GLE 450-Some Random Thoughts & More
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 68
Likes: 24
From: Toronto, Canada
2009, 2012 ml, 2016 gle350d, 2020 gle450
On the positive side... it rained while loading for the trip home after a tough 2 hours with the dive instructor this evening.
Rain was cold, just enough for damp cold. Google said rush hour would add 45 min to the 1 hr trip.
Get in, close the door - turn on the seat heat + low seat ventilation - sirius realjazz, drop into "Curve" mode - "mercedes... open roller blinds", let the last of the evening light in, acoustic glass keeps the road noise out - the smile starts. Even with 21" wheels the uneven back road surface is muted and barely noticeable - the curves are fun.
The nav exits the rolling country road onto a busy local highway w/ a left turn - fast moving traffic - no traffic light - drop into "Sport+" - no problem
.
Back to "Comfort" mode, engage drive pilot, relax and enjoy the peace, quiet and warmth of the heated interior for the next hour.
About 45 min a notification pops up w/ an offer to engage the "Vitality ENERGIZING coach" - don't know if I was showing signs of fatigue (quite likely) - accepted - pretty cool.
Got home feeling like I'd driven 30km instead of 110 - wasn't ready to get out.
All this stuff makes for a wonderful experience after a long day - fantastic when it all works - fingers crossed.
Rain was cold, just enough for damp cold. Google said rush hour would add 45 min to the 1 hr trip.
Get in, close the door - turn on the seat heat + low seat ventilation - sirius realjazz, drop into "Curve" mode - "mercedes... open roller blinds", let the last of the evening light in, acoustic glass keeps the road noise out - the smile starts. Even with 21" wheels the uneven back road surface is muted and barely noticeable - the curves are fun.
The nav exits the rolling country road onto a busy local highway w/ a left turn - fast moving traffic - no traffic light - drop into "Sport+" - no problem
.Back to "Comfort" mode, engage drive pilot, relax and enjoy the peace, quiet and warmth of the heated interior for the next hour.
About 45 min a notification pops up w/ an offer to engage the "Vitality ENERGIZING coach" - don't know if I was showing signs of fatigue (quite likely) - accepted - pretty cool.
Got home feeling like I'd driven 30km instead of 110 - wasn't ready to get out.
All this stuff makes for a wonderful experience after a long day - fantastic when it all works - fingers crossed.
Banned
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 664
Likes: 141
A
Looks like ATT is running a $15 per month special for the hotspot till 10/31 with a 30-day auto renewal not a bad way to give it a try without having to get a 2-year contract
https://www.att.com/plans/connected-car/mercedes.html
Keep in mind there is a throttle after 22GB
https://www.att.com/plans/connected-car/mercedes.html
Keep in mind there is a throttle after 22GB
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 3,391
Likes: 1,040
From: Boise
2024 GMC Canyon Denali..... 2018 Audi SQ5
Looks like ATT is running a $15 per month special for the hotspot till 10/31 with a 30-day auto renewal not a bad way to give it a try without having to get a 2-year contract
https://www.att.com/plans/connected-car/mercedes.html
Keep in mind there is a throttle after 22GB
https://www.att.com/plans/connected-car/mercedes.html
Keep in mind there is a throttle after 22GB
Banned
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 664
Likes: 141
A
Banned
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 664
Likes: 141
A
I am still unclear however on whether MBUX can make use of my phone's Internet service while connected to it for all of its apps (such as TuneIn), plus the MB Navigation.
Because if it can, then the only reason to get a wifi hotspot would be for a dashcam which needs access. Otherwise my phone has truly unlimited internet, no need to pay more.
Because if it can, then the only reason to get a wifi hotspot would be for a dashcam which needs access. Otherwise my phone has truly unlimited internet, no need to pay more.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 3,391
Likes: 1,040
From: Boise
2024 GMC Canyon Denali..... 2018 Audi SQ5
I am still unclear however on whether MBUX can make use of my phone's Internet service while connected to it for all of its apps (such as TuneIn), plus the MB Navigation.
