The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 is a mid-size luxury SUV produced from the 2016 model year to present. It replaced the M-Class (ML 350) as part of Mercedes-Benz’s revised nomenclature. The GLE 350 spans two generations: the first-generation W166 platform (2016-2019) and the second-generation V167 platform (2020-present). Towing capacity varies by model year, drivetrain configuration, and the presence of the factory tow package.
This guide provides year-by-year towing specifications for the GLE 350, including maximum trailer weight, payload limits, tongue weight, hitch class, and gross combined weight ratings. Following manufacturer-rated towing limits helps protect the engine, transmission, braking system, and chassis from excessive stress and premature wear.
What is the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 maximum towing capacity? The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 maximum towing capacity is 7,700 lbs (3,493 kg) when equipped with the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system and the factory trailer hitch package. This rating applies to second-generation models from 2020 onward. First-generation GLE 350 models (2016-2019) with 4MATIC are rated at 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg). Rear-wheel drive configurations are rated lower: 5,950 lbs (2,699 kg) for second-generation models and 6,600 lbs (2,994 kg) for first-generation models.
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2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 with 48V Mild Hybrid (255 hp, 295 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4MATIC AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,950 lbs (2,699 kg) RWD; 7,700 lbs (3,493 kg) 4MATIC |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs (3,493 kg) with weight-distributing hitch |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,499 lbs (680 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 6,217 lbs (2,820 kg) 4MATIC |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 13,007 lbs (5,900 kg) est. |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) dead weight; 770 lbs (349 kg) with weight-distributing hitch |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Trailer Hitch Package) |
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 carries forward the same towing specifications established by the second-generation redesign in 2020. The 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine with 48-volt mild hybrid assist produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. 4MATIC all-wheel drive models with the factory Trailer Hitch Package achieve the maximum 7,700-lb trailer weight rating. The RWD configuration is limited to 5,950 lbs. A weight-distributing hitch is required to reach the full 7,700-lb capacity, as the dead weight hitch limit is 5,000 lbs. Trailer Sway Control is standard equipment on all 2025 GLE 350 models.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 with 48V Mild Hybrid (255 hp, 295 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4MATIC AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,950 lbs (2,699 kg) RWD; 7,700 lbs (3,493 kg) 4MATIC |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs (3,493 kg) with weight-distributing hitch |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,499 lbs (680 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 6,217 lbs (2,820 kg) 4MATIC |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 13,007 lbs (5,900 kg) est. |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) dead weight; 770 lbs (349 kg) with weight-distributing hitch |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Trailer Hitch Package) |
The 2024 GLE 350 4MATIC delivers a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 lbs when properly equipped. Curb weight for the 4MATIC configuration is 4,916 lbs, giving a gross vehicle weight rating of 6,217 lbs. The 2.0L turbocharged engine with 48-volt mild hybrid system generates 295 lb-ft of torque from 1,800 rpm, providing strong low-end pulling power. The Trailer Hitch Package includes a Class III receiver, trailer wiring harness, and Trailer Sway Control programming integrated into the vehicle stability system. RWD models have a lower curb weight of approximately 4,715 lbs but are limited to 5,950 lbs towing capacity.
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (255 hp, 273 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4MATIC AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,950 lbs (2,699 kg) RWD; 7,700 lbs (3,493 kg) 4MATIC |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs (3,493 kg) with weight-distributing hitch |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,499 lbs (680 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 6,217 lbs (2,820 kg) 4MATIC |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 13,007 lbs (5,900 kg) est. |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) dead weight; 770 lbs (349 kg) with weight-distributing hitch |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Trailer Hitch Package) |
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 towing capacity remains consistent across the second-generation model years. The 4MATIC AWD variant with the factory tow package achieves 7,700 lbs maximum trailer weight. RWD models are rated at 5,950 lbs. The 2023 model year did not receive the 48-volt mild hybrid system, and the 2.0L engine produced 273 lb-ft of torque rather than 295 lb-ft found in later mild hybrid versions. Curb weight for the 4MATIC is 4,718 lbs. The Trailer Hitch Package remained an optional extra rather than standard equipment across all trim levels.
