Mercedes Benz GLE-Class

Overview:

Entering the automobile market in distinct style, the new Mercedes-Benz GLE takes a distinctive place in Stuttgart's SUV lineup. It is a heavily revised version of the current W166, which is now renamed coupe, it gets a refreshed exterior and interior, new technology and a range of updated engines, including a plug-in hybrid. The two turbo diesel engines are speculated to carry over, producing a 204 PS of maximum power output along with a 500 Nm of torque with the 2.1-litre biturbo four-pot unit in the GLE 250d. The other variant, GLE 400 generates a power output of 333 PS and peak torque of 480 Nm equipped with 3.0-litre V6 engine. Company claims that the new GLE Class SUV is of state-of-the-art and efficient drive technology, combined with superior ride quality and the versatility and robustness typical for SUVs. It has all the ingredients to continue the success story of Mercedes-Benz's best-seller! The hallmark C-Pillar and the variable interior with the wellness factor of a luxury vehicle enrich the Mercedes-Benz GLE experience. There are only little changes appointed to this SUV then its recently launched Coupe version. The only thing separating the two from the front is the grille, which has two slats on the GLE rather than just one on the Coupe. Furthermore, the GLE impresses with ground-breaking assistance systems, the nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and the innovative DYNAMIC SELECT dynamic handling control system, which offers extensive drive and off-road programmes already in basic specification. Agility Control steel suspension is offered as standard, while retuned Airmatic suspension with ADS variable damping is available as an option.

Mileage and Fuel economy:

The GLE offers superior performance with an all-time low fuel consumption for this class of vehicle. The GLE 250d delivers a fuel efficiency in the range of 16.9 kmpl to 17.54 kmpl while the fuel efficiency of GLE 400 lies in the range of 10.87 kmpl to 11.36 kmpl.

Power:

The dynamism displayed by the desirable GLE SUV is a result of the powerful engines running under the hood of the car. Among the two variants, the most furious is said to be GLE 400 4MATIC with a 3.0-litre direct-injection twin-turbo V6 engine, which produces an output of 333 PS and a peak torque of 480 Nm. On the other hand, GLE 250d is powered by a 2.1-litre biturbo four-pot  engine which churns out a maximum power of 204 PS while the peak torque measures 500 Nm.

Acceleration and Pickup:

Mated with the power house is a 9G-Tronic automatic transmission, that avails you with a nimble response at varied engine speed. One can clock 100 kmph mark in a fascinating time span of 4.2 to 4.3 seconds, and the top speed measures about 250 kmph depending on the variant you go for. In addition, the hybrid model is capable of up to 30 kilometers of all-electric driving.

Exterior:

Mercedes-Benz has thoroughly revised its best-seller in the SUV segment. The highlights of the new GLE include considerably more appealing front and tail ends and extensive measures which make new benchmarks in the particular segment. The characteristic design of this luxury-SUV blends tradition and modernity. The characteristic C-pillar and the harmoniously integrated rear side window have been an integral part since this model series started in 1997. Radiator grille, bumpers, headlamps, wings and the bonnet with its two power domes follow the current sensuous and clear design idiom of Mercedes-Benz. Especially the harmonious, organic transition of the two radiator louvers to the central Mercedes star is convincing. New headlamps with the daytime driving lights forming the brand's hallmark eyebrows and the current lamp layout. The new wings with their arched wheel wells lend the entire front end more harmony and presence. New LED tail lamps now glow in the brand's hallmark night design. Also striking are the redesigned tailpipe embellishes firmly integrated in to the lower section of the bumper. Front and rear bumper furthermore are fitted with the likewise characteristic three-dimensional chrome-look under ride guard.

Exterior Measurements:

New design of Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV is characterized in a new design template and flares classic style elements on its outward. Dimension wise it measures 4819 mm long, 1935 mm wide and 1796 mm tall along with a wheelbase of 2915 mm.

