We’re done with the teasers: Mercedes-Benz has released comprehensive details and a ton of full-monty images of its redesigned new 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE. The SUV will make its official in-the-flesh debut at the Paris Motor Show taking place in October. Production is expected to start soon afterward, and deliveries should commence in spring 2019.
What’s new
The exterior design, while clearly still identifiable as a product of the brand, does show an evolved, more rounded and streamlined version of that trademark look. The vehicle is built on a notably longer wheelbase (80 mm longer, to be exact) and, according to Mercedes-Benz sets a new standard in the segment for aerodynamics. Check out our full photo gallery.
On the inside, a marking feature is the new dual screen configuration we saw recently in the automaker’s upcoming electric EQC. That longer wheelbase means the interior is larger, in fact a third row of seats is available as an option. The second-row seats are six-way power-adjustable.
In the front row, those on the passenger side can access several of the multimedia system’s functions and some other elements like reading lights through available gesture control technology.
The infotainment system has larger screens, a full-colour head-up display with high resolution and the new MBUX Interior Assistant.
The new Active Stop-and-Go Assist system enables the GLE to recognize traffic jams early on, actively supporting the driver in stop-and-go traffic up to 60 km/h. Also new is the system called Active Brake Assist with Cross-Traffic Assist when turning across the opposite lane. If there is a risk of collision when turning across the path of oncoming vehicles, the vehicle will automatically brake when traveling at low speeds.
The powertrain
The base-model GLE 350 is equipped with a 2.0L 4-cylinger turbo engine able to generate 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. This can be combined with the available 4Matic all-wheel drive system, a first for the GLE model. This fully variable system controls the torque distribution between the front and rear axle from 0-100% depending on the selected driving mode.
Those who choose the GLE 450 get a 3.0L 6-cylinder turbo engine, the output of which is 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. This engine actually works with an electric motor that delivers an added 21-hp boost for brief periods. This version of the SUV comes with the all-wheel drive system as a standard feature. A 9-speed automatic is the standard transmission in this trim.
At the outset only these two configurations of the model will be available to consumers. We can expect them to be augmented by plug-in hybrid and AMG-badged versions, and most likely a high-performance AMG edition.
The 2020 GLE will feature a 48-volt electric suspension, E-Active Body Control, which complements the new air suspensions system and is designed to minimize body roll, pitch, and squat. What’s more, this system will automatically work to free the vehicle when stuck in mud or sand.
