Home > News & Blogs > 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE Redesign Earns Top Safety Pick+ Award for Seventh Consecutive Year
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE Redesign Earns Top Safety Pick+ Award for Seventh Consecutive Year
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE: Safety, Design, and Performance
Introduction
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE represents a significant evolution in luxury SUVs, combining cutting-edge safety features, sophisticated design, and impressive performance. Originally introduced as a refreshed version of the M-Class in 2015, the GLE underwent a full redesign in 2020, solidifying its position as a top contender in the competitive luxury SUV market. This article delves into the GLE's safety credentials, design updates, and how it stacks up against rivals like the BMW X5 and Lexus RX.
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Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE earned the prestigious Top Safety Pick Plus award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the highest designation given by the agency. This marks the seventh consecutive year the model has achieved stellar safety ratings, with five years as the GLE-Class and two as the M-Class.
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Crashworthiness
The GLE received top scores in all IIHS crashworthiness evaluations, including:
- Driver-side small overlap front
- Passenger-side small overlap front
- Moderate overlap front
- Side impact
- Roof strength
- Head restraints
-
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Automatic Emergency Braking Systems
The GLE comes equipped with two automatic emergency braking systems:
- Standard System: Reduced impact speed by 10 mph in the 12-mph test and 14 mph in the 25-mph test.
- Optional Advanced System: Part of the Driver Assistance 2 Package, it avoided collisions in the 12-mph test and reduced impact speed by 21 mph in the 25-mph test.
Both systems earned IIHS's superior rating, though the agency noted that neither performed flawlessly.
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Headlight Performance
Headlight performance is a critical factor in the IIHS ratings. Only GLE models equipped with optional curve-adaptive LED projector headlights with high-beam assist, built after July 2019, qualify for the Top Safety Pick Plus award. The base headlights, while acceptable, do not meet the criteria for the "Plus" designation.
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Design and Interior
The 2020 GLE boasts a sleek, modern design that reflects Mercedes-Benz's commitment to luxury and innovation. Key design highlights include:
- Exterior: A bold front grille, aerodynamic lines, and optional AMG styling for a sportier look.
- Interior: Premium materials, advanced infotainment system, and spacious seating for up to seven passengers.
- Technology: Dual 12.3-inch displays, MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system, and voice-activated controls.
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Performance and Engine Options
The 2020 GLE offers a range of engine options to suit different driving preferences:
- GLE 350: Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 255 horsepower.
- GLE 450: Features a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine with mild hybrid technology, delivering 362 horsepower.
- AMG GLE 53: A high-performance variant with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine, generating 429 horsepower.
All models come with a 9-speed automatic transmission and optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive for enhanced performance and handling.
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Comparison with Competitors
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE faces stiff competition from other luxury SUVs like the BMW X5 and Lexus RX. Here's how they compare:
BMW X5
The 2019 BMW X5 also earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus award, but only models with upgraded headlights qualify. The X5 offers similar safety features and performance but has a more driver-focused interior design.
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Lexus RX
The 2019 Lexus RX received top scores in five of IIHS's crashworthiness tests but has yet to undergo the passenger-side small overlap front test. Its headlights earned marginal and acceptable ratings, limiting its eligibility to a Top Safety Pick (without the "Plus").
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Conclusion
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE stands out as a top choice for luxury SUV buyers, offering a blend of advanced safety features, elegant design, and robust performance. Its IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus award underscores its commitment to safety, while its competitive pricing and luxurious amenities make it a compelling option in its class. Whether you're comparing it to the BMW X5 or Lexus RX, the GLE proves to be a well-rounded and reliable choice.
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Last Updated On Mar, 27-2025