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (255 hp, 273 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4MATIC AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,950 lbs (2,699 kg) RWD; 7,700 lbs (3,493 kg) 4MATIC |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs (3,493 kg) with weight-distributing hitch |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,499 lbs (680 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 6,217 lbs (2,820 kg) 4MATIC |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 13,007 lbs (5,900 kg) est. |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) dead weight; 770 lbs (349 kg) with weight-distributing hitch |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Trailer Hitch Package) |
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 offers a maximum trailer weight of 7,700 lbs with 4MATIC and the factory tow package. RWD curb weight is 4,608 lbs, while 4MATIC curb weight is 4,718 lbs. The 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission is standard across all configurations. The RWD model’s towing capacity of 5,950 lbs reflects the reduced traction and stability inherent to a two-wheel drive setup when pulling heavier trailers. Payload capacity is 1,499 lbs for 4MATIC models. The weight-distributing hitch maximum trailer weight is 7,701 lbs with a 770-lb tongue weight limit.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (255 hp, 273 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4MATIC AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,950 lbs (2,699 kg) RWD; 7,700 lbs (3,493 kg) 4MATIC |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs (3,493 kg) with weight-distributing hitch |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,521 lbs (690 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 6,217 lbs (2,820 kg) 4MATIC |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 13,007 lbs (5,900 kg) est. |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) dead weight; 770 lbs (349 kg) with weight-distributing hitch |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Trailer Hitch Package) |
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 towing capacity starts at 5,950 lbs for RWD models. Upgrading to the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system raises the maximum towing capacity to 7,700 lbs. The 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine produces 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Payload capacity for 4MATIC models is 1,521 lbs. The factory Trailer Hitch Package adds the receiver, wiring, and Trailer Sway Control software integration. A weight-distributing hitch is necessary to reach the full 7,700-lb rating.
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (255 hp, 273 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4MATIC AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,950 lbs (2,699 kg) RWD; 7,700 lbs (3,493 kg) 4MATIC |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs (3,493 kg) with weight-distributing hitch |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,521 lbs (690 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 6,217 lbs (2,820 kg) 4MATIC |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 13,007 lbs (5,900 kg) est. |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) dead weight; 770 lbs (349 kg) with weight-distributing hitch |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Trailer Hitch Package) |
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 launched the second generation on the all-new V167 platform. The redesign introduced the 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine replacing the previous 3.5L V6, while increasing the maximum towing capacity from 7,200 lbs to 7,700 lbs for 4MATIC models. Curb weight for the 4MATIC is 4,696 lbs with a GVWR of 6,217 lbs. The Trailer Hitch Package was available as a factory or dealer-installed option. RWD models maintained a 5,950-lb limit. The new 9-speed transmission replaced the prior 7-speed unit.
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L V6 (302 hp, 273 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4MATIC AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 6,600 lbs (2,994 kg) RWD; 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) 4MATIC |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,532 lbs (695 kg) est. |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 6,173 lbs (2,800 kg) RWD; 6,283 lbs (2,850 kg) 4MATIC |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 11,373 lbs (5,159 kg) est. |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) dead weight; 600 lbs (272 kg) est. |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 represents the final year of the first-generation W166 platform. The 3.5L V6 engine produces 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. RWD models are rated at 6,600 lbs maximum towing capacity, while 4MATIC models reach 7,200 lbs. Curb weight for the RWD model is approximately 4,650 lbs and 4,751 lbs for the 4MATIC configuration. The GVWR is 6,173 lbs for RWD and 6,283 lbs for 4MATIC. Australian market diesel variants (GLE 350 d) are rated at 3,265 kg (7,198 lbs) braked and 750 kg (1,653 lbs) unbraked.
2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L V6 (302 hp, 273 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4MATIC AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 6,600 lbs (2,994 kg) RWD; 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) 4MATIC |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,532 lbs (695 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 6,173 lbs (2,800 kg) RWD; 6,283 lbs (2,850 kg) 4MATIC |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 11,373 lbs (5,159 kg) est. |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) dead weight; approximately 580-600 lbs with weight-distributing hitch |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 4MATIC towing capacity is 7,200 lbs when properly equipped with the factory tow package. The 3.5L V6 generates 302 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque through a 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission. Curb weight is 4,652 lbs for RWD and 4,784 lbs for 4MATIC. Gross vehicle weight rating is 6,173 lbs for RWD and 6,283 lbs for 4MATIC. Payload capacity is 1,532 lbs. Owner reports indicate the factory hitch label shows a 7,200-lb capacity with a 580-lb tongue weight limit. The trailer hitch receiver is a Class III 2-inch unit available as an optional extra.
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L V6 (302 hp, 273 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4MATIC AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 6,600 lbs (2,994 kg) RWD; 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) 4MATIC |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,532 lbs (695 kg) est. |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 6,173 lbs (2,800 kg) RWD; 6,283 lbs (2,850 kg) 4MATIC |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 11,373 lbs (5,159 kg) est. |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 530 lbs (240 kg) per owner’s manual for gross trailer weight of 6,615 lbs |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 towing capacity is 6,600 lbs for RWD and 7,200 lbs for 4MATIC models. The 3.5L V6 engine with 7-speed automatic provides the same output as the 2018 model. The owner’s manual specifies a gross trailer weight of 6,615 lbs with a 530-lb tongue weight for certain configurations. The factory tow hitch label indicates a 7,200-lb capacity. Fuel economy is rated at 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway for the RWD GLE 350. All GLE 350 4MATIC models share the same 7,200-lb maximum towing capacity regardless of trim level, a figure that also applies to the GLE 400, GLE 63, and GLE 63 S.
