Mercedes-Benz GLE

How it looks when you see it on the street: This mid-size SUV is anything but mid. The Mercedes-Benz GLE 580 has a physique that impresses fancy friends when you arrive in their driveway — it incorporates lines and angles to create a sleek physical. It’s extra available features give it more glam. The varying lineup of engines and configurations such as two or three rows give it a personalized feel – there’s a GLE for everyone.

How it makes you feel when you get in: The inside is sophisticated and squarely in line with classical Mercedes-Benz design balancing out wood patterns, metal design, and sumptuous leather. Niceties such heated and ventilated front seats and ambient lighting set the mood. The effect is an environment that feels elegant and spacious. It has lots of screen space including two 12.3-inch infotainment systems. The touchpad on the center consul houses all of its functions. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wifi hotspot are standards.

How it drives: The GLE has a 4.0-liter V8 gas engine that makes 580 horsepower and 538-lb feet of torque. The additional Airmatic air suspension keeps the ride smooth and it’s a real pleasant performer on stretches of rocky pavement on our drives through New York City’s highways All-wheel drive. The GLE earns 17 miles per gallon on average for city and highway.

Space for people and things: The two-row option delivers on a spacious cabin that’s comfortable for all sizes of passengers. The third row has it tradeoffs.

What to compare it to: Genesis GV80, Porsche Cayenne, BMW X5

How much does it cost: We drove the GLE 580 4Matic that has a base price of $89,200 and has the Signature Interior Package and Pinnacle Trim AMG 5-spoke wheels with black accents and a driver assistant package and a mystic blue metallic paint job for a total of SUV $118,995.