Mercedes Benz GLE Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Preview

Expected Launch: October, 2015

Mercedes-Benz’s mid-size SUV will also undergo a major change like its larger sibling the GL.

The biggest change is that this car will now be called GLE as compared to the outgoing model which is called the ML-Class. It gets cosmetic updates but no mechanical changes. The vehicle was launched for the European market recently.

Exterior

The Mercedes-Benz GLE retains the overall shape as the current ML-Class but gets new bumpers both in the front and rear. The shape of all the external elements has now moved from a square (ish) design to more angular shapes that give the silhouette a more aerodynamic design.

The creases on the bonnet have become prominent while in some variants the bumper now gets a pseudo bulbar element like the GLA. The headlights are now larger and have LED elements in them as standard.

On the side, the GLE retains the overall shape of the ML-Class including the prominent C-pillar which signifies the third row. The rear profile too has been retained from the ML-Class right down to the prominent lower lip that sits between the bumper and the boot door.

Interior

The interior of the GLE seems to have elements from the new C-Class as well as the MFA models. However, the overall layout as well as some of the control surfaces has been carried from the older vehicle. There are some updates in terms of features like ambient lighting, rear seat entertainment package as well as the COMAND infotainment system. Interior trims are expected to vary between leather and alacantera depending on the variant.

Engine and gearbox

While the GLE is globally offered with four engine options, the India-spec GLE will continue to be offered with the 3.0-litre V6 diesel which produces 258bhp and 619Nm of torque and the 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel that produces 203bhp/500Nm. The standard version gets a seven-speed AT and 4MATIC AWD system. The standard GLE will be followed by the GLE63 AMG which will make use of the 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 that produces 525bhp/700Nm and is mated to the 7-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT transmission.

Price and competition

We expect a minimal price change from the current model. It competes with the BMW X5 and the Audi Q5 in the Indian market.