While graphically the larger screen is brighter and crisper than before, it’s not without its flaws. Occasionally Bluetooth audio failed to connect for me and the Apple CarPlay functionality (new this year) disallows the Mercedes’ own navigation functions and requires the rotary knob to operate rather than the touch pad. The screen itself is not a touchscreen. There is room for improvement in this integration.

Ergonomically, the rest of the interior is quite good if you can get used to the column shifter Mercedes employs for the transmission. The shifter itself works fine, but it takes a conscious effort to locate the wiper functions on the turn signal stalk.

The seats – and cup holders – are heated and cooled in this GLE 450, and the seats themselves are quite comfortable, if a little stiff. Space is ample for four passengers, with five being able to fit without much complaint, though the centre tunnel does create a hump to straddle in the rear inboard seat.

With that rear seat folded flat, the GLE 450 will swallow over 2,000 L worth of luggage volume (690 L with the seat up), and it’s rated to tow a 3,265 kg trailer, all of which is competitive in the mid-size segment.

When SUVs are as wholly good as the GLE 450, it’s little wonder that sales continue on their upward trajectory across all segments. Consumers shopping the mid-size luxury SUV segment truly can have it all with virtually no compromise, and the GLE 450 is one heck of a great machine. And as a car enthusiast, it still pains me to tell you that.

Warranty:
4 years/80,000 km; 4 years/80,000 km powertrain; 5 years/unlimited distance corrosion perforation; 4 years/unlimited distance roadside assistance

Competitors:
Audi Q7
BMW X5
Cadillac XT5
Lexus RX 350

Pricing: 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG 4MATIC
Base Price: $70,800
Options: Intelligent Drive Package, $2,700; Premium Package, $5,900; Exclusive Package, $1,250; Night Package, $375; Saddle Brown Leather, $1,990; Aluminum Running Boards, $750; Climate Controlled Cupholders, $250; Heated Steering Wheel, $250; Climate Comfort Front Seats, $1,200; Trailer hitch, $675
Destination: $2,495
A/C Tax: $100
Price as Tested: $88,735

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