The Mercedes-Benz W166 was launched in 2011 as the M-Class (ML), before undergoing a major facelift in 2015 where it was renamed GLE to align with the E-Class nomenclature. This premium SUV emphasizes supreme comfort, safety, and on-road capabilities (and off-road with the On&Offroad package). Although European demand heavily focused on diesels (OM642 and OM651), the gasoline engines (which are the subject of this report) offer superior driving pleasure and, for some, significantly more reassuring reliability in the face of complex anti-pollution standards. Build quality is excellent, but the vehicle's high weight (often over 2.1 tons) puts a strain on the running gear and brakes.
The Mercedes GLE (W166) is an excellent highway cruiser that ages very well aesthetically and internally. For gasoline engines, the choice is binary. The V6s (M276), whether naturally aspirated (ML 350) or biturbo (GLE 400 / 43 AMG), are excellent, reliable, and powerful engines that fully justify the purchase. In contrast, the V8s (ML 500 / GLE 500) equipped with the M278 engine are financial ticking time bombs due to the fragility of their cylinders; they should be avoided unless the engine has already been replaced or you have a repair budget of €15,000. Avoid models equipped with Airmatic if you are looking to minimize long-term maintenance costs.
| Oil change | £100 – 180 |
| Timing chain | £2 200 – 4 000 (for tensioners/phasers replacement) |
| Complete brakes | £300 – 600 |
| Estimated annual budget | £650 – 1 300 |
Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.