Meet the 2nd generation Mercedes-Benz GLE. Unveiled just before the Paris Motor Show, this 7-seat SUV now comes fitted with more technology than before. Along with with new a range of engines, this larger GLE now has a sophisticated chassis and drivetrain that increases its off-road abilities while also improving its on-road manners.
The GLE 450 4Matic will deliver 362bhp and 369lb ft of torque and is given a 22bhp and 184lb ft boost by the 48V electric motor for short driving periods. A diesel engine and a plug-in hybrid version will follow.
The GLE will carry a 9-speed automatic gearbox and 4matic all-wheel drive with all engine varaints. In the base GLE, its four-wheel-drive system that distributes torque equally to both axles is only available with the 2.0L 4-cylinder variants. The GLE 450 and 6 and 8-cylinder versions will have a centrally mounted clutch pack that will be capable of sending 100% of the engine’s torque to whichever axle the car thinks needs it the most whether that’s during off-road driving or on the road to improve the car’s dynamics.
This GLE’s 48V electrical subsystem not only boosts the engine, but has enabled Mercedes to improve its anti-roll system. The E-Active Body Control has hydropneumatic units atop each air spring that can counter roll and pitch.
A set of cameras scan the road ahead so the system can prepare the chassis for each bump and corner before the car reaches it; for example, it can lean into a corner as soon as the driver turns the wheel. This new suspension system is a more advanced version of the Magic Body Control found on the S-Class.
This new GLE’s interior is made up of two 12.3-inch screens and uses the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system that debuted on the latest A-Class.
The new final 3rd row of seats is made possible by a long 2995mm wheelbase, 80mm longer than before. The selling prices of this new GLE will only be announced later this year when Mercedes will starts taking orders.