Interior:

The interiors of this exclusive SUV have been carried over from the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe. With high quality cabin trims and efficient functionality the interior of the GLE SUV may make you feel wrapped with luxury all around. In combination with the black high-gloss surround this emphasizes the sophisticated design of the interior. The centre console houses the COMAND controller with the touch pad fitted above in an optimal ergonomic position. New colors make the interior even more attractive and lend it the feel-good atmosphere that is typical of the brand. The choices now also include ginger beige, espresso brown, saddle brown or porcelain, which in combination with black interior elements create an interesting contrast. In addition to the standard aluminium with light-coloured longitudinal grain, the large trim elements are also available in a version featuring a particularly classy black piano lacquer or various types of wood - open-pore brown ash wood or the shiny wood types brown eucalyptus, black poplar or brown burred walnut. And especially sporty minded customers can choose high-quality AMG carbon-fibre trim.

Interior Comfort:

The leather covered steering wheel accompanies twelve ergonomic function keys that not only ease down operating various operations but also lends a sporty touch. The heating function of the steering wheel comes with some nice functional control, that offers a decent system operation without letting your hands off the steering wheel. The centre air vents next to the display and the outer air vents are framed by classy silver shadow surrounds. Many storage compartments are intelligently designed to help an individual store their knick-knacks and the significant boot space results in ample leg room, head room and shoulder room for the occupants that further leads to pleasant driving experience.

Interior Measurements:

Generous interior of the SUV settles some nice luggage area, thus making it an ideal vehicle for distant tours. Open the tail gate and you could get decent boot space that can be further enhanced by rear seats packed up.

Engine and Performance:

The thrilling driving experience of GLE is governed with a range of engine choices. Among the two variants, the GLE 400 4MATIC is powered by a 3.0-litre direct-injection twin-turbo V6 engine which is capable of delivering a maximum power of 333 PS along with a peak torque of 480 Nm. On the other hand, the GLE 250d is employed with a 2.1-litre biturbo four-cylinder  engine which churns out a maximum power of 204 PS while the peak torque measures 500 Nm. The 250d  is equipped with the nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission as standard, for the first time also with the optionally available off-road reduction gear and inter-axle differential lock. On the other hand, GLE 400 is mated with a 7G-TRONIC plus transmission. Moreover, both of these transmissions sends power to all the four wheels.

Stereo and Accessories:

The state-of-the-art cabin is well equipped with advanced technology, that caters to the entertainment needs of the occupants in the form of a well-configured list of features. The car is equipped with the revised multifunction steering wheel as well as the Audio 20 CD infotainment system with 7-inch display and communications module for the use of Mercedes connect me services. The latest generation of COMAND Online offers perfect infotainment with a 20.3-cm (8-inch) display and intuitive touchpad. The system comprises, among other things, a DVD player and traffic sign recognition including wrong-way warning function.

Wheels:

The performance SUV also impresses with dominance when viewed from the side. Wheel arch flares in vehicle colour provide space for the large wheels. The GLE 250d is anchored with 17-inch alloy wheels surrounded by tires measuring 235/65 R17 while GLE 400 is anchored with 18-inch alloy wheels surrounded by tires measuring 255/55 R18.

Braking and Handling:

In the GLE SUV, the Active Curve System roll stabilisation system can be combined with the AIRMATIC package with air suspension and ADS or with the Off-Road Engineering package. The system uses active anti-roll bars on the front and rear axle and compensates the roll angle of the body during cornering. This enhances agility and driving fun. All models are equipped with the Agility Control steel suspension as standard. The Dynamic Select system provides four settings (individual, comfort, slipper and sport) equipped with 4Matic all-wheel drive to get an extra Offroad mode. Specifying the optional Off Road Engineering pack nets an additional Offroad+ setting to increase the ride height to 285 mm.

Safety and Security:

New standard driver assistance systems include Collision Prevention Assist Plus and Crosswind Assist, while an optional Driving Assistance Plus pack adds Distronic Plus with Steering Assist with Stop&Go Pilot, pedestrian-detecting Pre-Safe Brake, BAS Plus with Cross Traffic Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist as well as Pre-Safe Plus. Other options include an powered Easy-Pack tailgate, Active Parking Assist with Parktronic and a COMAND Online infotainment system with a larger eight-inch screen. Even more, for the first time in this segment, Mercedes-Benz is offering a power extendible and retractable trailer coupling, which also includes ESP® trailer stabilisation. The towing capacity of the GLE is up to 3500 kg.

Pros:

• Enhanced performance figures
• Luxurious interiors
• Composed ride

Cons:

• Could have restyled exterior styling
• Still, needs to look after competition against its rivals