Quebec Winter Driving: Complete Mercedes-Benz GLE Technology & Feature Breakdown

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE lineup offers three distinct powertrain options engineered for Quebec's demanding winter conditions. The efficient 2.0-litre mild-hybrid GLE 350 delivers 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The powerful 3.0-litre mild-hybrid GLE 450 produces 375 hp and 369 lb-ft. The versatile plug-in hybrid GLE 450e combines both powertrains for 381 hp and 479 lb-ft while offering 77 km of electric-only range.

Each variant shares core winter-ready technologies—4MATIC all-wheel drive, DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes, and available AIRMATIC suspension—while offering distinct advantages based on powertrain choice. Drivers in Mirabel and across Quebec can select the configuration matching their priorities: winter traction, power delivery, or electric range.

At a Glance: 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE Powertrain Options

4MATIC All-Wheel Drive: Foundation for Winter Confidence

Every 2025 GLE model features 4MATIC all-wheel drive as standard equipment. This fully variable system continuously adjusts torque distribution between the front and rear axles—from 0 to 100 percent—based on real-time road conditions. On snow-covered Quebec highways or icy Mirabel streets, 4MATIC responds instantly to wheel slip, redirecting power to the axle with the most grip.

The system operates with the GLE's stability control and traction management, helping maintain forward momentum when accelerating from a stop on slippery surfaces. During highway driving, 4MATIC enhances cornering stability by proactively shifting torque before wheels lose traction. This predictive approach reduces the need for corrective steering inputs, allowing you to maintain your intended path through winter curves and lane changes.

Key 4MATIC Winter Benefits:

• Instant torque redistribution for improved traction on snow and ice
• Proactive stability management reduces wheel slip before it occurs
• Confidence-inspiring handling on mixed winter road surfaces
• Operation requires no driver intervention

AIRMATIC Suspension: Adapting to Winter Road Conditions

Available AIRMATIC self-levelling air suspension transforms how the GLE responds to Quebec's challenging winter road surfaces. The system automatically adjusts ride height and damping rates based on driving conditions, cargo load, and selected drive mode. When encountering rough, snow-covered roads or navigating through deep slush, AIRMATIC maintains optimal ground clearance while absorbing impacts that would otherwise transfer to the cabin.

The suspension continuously monitors road conditions and adjusts each wheel independently, helping maintain tire contact with uneven winter surfaces. This adaptive behaviour improves both traction and stability when driving over snowbanks, potholes, or the irregular pavement common after freeze-thaw cycles. AIRMATIC also compensates for heavy cargo loads—such as winter sports equipment or supplies—by maintaining level ride height and preserving handling characteristics.

DYNAMIC SELECT: Tailoring Performance for Winter Driving

DYNAMIC SELECT allows you to adjust the GLE's performance character through console-mounted controls. Each mode recalibrates throttle response, transmission shift patterns, suspension settings (when AIRMATIC is equipped), and all-wheel-drive behaviour to suit different winter driving scenarios.

ECO Mode prioritizes efficiency during winter commutes, smoothing throttle inputs and optimizing mild-hybrid or plug-in hybrid energy management. The GLE 450e's ECO mode maximizes electric-only operation, preserving battery charge for emissions-free winter driving.

Sport Mode sharpens throttle response and holds gears longer, delivering immediate power for highway merging or overtaking on winter roads. The suspension firms up (with AIRMATIC) to reduce body roll, while 4MATIC biases torque rearward for more dynamic handling on cleared roads.

OFFROAD Mode adjusts traction control, throttle mapping, and transmission behaviour for low-grip surfaces. When navigating unplowed parking lots, snow-covered driveways, or rural Quebec roads after heavy snowfall, OFFROAD mode allows controlled wheel slip to maintain momentum. Downhill Speed Regulation activates in this mode, automatically controlling descent speed on slippery slopes without requiring constant brake pressure.

Individual Mode lets you create custom combinations of drivetrain, suspension, and steering settings. You might prefer Sport throttle response with Comfort suspension damping for winter highway driving, or ECO efficiency with Sport steering weight for urban commutes.

GLE 450e Plug-In Hybrid: Electric Winter Driving Without Range Anxiety

The GLE 450e adds plug-in hybrid capability to the lineup, combining a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with an electric motor and 23.3 kWh lithium-ion battery. The system delivers 381 hp and 479 lb-ft of combined torque while offering up to 77 km of electric-only range.

Electric motors deliver maximum torque from standstill, providing immediate traction when pulling away from snowy intersections or climbing icy hills. The instant response eliminates the brief lag associated with turbocharged engines, helping maintain momentum on slippery surfaces. Battery preconditioning ensures optimal performance in cold temperatures, while regenerative braking captures energy during deceleration.

