Mercedes GLE

In recent times we have seen how, together with the renewal of the range in the signature of the star, its nomenclatures were updated to conform to the new strategy of the brand. This was the end of mythical names such as the CL, CLK, SLK, GLK and ML, to give rise to the updated ones, such as this Mercedes GLE.

Launched on the market in 2012, the third generation of the latter was updated at the end of 2015 and adopted the GLE name among many other improvements. In addition, it is now available with a spectacular coupe-like body.

Exterior design

With the latest renovation, the new Mercedes GLE has received a completely renewed front end with smoother lines and curved surfaces, in keeping with the newest models of the firm. This translates into a stronger grille and Full LED headlights . An AMG exterior package can also be included which does not do the car justice as it has large opaque air intakes.

The rear is the area that has undergone the least changes, limiting itself to a bumper of new shapes and some drivers who have seen their interior design updated. Even more striking is the Coupé version, since it has a pronounced roof drop from the B-pillar that ends in a forceful rear inspired by the coupe versions of the C-Class and S-Class.

Outdated interior

However, where the passage of time is most noticeable is in the cabin. Although it has a fairly modern dashboard, a new steering wheel and a multimedia system with a touch pad for its control, the rest of the interior has the look of the previous generation of Mercedes cars. It is a problem also attributed to the small GLA.

We will have to wait for the arrival of the new generation of the GLE to have a cabin to the latest. In the meantime, you’ll have to settle for this combination of up-to-date technology and outdated design.

Diesel or hybrid?

The GLE mechanical range is fed by a couple of diesel options and an interesting hybrid option. As for the first two, they are the GLE 250 d and 350 d. The first of these is an in-line four-cylinder block that delivers 204 hp and 500 Nm of maximum torque, with which it reaches 100 km / h in 8.6 seconds.

Regarding the GLE 350 d, it is a V6 block with a power of 258 hp and 620 Nm of maximum torque, with which it reaches 100 km / h from standstill in 7.1 seconds. In addition, this mechanic is the only option in the coupe version if we do not count the versions signed by AMG.

Finally, the hybrid version. It’s called the GLE 500 e, and it’s a great plug-in hybrid that combines a 333 hp V6 petrol engine with a 116 hp electric motor. It can travel 30 kilometers at 120 km / h completely electrically, although the most negative point is the recharging time: 4 hours.

All versions have 4MATIC all-wheel drive as standard, while for the transmission the brand makes use of two different models. In general, it uses a 9-speed automatic transmission, while the hybrid uses a 7-speed transmission.

Prices

The rates to get a Mercedes GLE start from 61,450 euros for the smallest diesel, a figure that increases to 69,925 euros for the most powerful engine. As the only option available with the sporty bodywork, it will be necessary to pay 80,375 euros for the GLE 350 d Coupé.

In turn, the hybrid variant is only available with the standard bodywork, at a minimum price of 75,850 euros, from which state aid cannot be deducted as is already the case with the GLC and E-Class hybrids.

Mercedes GLE data

• 5 doors
• 5 seats
• Trunk: 690 and 650 liters (Coupé)
• 4MATIC all-wheel drive
• Four-cylinder in-line and V6 engines with outputs of 204, 258 and 449 hp
• Consumption and emissions: from 5.7 L / 100 km and 149 g / km of CO2

• 7 and 9 speed automatic transmission
• Price: from 61 450 euros