GLE gets its six-cylinder back
The crossover comes with a host of features to make it even more off-road-capable
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 say remain “true to its character as an offroader.”
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 hp and 369 lb-ft 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 four-popper, 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, mud.
The GLE is also much 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. The size doesn’t stop the off-roader from bagging the best drag coefficient in its class with a 0.29 Cd rating, improving fuel consumption.
Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) has been upgraded and debuts two large 12.3-inch screens as standard, arranged in front of the driver lengthwise like a widescreen TV. MBUX now has off-road driving modes and displays to match the new suspension. As with previous generations, gesture control, AI assistant, navigation, and smartphone integration is available in the 2020 GLE.
New active safety features are also available, including cyclist warning; oncoming-traffic automatic braking; and a cruise control function that will come to a complete stop and restart in gridlock.
The 2020 GLE will make its official debut at the 2018 Paris Motor show and will go on sale later in 2019. Pricing has not yet been announced.