GLE remains true to its off-roader character

Mercedes-Benz revealed its all-new 2020 GLE crossover mid-September, the replacement for the third-generation M-class, in production since 2011.

The crossover offers a slew of interesting new features that Mercedes says remain “true to its character as an off-roader.”

Without a doubt, one of the most exciting new features of the GLE is the return of the straight-six engine, equipped in the GLE 450.

Making 367 horsepower and 369 pound-foot of torque from 3.0 turbocharged litres, it will be paired with the brand new 48-volt hybrid system that manages the EQ Boost function and acts as an integrated starter generator.

Standard GLE 350s will receive a 2.0-litre turbocharged fourpopper, with 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. Both engines will send power to all four wheels via a 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission, and 4Matic AWD.

E-Active Body Control manages the new air suspension and uses the 48V electric system to give the best ride possible. Individual parameters of the ride can be controlled to counteract roll, pitch and squat. There is also a neat feature called “Free-driving Mode,” which bounces the car up and down to free it from sand, snow and mud. The GLE is also taller, wider and longer than the vehicle it replaces, at 70.7 inches tall, 76.7 inches wide and 194.3 inches long; all of that contributes to 2.7 inches more rear legroom, and 1.3 inches of added third-row headroom.