Mercedes-Benz GLE

The Mercedes-Benz GLE sits in that sweet spot of the brand's SUV range — big enough to feel imposing, refined enough to use every day. In India it arrives with mild-hybrid petrol and diesel four-cylinders, air suspension on top trims, and a cabin that genuinely justifies the badge. It rivals the BMW X5 and Audi Q7 head-on, and for many buyers it's the default choice. Locally assembled, it undercuts full-import alternatives while keeping the long-distance comfort intact.

The current GLE leans into comfort rather than outright sportiness, and that suits Indian roads well. The optional Airmatic air suspension soaks up broken tarmac and speed breakers with a calm that the steel-sprung variants can't quite match, and the long wheelbase keeps the cabin settled at highway speeds. Refinement is a strong point — the four-cylinder engines are well isolated, and only under hard acceleration do you hear them work.

Both powertrains are 2.0-litre turbo units with a 48V mild-hybrid assist. The petrol (GLE 450) is the smoother, quieter pick for city and highway cruising, while the diesel (GLE 300d/450d) returns better economy and pulls harder in the mid-range, making it the sensible long-distance choice. The nine-speed automatic is unobtrusive most of the time, though it can hesitate slightly when you ask for a sudden downshift. Power delivery is more than adequate rather than thrilling — this is a relaxed mile-eater, not a back-road weapon.

Inside, the GLE feels every bit a Mercedes. The twin-screen MBUX setup is crisp and feature-rich, the front seats are excellent, and material quality is consistently high. Rear-seat space is generous for two adults, though the swooping roofline eats a little headroom for taller passengers. The boot is large and usefully shaped. Where the GLE asks for caution is the options list — many desirable features sit on higher trims or packages, and ticking boxes inflates the price quickly. After-sales costs and service intervals are also worth budgeting for.

Dynamically, the GLE is competent rather than engaging. Body control is good for a vehicle this size, but the steering is light and the focus is clearly on isolation. If you want the most involving drive in this class, the BMW X5 still leads; if you prioritise ride comfort and cabin serenity, the GLE makes a very strong case.