22 MPG combined. That’s the number you can expect from the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 equipped with the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. While it’s not going to win any hypermiling contests, it is a figure that most GLE350 buyers find acceptable, primarily because they prioritize luxury, advanced technology, and the prestige associated with the Mercedes-Benz brand over outright fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

The GLE350’s fuel economy breaks down to 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the GLE350’s weight and the engine’s need to spool up the turbocharger can impact fuel consumption. The highway figure is considerably better, thanks to the smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission that allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs, reducing fuel burn. The GLE350 is more at home on long highway stretches, aligning well with its intended use as a comfortable and capable long-distance cruiser.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 2.0L 4-cyl is $2,650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices, which fluctuate, of course. Keep in mind that premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance, so that cost may be higher depending on local fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

Official EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, but real-world fuel economy can vary significantly based on driving style, road conditions, and vehicle maintenance. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and carrying heavy loads can all negatively impact MPG. Conversely, employing a gentle driving style, maintaining proper tire inflation, and keeping up with scheduled maintenance can help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Weather conditions also play a role; cold weather, in particular, can reduce fuel economy due to increased engine friction and the use of energy-intensive features like heated seats and defrosters. Drivers looking at GLE350 MPG across all years should also consider that driving habits are the largest influence on real-world fuel economy.

How it compares

In the competitive mid-size luxury SUV segment, the GLE350’s fuel economy places it roughly in the middle of the pack. The BMW X5 sDrive40i, with its 3.0L inline-six, achieves a slightly better 23 MPG combined, while the Acura MDX with its 3.5L V6 gets around 22 MPG combined, matching the GLE350. The Volvo XC90 B5, benefitting from its mild-hybrid system, also achieves 22 MPG combined. Fuel-conscious buyers might consider the Lexus RX 450h hybrid, which boasts significantly better fuel economy at 31 MPG combined, although it offers a different driving experience. For buyers weighing their options across all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, these differences in MPG become real-world trade-offs with other qualities, and the Mercedes customer is frequently willing to give up a small amount of MPG for a more premium experience.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given the GLE350’s turbocharged engine, avoiding aggressive acceleration is key to improving fuel economy. The turbocharger, while providing ample power when needed, consumes more fuel when it’s actively boosting. Accelerate smoothly and gradually to avoid unnecessarily engaging the turbo.

Tire pressure is another easy win. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer-recommended pressure, which can be found on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Use the GLE350’s driving modes strategically. The “Comfort” mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by optimizing throttle response and transmission shift points. Reserve “Sport” mode for situations where you need extra power, as it holds gears longer and increases throttle sensitivity, both of which increase fuel consumption.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The GLE350’s automatic start-stop system can help with this in city driving.

Cruise control on the highway can help maintain a consistent speed, which improves fuel economy compared to fluctuating speeds. However, be mindful of hills, as cruise control can sometimes downshift aggressively to maintain speed, impacting fuel consumption. Use cruise control on relatively flat stretches of highway.