The new GLE from Mercedes-Benz will get a new engine configuration next year. The 2020 GLE 580 will be available with a 4.0L turbocharged V8 working with an integrated starter-generator (ISG) that will kick in in certain situations to reduce fuel consumption. Fed by a 48-volt electrical system, the unit will also provide power to run the water pump and the climate control system’s compressor.
In braking situations and when cruising at constant speed, the light-hybrid system will recover energy to be used to supplement the gas engine when strong acceleration is called for.
The new 2020 GLS makes use of the same system, also in the 580 configuration.
Official output for this new configuration of the GLS is 483 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. When the electric motor kicks in, it adds another 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. The standard transmission is a 9-speed automatic box, and the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system is included in all versions.
For the rest, the GLE with V8-light hybrid combo will be impressively equipped. In addition to the two 12.3-inch screens that provide access to the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system and to the driving data, the vehicle comes with adjustable dampers, the AMG sport visual package and a third row of seats, as well as augmented-reality video for the navigation.
As mentioned, the 580 variant becomes the most muscular performer of the model range, at least until the 600-hp GLE 63 AMG version launches.
Mercedes-Benz will also present entry-level GLE 350 and GLE 450 versions when the model debuts later this year.