Because if it can, then the only reason to get a wifi hotspot would be for a dashcam which needs access. Otherwise my phone has truly unlimited internet, no need to pay more.
Because if it can, then the only reason to get a wifi hotspot would be for a dashcam which needs access. Otherwise my phone has truly unlimited internet, no need to pay more.
‘Mercedes probably has a contract with one or more cell services like AT&T/Verizon and maybe a satellite backup. The Mercedes “me’ app works with no phone in the car as an example. A very nice App that will only get better.
Our Audi and my GMC truck used Satelite for limited Nav when no Cell Service was available. I’ll be traveling through Nevada next week and will get in no Cell zones so will see what happens with MB Nav.
Last edited by Ron.s; Oct 12, 2019 at 11:36 AM.
Banned
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 664
Likes: 141
A
I’m no expert but I’m pretty sure that MBUX does not use your phone other than the Bluetooth links for Phone and Music. Then USB for Car Play or Android Auto and the Apps allowed by those systems.
‘Mercedes probably has a contract with one or more cell services like AT&T/Verizon and maybe a satellite backup. The Mercedes “me’ app works with no phone in the car as an example. A very nice App that will only get better.
Our Audi and my GMC truck used Satelite for limited Nav when no Cell Service was available. I’ll be traveling through Nevada next week and will get in no Cell zones so will see what happens with MB Nav.
‘Mercedes probably has a contract with one or more cell services like AT&T/Verizon and maybe a satellite backup. The Mercedes “me’ app works with no phone in the car as an example. A very nice App that will only get better.
Our Audi and my GMC truck used Satelite for limited Nav when no Cell Service was available. I’ll be traveling through Nevada next week and will get in no Cell zones so will see what happens with MB Nav.
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 68
Likes: 24
From: Toronto, Canada
2009, 2012 ml, 2016 gle350d, 2020 gle450
SPORT+ mode rocks - is it my imagination or does the suspension seem to subtly lean into corners like it does in CURVE mode?
'mercedes close/open sunblinds' will open/close the sunroof shade and the rear passenger window roller blinds
The windshield has an interesting gold tint - most noticeable on overcast days
There is no need to pause after 'hey mercedes' (no need to say 'hey' either) - stating your request in an unbroken sentence works even if mbux starts speaking ('how can I help) before you're finished, it's still listening so 'mercedes change station to the bridge' works just fine
Wish the HUD graphics were 25% smaller (like say the E53) - sometimes too distracting
Distronic + stop and go (traffic) assist work very well on the slow grind evening commute - the steering wheel 'hunting' has improved since the recall service visit.
It would be great if 'stop and go assist' wasn't disabled by CURVE mode - I can understand why it may need to be disabled in curve mode but it's previous state should be restored when returning to one of the other modes COMFORT etc
'mercedes close/open sunblinds' will open/close the sunroof shade and the rear passenger window roller blinds
The windshield has an interesting gold tint - most noticeable on overcast days
There is no need to pause after 'hey mercedes' (no need to say 'hey' either) - stating your request in an unbroken sentence works even if mbux starts speaking ('how can I help) before you're finished, it's still listening so 'mercedes change station to the bridge' works just fine
Wish the HUD graphics were 25% smaller (like say the E53) - sometimes too distracting
Distronic + stop and go (traffic) assist work very well on the slow grind evening commute - the steering wheel 'hunting' has improved since the recall service visit.