2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L V6 (302 hp, 273 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4MATIC AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 6,600 lbs (2,994 kg) RWD; 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) 4MATIC |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,532 lbs (695 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 6,173 lbs (2,800 kg) RWD; 6,283 lbs (2,850 kg) 4MATIC |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 11,373 lbs (5,159 kg) est. |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 500 lbs (227 kg) dead weight; approximately 580-600 lbs with weight-distributing hitch |
| Hitch Class | Class III (2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 is the debut model year for the GLE nameplate, replacing the M-Class (ML 350). The vehicle carried over the W166 platform and 3.5L V6 powertrain from the final M-Class model year. Maximum towing capacity ranges from 6,600 lbs for RWD to 7,200 lbs for 4MATIC configurations. The Australian market GLE 350 d diesel variant is rated at 3,265 kg (7,198 lbs) braked and 750 kg unbraked. The GLE 300 d diesel is also rated at 6,600 lbs. Payload capacity is 1,532 lbs for the 4MATIC model. The transition from M-Class to GLE brought no mechanical changes affecting towing specifications.
Towing Equipment and Setup Tips
The GLE 350 requires specific equipment to tow safely at its rated capacity. The factory Trailer Hitch Package is the recommended starting point for any towing setup. This package includes the Class III 2-inch receiver, a 7-pin trailer wiring harness, and Trailer Sway Control software integration. Trailer Sway Control works with the vehicle’s electronic stability program to detect and counteract trailer sway through selective braking and engine torque reduction.
The dead weight hitch limit on the GLE 350 is 5,000 lbs with a 500-lb maximum tongue weight. To reach the full 7,700-lb rated towing capacity on second-generation models or 7,200 lbs on first-generation models, a weight-distributing hitch is required. A weight-distributing hitch transfers tongue weight from the rear axle to the front axle and trailer axles, improving steering control and braking balance. The Fastway e2 and similar weight-distributing hitches with integrated sway control are compatible with the GLE 350.
A trailer brake controller is not factory-installed on the GLE 350. Owners towing trailers with electric brakes must install an aftermarket brake controller. The Curt Echo mobile brake controller is a commonly used Bluetooth unit that plugs into the 7-pin connector and is controlled via smartphone. Hardwired brake controllers from Tekonsha and Redarc are also compatible with professional installation.
Tire pressures must be increased to the loaded vehicle specification listed on the fuel filler door placard when towing. The GLE 350 typically uses 255/50R19 tires on base models. Proper tire inflation is critical for maintaining load-carrying capacity and preventing heat-related tire failures.
Tongue weight should fall between 10 and 15 percent of the total trailer weight for conventional trailers. For a 7,700-lb trailer, this equates to 770 to 1,155 lbs of tongue weight. The GLE 350 hitch is rated for a maximum tongue weight of 770 lbs with a weight-distributing hitch. Trailer loading must be managed to keep tongue weight within the hitch rating while maintaining adequate weight for stable towing.
Aftermarket Class III hitches from Curt (part number C13294) are rated at 7,500 lbs gross trailer weight and 750 lbs tongue weight for first-generation GLE 350 models. These hitches install behind the rear bumper cover with only the 2-inch receiver exposed. A trailer wiring harness such as the Tekonsha T-One is required to connect trailer lights without splicing factory wiring.
| Equipment | Normal Towing (Under 5,000 lbs) | Heavy Towing (5,000 to 7,700 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch class | Class III | Class III |
| Weight-distributing hitch | Not required but recommended | Required to exceed 5,000 lbs |
| Trailer brakes | Required in most jurisdictions above 1,500-3,000 lbs | Required |
| Brake controller | Required if trailer has electric brakes | Required |
| Trailer Sway Control | Standard on newer models | Standard; aftermarket sway control recommended |
| Transmission cooler | Factory sufficient | Factory sufficient |
| Tire pressure adjustment | Recommended | Required |
| Wiring harness | 7-pin connector | 7-pin connector |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Mercedes-Benz GLE 350?
The maximum towing capacity of a Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 is 7,700 lbs (3,493 kg) for second-generation models (2020-present) with 4MATIC all-wheel drive and the factory Trailer Hitch Package. First-generation models (2016-2019) with 4MATIC are rated at 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg). RWD models are rated lower at 5,950 lbs for second-generation and 6,600 lbs for first-generation GLE 350 vehicles.
