Mercedes-Benz’s facelifted GLE SUV arrives in India on November 2: All you need to know
The Mercedes-Benz GLE, updated and revealed globally in January, is finally making its way to India. With the upgrade comes subtle, yet stylish exteriors, more technology, and better powertrains.
Earlier this year, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the facelifted GLE and GLE Coupe SUVs, with their global sales slated for later. The SUV is now set to come to India alongside the Mercedes-AMG C 43 on November 2. The update brings not only stylistic changes but also powertrain upgrades. Mercedes is known for its up-to-date technologies and the GLEs have also been updated in that respect. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
2/9
It's not known if the Coupe will launch with the standard version now or later. In any case, the differences are minimal and only on the exterior. Starting off with the design, the GLE’s exterior gets some fairly subtle changes. The front fascia gets revamped bumpers and a grille that features segments on the central slat. The headlamps retain the basic shape of the current GLE, but get new lighting signatures along with a refreshed LED DRL design. In profile, there is a new set of alloys, while the rest of the cuts and creases remain largely identical. At the rear, the only difference is the new lighting signature in the tail-lamp units. The pictures here are of the GLE with the AMG Line package that change up the bumpers and grille, and add side skirts to the SUV. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
3/9
The GLE Coupe gets mostly the same updates as the GLE. The headlamps and tail lamps retain the basic shape but get different lighting signatures. The Coupe, however, gets the AMG Line styling package as standard. This includes the diamond-patterned front grille, sportier bumpers and unique side skirts. The biggest difference between the Coupe and the GLE is the sloping roofline. While taking away some headspace for the rear passengers, the Coupe aesthetic lends the SUV an extremely sporty stance, which looks ready to go anytime. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
4/9
The bulk of the changes come in the form of updated powertrains. The entire GLE range has now been electrified with three mild hybrid options as well as two plug-in hybrids. At the start of the range is the GLE 300 d. This 2-litre diesel is capable of producing 269 hp of maximum power and 550 Nm of peak torque. Next is the GLE 450 d, a 3-litre, 6-cylinder turbo-diesel that generates 367 hp of maximum power and 750 Nm of peak torque. And finally, the GLE 450, a 3-litre turbo-petrol that generates 381 hp of maximum power and 500 Nm of peak torque. All these powertrains are mated to a 48-volt mild hybrid system. Thanks to the integrated starter generator (ISG) in these systems, all variants receive a 20 hp power boost and a 200 Nm torque boost. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
Then you have two plug-in hybrid options. Both plug-ins feature the same 32.2 kWh battery pack that powers a 136 hp/440 Nm electric motor. Because of this, both variants receive an impressive WLTP-claimed electric-only range of up to 105 km. As far as the combustion engines go, the GLE 350 de is a 2-litre turbo-diesel that generates 197 hp and 440 Nm, equating to a total system output of 334 hp of maximum power and 750 Nm of peak torque. The GLE 400 e is a 2-litre turbo-petrol that generates its own 252 hp and 400 Nm, allowing for a total system output of 380 hp and 600 Nm. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
6/9
Mercedes-Benz has beefed up the interiors and features, too. While the dashboard retains the same basic shape and design, touches of chrome and new trim finishes freshen up the interior. There is a new steering wheel plucked out of the S-Class, with touch-sensitive controls. The highlight, however, comes in the form of Mercedes’ latest MBUX software that runs the infotainment system. The dual 12.3-inch touchscreen and driver’s display have been retained, but with the new software there is greater functionality and the improved voice assistant now controls more of the vehicle’s functions. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
7/9
For a more connected feeling, Mercedes has added the Smart Home function. This allows the SUV to network with a selected WLAN address and, using sensors and actuators, enables one to control electronic appliances such as shutters, lights, and temperature. A request to check if the house is occupied can be made by saying, “Hey Mercedes, is there anybody in my home right now?” (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
8/9
More tech upgrades come in the form of driving assistance systems such as active distance assist, steering assist and traffic sign recognition. As part of an optional off-road package, the GLE gets the ‘transparent bonnet’ function. This works in conjunction with the 360-degree camera to give you a view of what’s under the front of the car, allowing for better judgement when driving in areas with many bumps and holes. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
Pricing can be expected in the region of Rs 93 lakh. This compares with the current GLE’s Rs 91.5 lakh starting price tag. As far as rivals go, the Mercedes-Benz GLE competes against the Audi Q7, BMW X5 and the Range Rover Velar. (Image: Mercedes-Benz)
Stanford Masters Journalist who writes on automobiles