It would be great if 'stop and go assist' wasn't disabled by CURVE mode - I can understand why it may need to be disabled in curve mode but it's previous state should be restored when returning to one of the other modes COMFORT etc
MB World Stories
The Best of Mercedes & AMG
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren
Verdad Gallardo
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine
Verdad Gallardo
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction
Verdad Gallardo
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping
Verdad Gallardo
10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used
Verdad Gallardo
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 6,770
Likes: 1,264
From: Lake Oswego, OR
2020 GLE 450; 2023 BMW M2 Coupe
Member
Joined: Aug 2019
Posts: 189
Likes: 40
From: Northeast
2025 AMG GLE 53
I have noticed some have opted not to get running boards any reason other than personal preference.
i know the AMG exterior package does have more ground effects so maybe the running boards would ruin the look but
i see the new Gle 53 has running boards?
i know the AMG exterior package does have more ground effects so maybe the running boards would ruin the look but
i see the new Gle 53 has running boards?
Banned
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 664
Likes: 141
A
Based on a Reddit thread I saw last night, MBUX will not make use of your phone's connection for its own apps.
Banned
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 354
Likes: 122
2020 GLE 350
I think the running boards are attractive however I opted not to get them because they are of little use (because of size) and they just get the back of my pants dirty. I used the money elsewhere. It is a matter of personal preference.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 3,391
Likes: 1,040
From: Boise
2024 GMC Canyon Denali..... 2018 Audi SQ5
I agree with Bob. They aren’t very functional and are a dirt catcher. But the AMG trim isn’t great either. There are grooves that catch dirt and they stick out a little making exit a little tricky for some. The trim gives the car a good look though.
Banned
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 664
Likes: 141
A
Two things (so far at least) that I haven't been able to figure out:
- How to switch places of the tachometer and speed (they are backwards to what I am used to)
- How to skip to next track from the steering wheel
Any tips?
- How to switch places of the tachometer and speed (they are backwards to what I am used to)
- How to skip to next track from the steering wheel
Any tips?
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 3,391
Likes: 1,040
From: Boise
2024 GMC Canyon Denali..... 2018 Audi SQ5
I gave up-maybe too soon, on switching tracks and just use the touch screen. I only stream from my phone on longer trips but hope someone can shed light on a shortcut. My MBUX and Mercedes Assistant are acting up anyway and there are some subtle changes since my TSB updates. Either that or my resident ghost is still messing with me. I need to sit in my car for a few hours and go back through everything.
I have an update on towing and some recent issues that I’ll post next day or two. I keep having several settings change back to the factory default for one of several.
Junior Member
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 47
Likes: 18
From: Tennessee, USA
2024 AMG GLE 53, 2023 E450 Cabriolet & 2025 GLS 450
I use an IPod in connected to the USB-C in the console, so I just make the middle display (between the 2 round displays) to be the radio/music display. Change tracks by swiping up or down on the thumb trackpad on the left side of the steering wheel.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 408
Likes: 29
From: Orange County
16 GL550
to skip to next track, i use either the left or right motion touch sensor. if left touch sensor, select the middle section of the gauge, change to audio, and then swipe up and down to skip track. if right touch sensor, make sure already on audio page, swipe up to highlight the current track, and then swipe left and right to skip track.
tried this on both usb and BT streaming from phone music
tried this on both usb and BT streaming from phone music
Banned
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 664
Likes: 141
A
I figured out that you can switch tracks by highlighting the thumbnail of album art and then using the right touch sensor on the steering wheel.
By default, when you are on the Entertainment screen and a track is playing, the highlighted function is Search. You need to swipe up twice to highlight the album art.
By default, when you are on the Entertainment screen and a track is playing, the highlighted function is Search. You need to swipe up twice to highlight the album art.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 3,391
Likes: 1,040
From: Boise
2024 GMC Canyon Denali..... 2018 Audi SQ5
Update on Distronic while towing and mileage.
My Distronic is still working as it’s supposed to when not towing. So towing my car disables the lane centering function as well as the lane change function. But the distance function still works so what I have is Cruise Control with distance when towing..at the moment.
