What I'm driving: Mercedes Benz GLE 450e
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The Mercedes Benz GLE 450e plug-in hybrid SUV is for luxury buyers who aren't quite ready to go fully electric.
Why it matters: Plug-in hybrids run on electricity for most daily errands, but still have a gasoline engine that provides security for people who are nervous about finding a place to charge on longer trips.
Zoom in: The GLE 450e has 49 miles of electric range — more than most people drive in a day.
- After that distance, the engine turns on, providing another 450 miles of driving range, per EPA tests.
- I didn't burn a drop of gas during my weeklong test drive; I only topped off the battery once using my home charger.
Key specs: The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor generates 381 horsepower. All-wheel-drive is standard across the lineup.
- Unlike gasoline versions of the GLE, which have an optional third row, the plug-in hybrid has two rows and seats five passengers.
- The interior is loaded with plush materials and luxury features you'd expect from Mercedes, including a wide infotainment screen that stretches two-thirds of the way across the dashboard.
One gripe: The MBUX voice assistant had an annoying habit of barging into conversations where it wasn't invited.
- It's supposed to activate when it hears the keyword "Hey Mercedes," but it sometimes mistakenly interjected when it heard a similar sound or phrase.
The GLE 450e comes in three versions, ranging in price from around $71,000 to $78,000.
- I drove the base model, but with options including a panoramic sunroof, driver-assistance package and other upgrades, the price shot up to $87,800, including a $1,300 destination charge.
The bottom line: The GLE 450e is the best of both worlds — luxurious and efficient.
I test-drive vehicles in my role as a juror for the North American Car and Truck of the Year awards. Opinions are my own.
