2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs EQE SUV: Quebec Road Trip Capability Assessment
June 23 2025,
Quebec summer adventures demand SUVs that handle long distances confidently while keeping passengers comfortable. From Montreal to Gaspé Peninsula routes or family trips to the Laurentians, three Mercedes SUVs deliver the cargo space, fuel range, and climate features essential for successful road trips. Each model serves different travel priorities through distinct approaches to efficiency and comfort.
Road trip success depends on practical factors: sufficient fuel range between stations, comfortable seating for hours of driving, and cargo space for gear. Quebec's vast distances between destinations make these considerations critical rather than optional.
Fuel Range and Highway Efficiency
The GLE 350 4MATIC achieves 9.2 L/100 km highway efficiency with its 85-litre fuel tank, providing extended touring capability between fuel stops. This efficiency makes it well-suited for longer Quebec routes without frequent refueling concerns.
Highway efficiency varies significantly between models. The GLE 450e 4MATIC achieves 9.0 Le/100 km through its plug-in hybrid system, while offering 77 kilometres of electric-only operation for emission-free city driving at destinations. Its 65-litre tank works with electric assistance for extended touring range.
The EQE 500 4MATIC SUV eliminates fuel stops entirely with 425 kilometres of electric range per charge. Quebec's expanding DC fast-charging network along Highway 40 and Highway 15 enables 32-minute charging sessions that add substantial range during meal breaks.
Interior Space and Passenger Comfort
Extended driving requires generous passenger accommodation. All three SUVs seat five adults comfortably with these measured dimensions:
Passenger Space Comparison:
|
Model |
Front Headroom |
Front Legroom |
Rear Headroom |
Rear Legroom |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
GLE 350 |
1,074 mm |
1,024 mm |
1,027 mm |
1,040 mm |
|
GLE 450e |
1,074 mm |
1,024 mm |
1,027 mm |
1,040 mm |
|
EQE 500 |
1,058 mm |
1,031 mm |
1,001 mm |
1,031 mm |
The GLE models offer optional third-row seating for families needing seven-passenger capacity. Cargo space differs substantially: GLE 350 provides 943-2,055 litres, GLE 450e offers 892-1,915 litres, and EQE 500 delivers 520-1,675 litres. Battery placement in hybrid and electric models reduces maximum cargo volume.
Climate Control and Summer Features
Quebec summer humidity and temperature swings require robust climate systems. Standard dual-zone automatic climate control handles front passenger preferences, while available four-zone THERMOTRONIC allows individual rear passenger temperature settings.
Premium trims add valuable summer features: heated and ventilated front seats manage temperature regulation, while Air Balance systems filter and purify cabin air. The EQE 500 includes pre-entry climate conditioning that cools the cabin while charging, preserving battery range for travel.
MBUX infotainment systems include Mercedes me connect services for route planning and real-time traffic updates. Wireless smartphone integration keeps passengers entertained during long highway stretches between major Quebec destinations.
Model Selection for Different Travel Styles
Each SUV excels in specific scenarios. The GLE 350 suits families prioritizing maximum cargo space and conventional refueling. Its 943-2,055 litres accommodates camping equipment for extended stays at provincial parks or beach gear for week-long maritime adventures.
The GLE 450e appeals to environmentally conscious travelers who want electric capability for destination exploration while maintaining hybrid range for highway distances. Electric-only mode handles quiet operation around campsites or early morning departures from hotels.
The EQE 500 works for forward-thinking families embracing Quebec's charging infrastructure expansion. Its 425-kilometre range covers most inter-city routes with confidence, while fast-charging capability transforms required stops into brief refreshment breaks.
Summer memories depend on choosing transportation that supports your adventures rather than limiting them. These three Mercedes SUVs offer distinct approaches to Quebec road trip requirements.
Start planning your summer adventures with a test drive comparison at Mercedes-Benz Laval – experience each model's unique strengths firsthand.
