The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 d 4matic gets 25 MPG combined, not an award-winning number, but respectable for a mid-size luxury SUV with a diesel engine and all-wheel drive. No one buys this GLE to save fuel. They buy it for the image, the interior, and the safety features, and the strong power from its torquey diesel. The fuel economy is a factor they accept, and 25 MPG makes that easier.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 23 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. These are best-case numbers when driving efficiently. The 23 MPG city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, showing the diesel’s ability to be reasonably economical even with passengers and cargo. The 29 MPG highway rating is where the GLE350 d 4matic excels, making it a good choice for road trips where the cabin and ride are comfortable. If you are considering other Mercedes-Benz options, browse all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data to compare across the lineup.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 d 4matic at $2,250. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This serves as a benchmark for your budget; expect to spend around that amount annually, but your actual cost may vary depending on your driving and local fuel prices. Diesel fuel prices can also change a lot compared to regular gasoline.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures are a useful baseline, but your fuel economy will vary. Factors like driving style, terrain, weather, and cargo weight significantly affect it. If you accelerate quickly or live in a hilly area, expect your MPG to be lower than the EPA estimates. Conversely, careful driving and flat highway miles can get you closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA’s 29 MPG.

Tire pressure and maintenance are also critical for good fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2016 GLE350 d 4matic had competition in the mid-size luxury SUV class. The gasoline-powered GLE350 4matic from the same year gets only 20 MPG combined. The BMW X5 xDrive35d also gets around 25 MPG combined with its diesel engine, though some report higher highway numbers. The Acura MDX, with its gasoline V6, delivers around 22 MPG combined. The Lexus RX 350 offers about the same. Choosing between these often depends on things other than fuel economy; brand, tech, and ride quality often matter to buyers more than a few MPG. Before you decide, compare GLE350 MPG across all years to see how it changes.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate gently to maximize fuel economy with the GLE350 d 4matic. Avoid fast starts and hard braking. The diesel engine has torque at low RPMs, so there’s no need to rev it high when accelerating. Use that low-end power and let the automatic transmission shift smoothly.

Keep your tires inflated to the correct pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which increases fuel consumption. Check your tire pressure regularly, every few weeks, and inflate them to the recommended pressure on the driver’s side door jamb.

Reduce weight. Extra cargo reduces fuel economy. Remove anything from your vehicle that isn’t needed, from golf clubs to extra luggage. The less the engine has to move, the less fuel you’ll use.

Don’t idle. Idling uses fuel without going anywhere. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern diesel engines are made for frequent starts, so you don’t have to worry about wear.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control keeps a constant speed, which helps fuel efficiency. Avoid accelerating or decelerating suddenly while using cruise control. Smooth, steady speed is the most efficient way to travel.