2019 MB GLC on road

What’s the Difference Between the 2018 GLC SUV and 2018 GLE SUV?

2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV Vs. 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV

The Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup can be intimidating. A compelling selection of luxury vehicles grants you the luxury of choice, though the cost is the simplicity of an easy decision. The 2018 GLC SUV and 2018 GLE SUV are one potential matchup, both compact SUVs offering exhilarating power and intelligent utility in sleek and stylish packages. To judge these vehicles fairly, we’ll need to take a closer look and their respective features and specifications.

The GLC 300 and GLE 350 are the starting trims for their respective models. Both models come in four additional trim levels including a hybrid option, but for the sake of this comparison we’ll be focusing on the GLC 300 and GLE 350.

2018 GLC SUV (GLC 300)
Vs.
2018 GLE SUV (GLE 350)
$40,050*
MSRP
$52,200*
2.0L I4 16-Valve Turbo
Engine
3.5L V6 24-Valve
241 HP / 273 LB-FT
Horsepower / Torque
302 HP / 273 LB-FT
22 City / 28 Highway**
MPG
18 City / 22 Highway***
9-Speed Automatic
Transmission
7-Speed Automatic
56.5 Cubic Feet
Cargo Volume (Max)
80.3 Cubic Feet
3500 Lbs.
Towing Capacity (Max)
7200 Lbs.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE exterior front view

From our comparison it’s clear that the GLE SUV is the larger and more powerful of the two, offering a sizable advantage in horsepower, cargo volume, and towing capacity. However, despite its lower price, the GLC SUV easily beats out its larger sibling in terms of fuel efficiency, most likely due to a combination of its smaller engine and 9-speed transmission. As is often the case, the larger GLE 350 is built to power and propel forward with emphasized performance, while the GLC 300 offers more modest utility with added efficiency at a lower price.

Whether you’re better served by the more substantial power of the GLE SUV or the reserved refinement of the GLC SUV, you can drive either vehicle with the same comfort and style expected of a Mercedes-Benz vehicle. With premium luxury interiors and bold, commanding stylings, both SUVs speak volumes inside and out.

To compare these models in person, visit our Peoria, AZ location today! If you’d like more information, feel free to contact us and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible.


See Our Entire Mercedes-Benz Inventory


* MSRP does/does not include transportation charge. Excludes options, taxes, title, registration, [and dealer prep]. Options, model availability, and price may vary. [See dealer for details.]

**EPA estimated 22 MPG city, 28 MPG highway with 17.4-gallon fuel tank capacity. You may get different mileage depending on driving conditions

***EPA estimated 18 MPG city, 22 MPG highway with 24.6-gallon fuel tank capacity. You may get different mileage depending on driving conditions