Mercedes-Benz has finally launched the updated ML class now christened as GLE under Merc’s new nomenclature. The new SUV is offered with choice of two diesel engines and it is priced at Rs. 58.90 lakhs for GLE 250d and Rs. 69.90 lakh for the top GLE 350d (ex-showroom Delhi). With festive season on full swing, it’s just a perfect time to launch a new model. With a new moniker and refresh design, GLE is here to launch Volvo XC90, BMW X5 and upcoming Audi Q7.
Both the variants are approximately 2 lakh premium over the current ongoing models.
Engine Details:
The SUV is available with range of engines in International markets but for India New GLE SUV is available with only a diesel engine option and power trains are same as the ongoing ML class. The GLE 250 d variant gets a 2143cc In-line engine capable out 201bhp@3800rpm power and peak torque of 500Nm between 1600-1800rpm. The top end GLE 350d equipped with a V6 engine that churns out max power of 254bhp@3800rpm and 620Nm torque@1600rpm.
Both these engines come paired to an in-house made nine-speed 9G-TRONIC transmission that replaces the conventional seven speed gearbox. Acceleration from 0 to 100 kmph on the 250d is achieved in 8.6 seconds with Top speed is at 212 kmph while the acceleration time goes down to 7.1 seconds on the 350d with 225 kmph as top speed. The SUV is available with five drive modes- comfort, Sport, Slippery, individual and even off-road which wasn’t present on the model it is replacing.
Space and Dimensions:
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is a full fledge proper five seater SUV with dimensions stand at 4819mm in length, 2141 mm in width and 1796 mm in height. It possesses a massive wheelbase of 2915 mm to ensure finest in-cabin space while boot capacity stands at humungous 690 liters which is further extendable to 2010 liters with rear seats completely folded.
Exterior and Interior:
On the design outline, new GLE retains the overall styling of ML class but with some alterations like a twin slat angular front grille with new look chrome insert and sweptback high performance headlamps carrying LED brow. The bonnet gets some revisions along with revamped bumper to add sporty feel to the tough yet elegant design of the SUV. The side profile remains same except for the new 18 inch alloy wheels and 19 inchers for the 350d variant.
At rear, it gets a tweaked two piece LED taillights with fibre optic technology and two chrome plated tailpipe exhausts. The GLE SUV also comes with some healthy chrome treatment on beltline, side skirts, roof rails, front and rear skids.
On the inside too, there hasn’t been any drastic changes to the new GLE as compared to ML class. The updated ML class aka GLE SUV comes with a new flat bottom three spoke leather wrapped steering wheel with multifunction buttons, new AC vents, a fresh layout of buttons on central console, an updated 7 inch freestanding COMMAND infotainment system (8 inch for 3504d) with pre-installed navigation and W-Fi hotspot. The black dashboard gets the silver accents which looks decent while manmade ARTCIO leather upholstery on seats up the luxurious factor of the cabin.
In terms of goodies it is loaded with automatic climate controls with three zones and three climate modes, keyless go function, memory package for front passenger seats, touchpad with multi-touch sensors which let you easily access navigation, bluetooth, video, internet and audio. The customers will have an option to choose different colors of leather upholstery and various finishes for the dashboard.
Safety:
Safety features are present in abundance on new GLE SUV in the form of six airbags, electric parking brake, reversing camera, attention Assist, Pre-Safe System, 360 degree camera, attention assist, Brake Assist, ABS (anti-lock braking system), ESP (electronic stability program), cruise control with ‘SPEEDTRONIC’ speed limiter, central locking with crash sensor, electronic immobilizer, acceleration skid control (ASR), three pointer seat belts for all seats, tyre pressure monitoring system, hill start assist and many more.
Mr. Roland Folger, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India said: “The GLE is a very special product for all of us at Mercedes-Benz. The M-Class which established the luxury SUV segment in 1997 has been one of the most successful models for Mercedes-Benz globally till date, with more than 1.6 million units sold. The GLE has all the attributes to be a worthy successor and continue the success story of the best-selling M-Class. With its sporty and serene appearance, clear and sensuous design idiom combined with typical attributes of a modern off-roader; the GLE will create new segment benchmark. We are launching yet another winning product for our discerning Indian customers, today”