The 77 km electric range covers typical daily commutes in Mirabel and surrounding areas without consuming fuel. Level 2 charging at 9.6 kW fully replenishes the battery in approximately 2.75 hours, making overnight home charging practical. Optional DC fast charging at 60 kW brings the battery from 10 to 80 percent charge in approximately 20 minutes at public stations.

GLE 450e Winter Advantages:

• Instant electric torque for confident starts on snow and ice
• Fuel-free daily commuting within 77 km electric range
• Transition between electric and gasoline power
• Regenerative braking reduces conventional brake wear in winter conditions

Heated Comfort Features for Quebec Winters

All 2025 GLE models include heated front seats as standard equipment, with available heated rear seats providing warmth for all passengers. The heated, power-folding 40/20/40 second-row configuration allows you to prioritize passenger comfort or cargo space depending on your winter activities. Climate Comfort front seats, available through the Exclusive Trim Package, add ventilation and enhanced heating surfaces for rapid cabin warming on cold Quebec mornings.

Dual-zone automatic climate control comes standard, with available 4-zone climate control allowing independent temperature adjustment for all seating areas. The system quickly brings the cabin to comfortable temperatures even in extreme cold, while 64-colour ambient lighting creates a welcoming environment during dark winter evenings.

Power-folding, heated side mirrors prevent ice buildup and maintain visibility in freezing conditions. The mirrors automatically fold when locking the vehicle, reducing exposure to ice and snow accumulation overnight. Heated front armrests and upper door panels, available in the Exclusive Trim Package, extend warmth to frequently touched surfaces.

Comparing Winter Capability Across GLE Models

Advanced Safety Systems for Winter Driving

The GLE lineup includes several driver assistance features that enhance safety during Quebec winters. Active Brake Assist monitors traffic ahead and can apply emergency braking if a collision becomes imminent—particularly valuable when stopping distances increase on snow-covered roads. ATTENTION ASSIST analyzes driving patterns to detect drowsiness, providing visual and audible warnings during long winter highway drives.

Blind Spot Assist with Exit Warning Assist monitors adjacent lanes and warns when vehicles occupy your blind spots. The Exit Warning component prevents rear doors from opening if cyclists or vehicles approach from behind—useful in urban winter conditions when snow banks narrow street widths and reduce visibility.

PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist simplifies parallel parking in tight winter spaces created by snow banks. The system identifies suitable parking spots, then controls steering while you manage throttle and brake inputs. Crosswind Assist helps maintain your intended path when strong winter winds push against the GLE's tall profile on exposed highways.

The available Driver Assistance Package adds Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, which maintains a set following distance in highway traffic, and Active Steering Assist, which provides gentle steering inputs to keep the GLE centred in its lane. These features reduce driver fatigue during long winter journeys while enhancing safety on monotonous highway stretches.

Choosing the Right GLE for Your Winter Needs

The GLE 350 4MATIC suits drivers prioritizing efficiency and lower operating costs while maintaining strong winter capability. Its 2.0-litre mild-hybrid powertrain delivers 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque—sufficient for daily winter driving in Quebec while achieving competitive fuel economy. The mild-hybrid system provides brief electric boost during acceleration, reducing fuel consumption without requiring plug-in charging.

The GLE 450 4MATIC appeals to drivers wanting stronger performance and more confident highway passing ability. Its 3.0-litre inline-6 produces 375 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, reducing 0-100 km/h acceleration to 5.6 seconds. The additional power proves valuable when merging onto winter highways, towing trailers in cold conditions, or carrying full passenger and cargo loads.

The GLE 450e 4MATIC targets drivers with predictable daily commutes under 77 km who want to eliminate fuel consumption for routine trips while retaining long-distance capability. The plug-in hybrid configuration delivers the strongest combined torque (479 lb-ft) in the lineup, providing immediate response on slippery surfaces. Home charging infrastructure makes the 450e most practical for homeowners with dedicated parking and access to 240-volt electrical service.

Experience the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE at Mercedes-Benz Blainville

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE lineup demonstrates how advanced powertrain technology, intelligent all-wheel drive, and thoughtful winter-focused features address Quebec's demanding winter conditions while maintaining the refinement and sophistication expected from Mercedes-Benz.

Visit Mercedes-Benz Blainville in Mirabel to experience how the GLE's winter features perform in real-world Quebec conditions. Our team can demonstrate 4MATIC all-wheel drive, DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes, and the plug-in hybrid system's electric-only operation, helping you determine which GLE configuration suits your winter driving requirements.