Defining class in the luxury SUV segment: Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLE Coupe now available in South Africa

The GLE’s lineage began with the M-Class. With it, Mercedes-Benz established the premium SUV segment in 1997. The global success continued with the GLE launched in 2015. The current model series followed in 2018. The GLE and GLE Coupé are produced at the Tuscaloosa Mercedes-Benz plant (USA).

Mercedes-Benz has now updated the exterior, interior, technology and equipment of the model generation launched in 2018. The engine range is now electrified throughout. It includes mild hybrids with a 48-volt system and Integrated Starter Generator (ISG). Most models now have more power than the previous versions.

Exterior design: new daytime running light signets

A number of detailed changes to the exterior give the GLE SUV and GLE Coupé a distinctly more modern appearance. The new front bumper provides more visual presence. Two horizontal louvres with chrome inserts run through the radiator grille of the GLE. The grille of the outer air intakes has been given a horizontal chrome finish.

The so-called light flare in the headlamps is characteristic of Mercedes-Benz. With the standard LED High-Performance headlamps, two light points complement the distinctive daytime running light signet, while with the optional MULTIBEAM LED there are four light points. The designers have also revised the interior of the tail lights: on the GLE, the light signet is formed by two horizontal blocks, on the GLE Coupé it is two bars.

The AMG Line exterior is now standard on the GLE Coupé. Elements of this line include the diamond grille with Mercedes-Benz pattern in chrome, the AMG front apron with chrome trim, AMG side sill panels and wheel arch cladding in the vehicle colour, as well as the AMG rear apron with diffuser-look insert.

Fresh additions to the colour palette of these two SUVs are sodalite blue metallic and MANUFAKTUR alpine grey solid. The ambient lighting with animated projection of the Mercedes-Benz pattern is available as a new optional extra.

Interior: with fine details from the Mercedes-Maybach GLS and Mercedes S-Class

New on board the GLE and GLE Coupé is the latest-generation steering wheel with sensor surfaces on the horizontal spokes. With these touch elements on the right and left, the driver can operate the driver and central displays from the steering wheel.

A special eye-catching feature in the interior is the chrome look of the centre and side air vents. Previously they were edged in black, but now the slats are galvanised in real metal, as in the Mercedes-Maybach GLS. For the interior colours, the equipment combinations catalana beige/black (GLE SUV) and bahia brown/black (GLE SUV and GLE Coupé) have been added. The black/classic red appointments available exclusively for the coupé and in combination with AMG Line are particularly sporty.

The trim range continues to be broadly diversified between classic and progressive. Familiar from the Mercedes-Maybach GLS and now also available for the GLE SUV and GLE Coupé is the “MANUFAKTUR piano lacquer black flowing lines” trim. If black appointments are selected, the seats are available in a nappa leather finish. With ambient lighting, the same colours and colour palettes can be selected as in the S-Class. Two USB ports (optional extra) delivering 100 W of power are available in the rear armrest as practical charging options.

The premium audio system Burmester® surround sound system which now also features the personal sound setup as well as the Dolby Atmos immersive audio experience. Thirteen speakers, 13 separate amplifier channels and a system output of 590 watts are further features of the Burmester® surround sound system.

Newly available as an optional extra is ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL. The system monitors air quality using air quality and fine particle sensors. A two-stage filter concept reduces fine particles and a large proportion of other pollutant components. Depending on the measurement value, the vehicle intelligently switches between fresh air and air-recirculation modes.

Latest generation of MBUX: intuitively operated and capable of learning

With the second generation of the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, the GLE and GLE Coupé are now also up to date. The vehicle interior becomes even more digital and intelligent, as both the hardware and software have made great strides: numerous vehicle and comfort functions can be controlled on the LCD screens in brilliant display views. The sizes of the driver and central displays, each measuring 12.3 inches, have been retained. The central display can be operated directly and conveniently as a touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now available wirelessly.

The driver and central displays offer a holistic, aesthetic experience. They present information in a structured and clearly defined way. The appearance can be individualised with a total of three display styles (classic, sporty, discreet) and four modes (navigation, assistance, service, off-road).

Powertrain: systematic electrification

Thanks to mild hybrids with 48-volt technology and the Integrated Starter Generator, the GLE SUV and GLE Coupé are now electrified throughout. Most models now have more power than the previous versions.

“The original ML, launched in 1997 set the luxury benchmark within the SUV segment. The refreshed Mercedes-Benz GLE once again reaffirms its position within the SUV segment as the luxury leader. The GLE Coupe adds an extra level of emotive styling that is unrivalled on the road. The latest GLE carries the DNA of the iconic G Class with the very latest in technology and refinement” Mark Raine co-CEO Mercedes-Benz South Africa

“Sporty yet elegant – the latest GLE offers much in terms of technology that has trickled down from the S Class. The drivetrain features new technical enhancements and the latest addition, the GLE 450 d packs a potent punch while remaining efficient. The GLE Coupe undoubtedly stands out as the dynamic and sporty sibling.” Alex Boavida Vice President Sales and Marketing MBSA

Technical data at a glance