Mercedes-Benz GLE

Model Launch Date

The facelift for the Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV is only available in a long wheelbase version in India. It can be had in two BS6 2 diesel engine options and one BS6 2 petrol engine option. The new GLE gets an additional wheelbase of 80mm, thereby offering more space to the rear seat occupants. The legroom in the second row has been increased by 69mm over the previous generation, while the headroom of the new GLE at the rear has now been extended by 35mm.

Engine

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is available with two BS6 diesel engine options. The 300d is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine that generates 265bhp and 500Nm of torque. This engine is capable of sprinting from 0-100kmph in 7.2 seconds. The second diesel option, the 450d, is powered by a 3.0-litre, six-cylinder diesel engine that generates 375bhp and 750Nm of torque. This enables the SUV to hit the 100kmph mark in 5.8 seconds. Then, the new petrol engine is a 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder unit producing 265bhp and 550Nm. All three engines come mated to the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and with 4MATIC AWD.

Exterior

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is sleeker and longer than its predecessor. The company claims that the GLE has good aerodynamic properties with a best-in-segment drag coefficient of 0.29. The taillights are divided into two sections, which gives an impression of width to the SUV and adds to its sporty appeal. In terms of safety, the GLE 400d gets nine airbags, while the GLE 300d gets seven airbags in addition to standard safety features like active brake assist and blind spot assist. The 400d further gets the E-ACTIVE body control suspension, which is combined with the newly developed AIRMATIC air suspension. The company claims that this is the only system in the market where the spring and damping forces can be individually controlled at each wheel. This means that it not only counteracts body roll but also pitch and squat.

Interior

The new GLE gets all the modern premium features like premium leather upholstery, large touchscreen infotainment system, ambient lighting and more. The large touchscreen gets the MBUX system with a ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice prompt along with gesture controls. Moreover, the SUV offers ample boot space of 825 litres, which can be increased to 2,055 litres when the second-row seat is folded down.

Safety

This facelifted GLE has not been tested for a GNCAP crash test rating.
Rivals

The GLE facelift takes on the BMW X3, Audi Q3, Volvo XC60, and the Jaguar F-Pace.
Last updated on 2 November, 2023