STUTTGART: Mercedes-Benz has revised the GLE, its best-selling the SUV, featuring a more appealing front and rear and extensive measures which make new benchmarks with regard to emissions and the drive system possible.
Set for an unveiling at the New York auto show next month, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are reduced by 17 per cent on average compared with the predecessor model series (known as M-Class previously).
A plug-in hybrid SUV, the GLE 500 e 4MATIC, is offered for the first time, improving on the low fuel consumption figures of the efficiency champion the GLE 250 d with the four-cylinder diesel engine, while delivering the performance of a V8 model. The new GLE promises best on-road and off-road handling, outstanding spaciousness and high levels of active and passive safety. The high-performance SUV model, the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC, celebrates its world première at the same time.
The GLE introduces ground-breaking assistance systems, the nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and the DYNAMIC SELECT dynamic handling control system, which offers extensive drive and off-road programmes already in basic specification.
In the interior the larger media display stands out, which is now partially integrated into the instrument panel. The centre air vents next to the display and the outer air vents are framed by classy silver shadow surrounds. The centre console houses the COMAND controller with the touchpad fitted above.
GLE 63 AMG.
New interior colours now also include ginger beige, espresso brown, saddle brown or porcelain. 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. For the sporty-minded, they can choose high-quality AMG carbon-fibre trim.
With the start of the new GLE generation, all diesel models will be 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. The transmission is fitted with a new type of torque converter with a high efficiency of 92 per cent and a wide spread of 9.15 across the nine speeds. Both contribute to the high energy efficiency of the GLE models.
A double turbine torsional damper with centrifugal pendulum and the torque converter lock-up clutch with return spring ensure the extremely refined operation typical of the brand. Mercedes claims the 9G-TRONIC delivers fast and smooth gear changes “for delightful cruising and with gear-change strategies designed to increase traction in terrain.”
The drive system of the GLE 500 e 4MATIC comprises a BlueDIRECT V6 direct-injection petrol engine with 333hp and a hybrid module with 116hp of electric power. The system peak torque is 650Nm.
In addition to quick acceleration as a result of the boost function, the system drive also offers all-electric driving at speeds up to 130kph, optimised energy recovery thanks to the intelligent operating strategy and comfort functions such as pre-entry climate control in summer and winter.
The compact hybrid module is fully integrated into the seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. The electrical energy is stored in a lithium-ion battery with an energy content of 8.8 kWh, which can be recharged using public charging stations, the wallbox charger at home or on a conventional 220 volt power outlet. The charging time using the wallbox charger or the charging station is around two hours.
The extensive range of standard equipment of the new GLE is based on the predecessor model, enhanced with new assistance systems such as Crosswind Assist and COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS. ECO start/stop function, the DYNAMIC SELECT controller on the centre console, 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 are also part of the standard kit.
GLE 250.
Keyword: Mercedes-Benz boosts GLE appeal