After we saw the new GLE Coupe during the Detroit Motor Show, in January, we now have the chance to meet its standard brother, the 2015 GLE. We know that the name is not familiar, so we have to clear the problem.
Mercedes is renaming its full range of SUV`s, and the old ML is now becoming GLW, as a resemblances of its platform shared with the E-Class. So the new GLE is in fact the new ML facelift. The design was revised, the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are reduced by 17 percent on average compared with the predecessor model and the drivetrain was improved.
Exterior
Radiator grille, bumpers, headlamps, wings and the bonnet with its two power domes follow the current lines of Mercedes vehicles. New headlamps with the daytime driving lights forming the brand’s hallmark eyebrows and the current lamp layout – optionally as LED Intelligent Light-System – blend with the front end. The tail end of the GLE features new LED lights and redesigned bumper.
Interior
In the interior the larger media display stands out, which is now partially integrated into the instrument panel. The centre air vents next to the display and the outer air vents are framed by classy silver shadow surrounds. The centre console houses the COMAND controller with the touchpad fitted above in an optimal ergonomic position.
GLE Standard Features
The extensive range of standard equipment of the new GLE is based on the predecessor model, enhanced with new assistance systems such as Crosswind Assist and Collision Prevent Assist. ECO start/stop function, the Dynamic Select controller on the centre console, the revised multifunction steering wheel as well as the Audio 20 CD infotainment system with 7-inch display and communications module for the use of Mercedes connect me services are also part of the standard delivery scope.
Mercedes GLE Engines
The 204-hp four-cylinder diesel model GLE 250d offers low fuel consumption for this class of vehicles. It is the world’s first production full-size SUV with conventional drive that emits just 140g of CO2/km (52.3 mpg). No less impressive is the first Mercedes-Benz SUV with plug-in hybrid technology.
A system output of 442 hp in the GLE500e 4MATIC guarantees performance – with CO2 emissions of just 78 g/km (85.6 mpg). With a power consumption of 16.7 kWh/62 miles, the GLE500e 4MATIC is the benchmark in this market segment. In addition, the hybrid model is capable of up to 18.5 miles of all-electric driving. The drive system components comprise a BlueDirect V6 direct-injection petrol engine with 333 hp and a hybrid module with 116 hp of electric power. The system peak torque is a massive 650 Nm.
The compact hybrid module is fully integrated into the seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. The electrical energy is stored in a lithium-ion battery with an energy content of 8.8 kWh, which can be recharged using public charging stations, the wallbox charger at home or on a conventional 220 volt power outlet. The charging time using the wallbox charger or the charging station is around two hours.