I hand calculated Towing mileage (3300lbs) to be just over 12.5 mpg with almost zero wind but numerous elevation changes. My RZR is more aerodynamic than an enclosed trailer would be. I drove 75-80 and passed cars on a 2 lane road at least a dozen times. I used Distronic frequently. I think it would easily be 2mpg higher if it could pull higher gears like our Audi. At 65 on level ground it runs in 9th gear but at 75 its 8th gear and with any grade 7th or even 6th. As I mentioned earlier, at 65 and 9th gear the mileage was reading 15-16 about 25% higher than 12 at 75-80. Even going down a decent grade it wanted to hold 8th gear. I have driven the Audi (-500lbs) faster and been over 14...about the same as my gas truck (+1000lbs) with a 6.2 liter (420hp/460T) engine. Hopefully Mercedes isn’t done with ECU/TCU mapping for towing.
My Distronic is still working as it’s supposed to when not towing. So towing my car disables the lane centering function as well as the lane change function. But the distance function still works so what I have is Cruise Control with distance when towing..at the moment.
I hand calculated Towing mileage (3300lbs) to be just over 12.5 mpg with almost zero wind but numerous elevation changes. My RZR is more aerodynamic than an enclosed trailer would be. I drove 75-80 and passed cars on a 2 lane road at least a dozen times. I used Distronic frequently. I think it would easily be 2mpg higher if it could pull higher gears like our Audi. At 65 on level ground it runs in 9th gear but at 75 its 8th gear and with any grade 7th or even 6th. As I mentioned earlier, at 65 and 9th gear the mileage was reading 15-16 about 25% higher than 12 at 75-80. Even going down a decent grade it wanted to hold 8th gear. I have driven the Audi (-500lbs) faster and been over 14...about the same as my gas truck (+1000lbs) with a 6.2 liter (420hp/460T) engine. Hopefully Mercedes isn’t done with ECU/TCU mapping for towing.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 1,333
Likes: 304
From: Dorset, UK
GLC 450
Perhaps it disables lane centreing because it doesn't know the width of what you are towing and lane change because it doesn't know the length of what you are towing and thus doesn't know if it is safe to change lane - only guessing.
Banned
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 664
Likes: 141
A
So question about AIRMATIC and Sport vs. Individual Mode. According to the manual, Sport mode lowers to -1, and Individual allows to lower to -2.
Well, I am on Sport, I switch over to Individual and try to lower it further by nothing happens. Anyone else experience this?
Well, I am on Sport, I switch over to Individual and try to lower it further by nothing happens. Anyone else experience this?
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 3,391
Likes: 1,040
From: Boise
2024 GMC Canyon Denali..... 2018 Audi SQ5
So question about AIRMATIC and Sport vs. Individual Mode. According to the manual, Sport mode lowers to -1, and Individual allows to lower to -2.
Well, I am on Sport, I switch over to Individual and try to lower it further by nothing happens. Anyone else experience this?
Well, I am on Sport, I switch over to Individual and try to lower it further by nothing happens. Anyone else experience this?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 6,770
Likes: 1,264
From: Lake Oswego, OR
2020 GLE 450; 2023 BMW M2 Coupe
Airmatic
So question about AIRMATIC and Sport vs. Individual Mode. According to the manual, Sport mode lowers to -1, and Individual allows to lower to -2.
Well, I am on Sport, I switch over to Individual and try to lower it further by nothing happens. Anyone else experience this?
Well, I am on Sport, I switch over to Individual and try to lower it further by nothing happens. Anyone else experience this?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 6,770
Likes: 1,264
From: Lake Oswego, OR
2020 GLE 450; 2023 BMW M2 Coupe
Airmatic level settings
With Airmatic all you get is about an inch lower. Might be different with E-ABC. In individual mode you can select Sport for suspension and get it lower but it defaults to Comfort, no lower. An odd thing is the Console Rocker switch only raises the car but will lower it if it’s been raised. In Offroad it raises 2” so there is a 3” range of movement. I haven’t looked at the Manual for ages but found it confusing. I’m easily confused though!
