Mercedes-Benz GLE

EXTERIOR

The sporty design and strong build quality of the exteriors have been enhanced with an updated equipment list. At the front, there is a new set of High Performance LED headlamps with a sculpted bonnet and a new grille. The LED headlamps can be upgraded for Multibeam LED if you take the higher variant.

The side profile gets new 19-inch alloy wheels which can be upgraded for 20-inches, roof rails and you also get side illuminated running boards with rubber studs. The electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs get a brand projection feature. At the rear, there are a new set of LED split tail lamps, dual exhaust pipes, skid plate and a rear spoiler for added sportiness.

INTERIOR

Mercedes-Benz GLE interiors are all new and luxurious with the facelift. The interior gets wooden insert all over the cabin such as the central console, dashboard and door panels. The Panoramic sliding sunroof and large window area open up a sense of airiness. Premium features offered are 4-Zone automatic climate control, leather seats, and leather steering wheel. Convenience features include an electric tail gate, wireless charging and USB ports for the rear occupants too.

The rear passengers also get electrically adjustable seats, rear AC vents and electric sunblinds. There are two 12.3 inches wide screens that are placed on the dashboard. One of them is the instrument console and the other one is an infotainment system. The touchscreen infotainment system comes with the latest MBUX operating system and also features Android Auto, voice commands and Apple CarPlay. The driver gets a multi-function steering wheel, heads up display and a digital instrument cluster which can be configured in multiple ways. The digital instrument cluster also shows a multi-information display that shows vital information to the driver.

The car also features connected car technology through Mercedes me connect application on the mobile phone. Various functions that are offered with the application are vehicle monitoring, vehicle set up, emergency call system etc.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE

Mercedes-Benz GLE specs come with two diesel engines. The 300d gets a 4-cylinder engine that produces a max power output of 245hp @ 4,200rpm and a peak torque output of 500Nm @ 1,600- 2,400rpm. The 400d gets a 6-cylinder that produces a max power output of 330hp @ 3,600 – 4,200rpm and a massive torque output of 700Nm @ 1,200 – 3,200rpm. Both of the engines are mated to a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly and drives all the wheels through the 4MATIC all wheel drive system. Both of the engines are BS6 compliant.

The fuel economy of Mercedes-Benz GLE is 17.9 kmpl as per the ARAI claim. The mileage factors vary depending upon the driving mode selected. The ECO start/stop system gets better fuel economy by reducing losses during start/stop driving conditions.

Mercedes-Benz offers different riding modes which alter the driving characteristics of the SUV. The performance of the motor is powerful because of the massive torque that kicks in early in the rev range. The ride quality of the SUV is also compliant and can handle the bumps and potholes of our Indian roads. The vehicle feels planted and confident on the highways. Mercedes-Benz GLE 300d can hit a ton in 7.2 seconds and the GLE 400d can reach 100kmph in just 5.7 seconds, which is pretty quick for an SUV of this size. The top speed of GLE 300d is 225 km/h while the 300d can hit 245 km/h.

BRAKING AND SAFETY

The braking system of Mercedes-Benz features internally-ventilated brake discs with special air-ducts, which provides a flow of air onto the brake discs for optimized cooling. The safety system includes six airbags with two front airbags for the driver and co-passenger with the adaptability of opening, according to the severity of impact, two side airbags at the front, and two large curtain airbags for the rear seat occupants assuring complete protection during collisions.

There is also a tyre pressure monitoring system that warns you when the air pressure drops. You can also opt for a Parking Package that comes with a 360-degree parking camera. However, you do get rear parking sensors and reverse parking camera as standard. There is also Blind Spot Assist function that warns the driver if there is a car in the blind spot of the driver.

CONCLUSION

The Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 4MATIC has an ideal combination of luxurious interiors and high-performance factors with the advanced dynamic control features. The SUV is aimed towards those who are looking for a luxurious yet performing SUV.