22 MPG combined might not sound like a victory, but for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE350, it’s a reasonable compromise. This isn’t a compact hatchback; it’s a mid-size luxury SUV designed to coddle its occupants in comfort, offer a commanding view of the road, and project a certain image. Buyers aren’t necessarily hyper-focused on fuel consumption, but seek a balance between lavish appointments, everyday practicality, and acceptable running costs. They are willing to trade a few MPGs for the three-pointed star and the driving experience it promises.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the GLE350 at 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go traffic conditions the vehicle will likely encounter during commutes and errands. The highway number is more achievable during longer road trips, thanks to the nine-speed automatic transmission which allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs. The highway MPG will drop significantly if you’re frequently accelerating to overtake or regularly driving above posted speed limits.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE350 2.0L 4-cyl at $2,650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Fuel costs can fluctuate depending on your geographic location and driving habits. Aggressive driving, excessive idling, and neglecting proper vehicle maintenance can all negatively impact your fuel expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized rating, real-world fuel economy can vary. Owners report figures that fall within a few MPG of the EPA estimates, if they drive moderately. However, consistently driving in congested city conditions or frequently making short trips will likely yield lower numbers. Conversely, predominantly highway driving with minimal traffic can potentially exceed the EPA’s highway rating. Consider all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data as a guideline, but expect your personal experience to differ based on your particular driving style and environment.

How it compares

The GLE350’s fuel economy positions it competitively within its segment, considering its size and luxury. The BMW X5 sDrive40i achieves a slightly better 23 MPG combined with its inline-six engine. The Lexus RX 350, known for its reliability, mirrors the GLE350’s 22 MPG combined. The Volvo XC90 B5 delivers 24 MPG combined, offering slightly better fuel efficiency. These comparisons matter to the luxury SUV buyer, indicating whether the Mercedes falls behind or is on par with some of its key rivals. Before choosing, it is important to consider GLE350 MPG across all years to see if the 2022 model is the best choice for you.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these actions quickly deplete fuel. Gently ease onto the accelerator pedal and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary stops and starts.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated and maintained. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Excess cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, making the engine work harder and consume more fuel. Remove any items you don’t need on a regular basis.

Take advantage of the GLE350’s driving modes. The “Eco” mode optimizes various vehicle settings to prioritize fuel efficiency. Experiment with the different drive modes to find one that balances your driving needs with the efficiency you desire.

Minimize idling. Modern engines don’t require extended warm-up periods, and idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine to save fuel.