2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350

The M-Class has been renamed the GLE for 2016. In addition to the new name, the GLE features a slight face-lift, a new plug-in hybrid model and a few new features compared to the outgoing M-Class. See the 2016 Make Model models for sale near you

We'd go with the GLE300d or the GLE350. While they may offer lackluster performance, both represent the best value in the segment -- and both tout an impressive array of standard features and a wide selection of reasonably priced options (at least, for a Mercedes-Benz). With that said, drivers who don't need all the GLE's space may instead want to try to fit into the GLC, which offers more affordable pricing and better driving dynamics. Find a Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class for sale

The base-level GLE model is the GLE350, which starts from $52,100. Standard equipment includes 19-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an 8-in center screen with Mercedes' COMAND infotainment system, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, Mercedes' MB-Tex synthetic leather upholstery, anti-lock brakes, a forward-collision warning system, side-curtain airbags and a driver drowsiness monitor. The GLE300d ($53,500) has the same equipment, though it substitutes 18-in wheels for the GLE350's 19-in wheels.

Next up is the GLE400 ($65,600), which adds a backup camera, keyless access with push-button starting, a lane-departure warning system, a navigation system, a blind spot monitor, 20-in alloy wheels, leather upholstery with ventilated front seats and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. The GLE550e ($66,600) includes many of the same features, though it loses ventilated front seats.

Topping the range is the high-performance GLE63 AMG ($101,000 for the regular model; $108,100 for the S), which touts adaptive air suspension, a sport exhaust, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive LED headlights, automatic high beams, a 360-degree camera system, automated parallel parking, enhanced leather upholstery, a sport exhaust and aluminum shift paddles and pedals.

As for options, GLE models are available with many features that come standard on higher trim levels. Other options include a panoramic sunroof, tri-zone automatic climate control, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a rear-seat entertainment system, a 14-speaker stereo system and massaging front seats.