway / 21 combined
- Towing: up to 7,700 lb when equipped
2026 specs
| Spec | GLE 450 4MATIC |
|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $72,250 (excl. destination) |
| Engine | 3.0L turbo inline-6, 48-volt mild hybrid |
| Power / torque | 375 hp / 369 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph | 5.3 seconds |
| EPA mpg | 19/25/21 |
| Length | 194.3 in |
| Cargo | 33.3 cu ft behind second row; 74.9 cu ft max |
| Seats | 5, or 7 with the $2,100 third-row package |
| Towing | Up to 7,700 lb |
Source: Edmunds 2026 GLE specifications.
How much does a Mercedes GLE 450 cost?
Edmunds lists the 2026 GLE 450 4MATIC from $72,250 before destination, and Kelley Blue Book lists $73,500 including it. The plug-in hybrid GLE 450e costs the same $73,500 on KBB, so you choose between more power or electric driving at the same price.
Is the GLE 450 better than the GLE 350?
| Spec | GLE 350 4MATIC | GLE 450 4MATIC |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Edmunds, excl. destination) | $64,750 | $72,250 |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder | 3.0L turbo 6-cylinder |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph | About 6.9 seconds (dealer estimate) | 5.3 seconds |
| Combined mpg | 22 | 21 |
For $7,500 more, the GLE 450 is more than a second quicker to 60 mph, smoother and better for towing, while using only 1 mpg more fuel. If you tow or drive long distances, the six-cylinder is worth it. If you mainly drive around town, the GLE 350 is enough. See our GLE 350 4MATIC guide.
Is the GLE 450 a V6?
No. It uses a 3.0-liter inline-six, with all six cylinders in a straight line rather than a V, plus a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that helps with smooth starts and stop-start.
GLE 450 vs GLE 450e plug-in hybrid
The GLE 450e swaps the six-cylinder for a 2.0-liter four-cylinder plus an electric motor, making 381 hp. CarGurus rates it at 60 MPGe with up to 50 miles of electric range. If you can charge at home and drive short distances, the 450e can run on electricity most days for the same price.
Recall history by model year
We checked the NHTSA recall database for campaigns that list the GLE 450:
| Model year | NHTSA recall campaigns |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 32 |
| 2021 | 17 |
| 2022 | 11 |
| 2023 | 4 |
| 2024 | 4 |
Source: NHTSA recalls database, November 2026. Counts include campaigns shared with other Mercedes models.
The 2020 model, the first year of this generation, had by far the most recalls. If you are buying used, a 2023 or newer GLE 450 has had far fewer, and you should always check the VIN for open recalls. Our most reliable Mercedes SUV guide compares every model.
Is the GLE 450 a good car?
Yes. Edmunds rates the GLE range 7.9 out of 10 for its quiet, well-equipped cabin and wide engine choice, and Kelley Blue Book gives the 2026 GLE an expert rating of 4.4 out of 5. The six-cylinder is widely seen as the best engine in the range for everyday driving.
Should you buy a GLE 450?
Buy the GLE 450 if you want a smooth, powerful family SUV that can tow up to 7,700 lb. Choose the GLE 350 to save $7,500, the 450e if you can charge at home, or the AMG GLE 53 if you want more speed; see our GLE 53 AMG guide.
Mercedes GLE 450 FAQs
How much does a GLE 450 cost?
From $72,250 before destination for 2026, or $73,500 with it.
Is the GLE 450 a good car?
Yes. It scores 4.4 out of 5 from Kelley Blue Book’s experts and is the most popular engine choice for buyers who tow or drive long distances.
What engine is in it?
A 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, making 375 hp.
How much can it tow?
Up to 7,700 lb when properly equipped, according to Edmunds.
Does it have a third row?
It is optional, as a $2,100 package with two small seats.
Related reads
- Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 4MATIC: 2026 Price, Specs, Problems and Best Years
- GLE 53 AMG: 2026 Price, Specs, 0–60 and Is It Worth It?
- GLE vs GLS: 2026 Price, Size, Third Row and Which to Buy
- Most Reliable Mercedes SUV
For more Mercedes SUV guides, visit MercedesSUV.com.