Gebrauchtwagen-Check: Schwerwiegender Luxus: Mercedes ML und GLE beim TÜV

The Mercedes-Benz GLE, formerly known as the ML, is a luxury SUV packed with amenities such as air suspension, massage seats, surround sound, and various assistance features. The base engine produces 258 PS. According to the "Auto Bild TÜV Report 2026," the large SUV has an "outstanding longevity." However, the report also highlights its limitations.

The third-generation M-Class (W 166) was launched in 2011 and marketed as the GLE from 2015. The fourth generation of this model series entered the market in 2019 (W 167). Mercedes underwent model refreshes in 2023 and early 2026. The vehicles are large and heavy, classified as fifth-generation SUVs. The AMG 63 and AMG 63 S are the top models.

There are also plug-in hybrids available in combination with a conventional engine and, unusually, a diesel engine. The dimensions of the vehicles (according to ADAC) are as follows: W 166 - 4.82 m to 4.85 m in length, 1.94 m to 1.97 m in width, and 1.76 m to 1.80 m in height; cargo volume ranges from 690 l to 2,010 l (Coupé: 650 l to 1,720 l).

The W 167 has dimensions of 4.92 m to 4.94 m in length, 1.95 m to 2.02 m in width, and 1.77 m to 1.78 m in height; cargo volume ranges from 490 l to 2,055 l (Coupé: 505 l to 1,645 l). The strengths include a durable chassis and a lack of rust, with very few issues in terms of lighting. Brake line and brake hose complaints are almost nonexistent, which is surprising given the vehicle's weight.

Weaknesses include above-average defect rates for the front suspension and steering in the newer W 167 models after three and five years of service. Significant oil leaks are primarily observed in older W 166 vehicles after the fourth HU, and the vehicle often rattles in the exhaust test after ten years. The ADAC Pannenstatistik (accident statistics) ranks the large Mercedes SUV as "reliable," with the generator being the sole point of failure for 2017 models.

Older vehicles have no values provided by the ADAC. The engines offer a range of options, including gasoline (V6 and V8, both front and rear-wheel drive), diesel (inline-four and V6, both front and rear-wheel drive), and plug-in hybrids (all-wheel drive). The W 166 is available with a 185 kW/252 PS gasoline engine or a 150 kW/204 PS diesel engine; the W 167 offers a 190 kW/258 PS gasoline engine or a 180 kW/245 PS diesel engine, along with plug-in hybrid options.

According to the Deutsche Automobil Treuhand (DAT), the resale value after accounting for expected mileage varies, with a few examples priced at 17,278 Euro for a 150 kW/204 PS gasoline model and 78,010 Euro for a 400 kW/544 PS plug-in hybrid version.