Inside the Sh9m Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d Omanga gifted son

A fortnight ago, the internet was abuzz with news and flashy images of a brand new Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d 4MATIC that politician Millicent Omanga had gifted her son for his 20th birthday.

This week on Motoring, we take a detailed look at the 3-liter German machine that motor experts say strikes a fine balance between power, prestige, and practicality.

The Stuttgart-based company in Germany clearly outdid the blending of German precision with the ruggedness and versatility demanded by any Kenyan motorist.

We also delve into its performance, agility, cutting-edge technology, and why motor enthusiasts rank the GLE among the most attractive luxury SUVs in Kenya today.

What do the initials GLE stand for?

G: Geländewagen, is a German term for "off-road vehicle". It is used across many Mercedes-Benz SUV models. 

L: is a "fluid linking letter," enhancing the flow and ease of pronunciation within the name. 

E Indicates that the SUV is positioned as the E-Class equivalent, meaning it shares the same size and segment with the E-Class sedan, but in the form of an SUV

Body/Interior design

The GLE is hard to miss on the roads thanks to its bold grille with the three-pointed star (symbolising land, sea, and air, which the company wanted to conquer with its world-class engines).

The sleek LED headlights and muscular stance also give the machine a commanding presence.

The GLE, being among a showcase of Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship, comes fitted with plush leather seats, polished wood trims, and soft-touch surfaces, creating an atmosphere of luxury.

Its large alloy wheels and an elevated ride height blend elegance with sportiness, whether cruising along Nairobi’s highways or parked in Karen and Runda suburbs.

Luxury interior and technology

Inside, the GLE offers a premium cabin finished with leather, wood trims, and soft-touch materials.

Space is generous for both front and rear passengers.

Twin 12.3-inch digital displays power Mercedes’ MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, which supports voice control, crisp navigation, and smartphone integration.

Voice-activated commands are also a plus.

The Burmester surround sound, panoramic sunroof, and customizable ambient lighting elevate the experience.

Performance

The GLE 350d runs on a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo-diesel engine producing 272 horsepower and 600 newton-meters of torque.

Paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, it accelerates strongly and handles confidently.

On highways, it overtakes with ease, while optional AIRMATIC air suspension smooths potholes, speed bumps, and uneven rough roads.

Fuel consumption

Fuel economy averages nine to eleven (9-11) km per litre, which is impressive for its size.

This translates to a consumption of between 32 and 38 litres of fuel for a motorist driving between Nairobi and Kisumu, 342km apart.

Though not a hardcore off-roader, the GLE manages gravel roads and park driveways comfortably.

Safety and assistance

Kenya’s unpredictable roads demand safety, and the GLE is well-prepared.

Features include Active Brake Assist, blind spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera.

It also comes equipped with an adaptive cruise control, making long-distance travel less tiring.

Spare parts

Mercedes-Benz is supported locally by DT Dobie, ensuring access to genuine parts and professional servicing.

Maintenance costs are higher than those of mainstream brands, but the GLE rewards with reliability, prestige, and comfort, reflecting the car’s luxury positioning.

Routine servicing is costlier compared to mainstream brands, but the trade-off is unmatched reliability and prestige.

Practicality is another plus. The machine offers a generous 630 litres of luggage with rear seats folding flat for added flexibility.

Multiple USB-C ports and smart storage solutions make it family-friendly.

Pricing

The GLE 350d sits firmly in the premium segment. Locally, 2015 models start from around Sh4.3 million, while 2016-2017 units range between Sh8.2 million and Sh9.7 million.

Foreign-used 2018 models fetch between Sh9.5m and Sh10 million, with high-spec imports commanding Sh11 million or more.

A brand-new, fully taxed unit can cost upwards of Sh18–20 million, depending on specifications.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d 4MATIC is a complete package; luxurious, powerful, and practical. For those seeking a vehicle that glides through traffic, doubling up as a family workhorse, the GLE 350d delivers.