Though technically a new model, the GLE is largely based on the outgoing ML. However, the GLE does feature several exterior design updates, including new headlights with Mercedes’ signature “eyebrow” treatment, revised front bumper and a more stylized hood. The GLE also gets new-look LED taillights.
Inside the GLE the most notable departure from the current ML is a new 7-inch screen located atop the center stack. The ML’s knob-based infotainment controller has also been replaced with a touch-based unit located between the front seats.
The letters may have changed, but the numbers on the back of Mercedes’ mid-size SUV mostly carryover unchanged for 2016. That means buyers can expect to see a GLE350 model powered by a 302-horsepower 3.5L V6, a GLE400 powered by a 329-horsepower 3.0L twin-turbo V6 and a GLE63 AMG powered by a 550-horsepower 5.5L turbocharged V8. However, there are a few new comers to the GLE stable.
The most notable new model is the GLE550e, which uses a plug-in hybrid drivetrain — a first for a Mercedes SUV. That plug-in hybrid system consists of a 329-horsepower turbo V6 and a 114 horsepower electric motor. Total system torque stands at 479 lb-ft.
Backed by an 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery that can be recharged in about two hours, Mercedes says the GLE550e can drive on electricity alone for over 18 miles at speeds of up to 81 mph. The GLE550e should be good for around 70 mpg on the U.S. cycle.
A diesel will also be offered in the form of the GLE300d. Although a numerical increase over the last-generation ML250 BlueTEC, the GLE300d actually uses the same 2.1L four-cylinder as before. Output is also unchanged at 201 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
On the opposite side of the spectrum, a new GLE63 AMG S model will be available for order. A GLE63 AMG cranked to 11, the S model boasts 577 horsepower and 561 lb-ft of torque, reducing the time required to go from 0-60 to just 4.2 seconds.
New safety features across the range include Collision Prevention Assist, PRE-SAFE PLUS and Crosswind Stabilization. Available upgrades are set to include an AIRMATIC Air Suspension, heated rear seats, soft close doors, panorama sunroof and a harman/kardon surround sound system.
Of note, all 2016 GLE model will ship with a version of Mercedes’ seven-speed automatic transmission, but 2016.5 GLE400s will be upgraded with a new nine-speed gearbox. Mercedes didn’t say if other GLE models would eventually get the nine-speed transmission.
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