How much can a Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 tow without a weight-distributing hitch?
Without a weight-distributing hitch, the GLE 350 dead weight hitch limit is 5,000 lbs with a maximum tongue weight of 500 lbs. This applies to both first and second-generation models. Exceeding the dead weight hitch limit requires a weight-distributing hitch to restore front axle load and maintain safe steering and braking control.
Does 4MATIC all-wheel drive increase the GLE 350 towing capacity?
Yes. The 4MATIC all-wheel drive system increases the GLE 350 towing capacity compared to rear-wheel drive models. For second-generation models, 4MATIC raises the rating from 5,950 lbs to 7,700 lbs. For first-generation models, 4MATIC raises the rating from 6,600 lbs to 7,200 lbs. The additional traction and stability provided by all-wheel drive allow the higher tow rating.
What engine does the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 use for towing?
Second-generation GLE 350 models (2020-present) use a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 255 horsepower and 273 to 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. First-generation models (2016-2019) use a 3.5L V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic.
Does the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 require a trailer brake controller?
The GLE 350 does not include a factory-installed trailer brake controller. When towing trailers equipped with electric brakes, an aftermarket brake controller must be installed. The Curt Echo Bluetooth brake controller is a plug-and-play option that connects to the 7-pin trailer connector. Hardwired controllers are also compatible with professional installation.
What is the tongue weight limit for a Mercedes-Benz GLE 350?
The tongue weight limit for the GLE 350 is 500 lbs with a dead weight hitch and up to 770 lbs with a weight-distributing hitch on second-generation models. First-generation models have a tongue weight limit of approximately 530 to 600 lbs depending on the specific configuration and hitch type. Tongue weight should represent 10 to 15 percent of total trailer weight for stable towing.
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 a good vehicle for towing a travel trailer?
The GLE 350 with 4MATIC and the factory tow package can tow travel trailers up to 7,700 lbs, which covers many small to mid-size campers. Owners on towing forums report stable performance with trailers in the 5,000 to 6,500-lb range when using a weight-distributing hitch with integrated sway control. The GLE 350 is a unibody vehicle and does not use a body-on-frame truck platform, so towing near the maximum rating requires careful attention to payload capacity and tongue weight limits.
Can I install an aftermarket hitch on a Mercedes-Benz GLE 350?
Yes. Aftermarket Class III hitches from Curt (part C13294) and Draw-Tite are available for both first and second-generation GLE 350 models. These hitches are rated at 7,500 lbs gross trailer weight and 750 lbs tongue weight. Installation requires removing the rear bumper cover on some models. A vehicle-specific wiring harness is also required for trailer light connection.
What is the GLE 350 GCWR and why does it matter?
The Gross Combined Weight Rating for the GLE 350 4MATIC is approximately 13,007 lbs. GCWR is the maximum allowable combined weight of the fully loaded vehicle, all passengers and cargo, and the fully loaded trailer. Exceeding the GCWR can overheat the transmission, exceed braking capacity, and accelerate drivetrain wear. The GCWR is a critical limit that must be observed regardless of whether the trailer weight alone is within the published towing capacity.
How does the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 towing capacity compare to competitors?
The GLE 350 towing capacity of 7,700 lbs exceeds the Lexus RX 350 (3,500 lbs) and Genesis GV70 (3,500 lbs). It falls below the BMW X5 (7,200 lbs for the xDrive40i, but higher for V8 models) and the Porsche Cayenne (up to 7,716 lbs). The GLE 350 competes directly with the Audi Q7, which is also rated at 7,700 lbs when properly equipped.
Conclusion
The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 towing capacity ranges from 5,950 lbs to 7,700 lbs depending on model year, drivetrain, and equipment. First-generation models (2016-2019) powered by a 3.5L V6 are rated at 6,600 lbs for RWD and 7,200 lbs for 4MATIC. Second-generation models (2020-present) powered by a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 are rated at 5,950 lbs for RWD and 7,700 lbs for 4MATIC.
The factory Trailer Hitch Package is essential for achieving the maximum tow rating. A weight-distributing hitch is required to exceed the 5,000-lb dead weight hitch limit. 4MATIC all-wheel drive consistently enables a higher towing capacity than RWD across all model years. Trailer Sway Control is standard on second-generation models and provides an additional safety margin during towing. Payload capacity ranges from 1,499 to 1,532 lbs depending on model year and must be accounted for when calculating total combined weight.
Always verify towing specifications using the owner’s manual for your specific vehicle before towing any load. Observe all weight limits including GCWR, tongue weight, and payload capacity to maintain safe vehicle dynamics and protect the drivetrain.
