Mercedes announces new GLE prices & specs
Mercedes-Benz has updated its Lexus RX and BMW X5 rival, the GLE, with next-generation engines, enlarged internal dimensions and a third row of seats.
Luxury car maker Mercedes-Benz today published the specs and pricing info for its bigger, more connected GLE model.
Increased space, additional tech
Mercedes gave the GLE an additional 70mm of legroom for rear passengers and you can now optionally spec the large SUV as a seven-seater. Benz says this hasn't been possible since the first-gen M-Class.
Buyers can expect dual 12.3-inch digital instrument screens, as well as a head-up display. The interior lighting is adjustable with 64 colours so you can set the perfect ambience. The Merc will also pair with the Mercedes Me Connect app. This allows owners to start the car up remotely, track its location and even preload the sat-nav. The interface also conveniently notifies you if your GLE is due for a service.
Handling can be honed with the optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL system. This suite of tech scans the road surface with cameras, pre-empting variations and adjusting the suspension to compensate. The GLE can also lean into corners, giving passengers another level of comfort. The underside of the GLE is clad in aerodynamic shielding that helps improve fuel economy, and the optional AIRMATIC pack brings air suspension and adaptive dampers.
Next-generation engines
The GLE will go on sale with the choice of two diesel engines and a petrol powertrain. A 2.0-litre, four-pot turbodiesel engine generates 180kW and 500Nm in the Mercedes-Benz GLE 300 d 4MATIC. For the 400 d 4MATIC, the power jumps to 243kW and torque rises to 700Nm, thanks to an inline-six, 3.0-litre oiler. Both engines are mated to a 9G-Tronic automatic transmission.
For petrol enthusiasts, the GLE 450 4MATIC has a turbocharged, 3.0-litre, six-cylinder power plant. The traditional engine is also supplemented by Mercedes' 48-volt EQ boost system. The petrol engine generates 270kW and 500Nm, while the mild-hybrid set-up offers up to 250Nm of electric assistance and 16kW of power under acceleration.
Safety equipment
The GLE range has a reassuring number of standard safety assists that are rapidly becoming the expected norm.
These include:
- Nine airbags
- 360° surround view camera system
- Active Parking Assistant
- Active Distance Assist
- Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic alert
- Active Steering Assist
- Active Lane Change Assist
- Active Blind Spot Assist
- Pre-crash preparation system
Mercedes-Benz GLE Australia pricing
| Model | List price |
|---|---|
| Mercedes-Benz GLE 300 d 4MATIC | $99,900 MRLP |
| Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC | $111,700 MRLP |
| Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 d 4MATIC | $118,500 MRLP |
MRLP prices include GST and LCT, but not dealer delivery and on-road costs.
Images: Supplied
