NEW FOR 2016:
- New model
As a part of Mercedes-Benz’s new naming scheme all of its SUVs will be rebranded to reflect their position in the brand’s lineup relative to their car counterparts. The GLK will become the GLC, and down the road the GL will become the GLS. As for the M-Class, it becomes the GLE. But there’s more to the GLE than just a name change.
The GLE gets a thorough makeover inside and out, bringing it visually in line with the E-Class. A new front-end complete with revised grille and headlamps is joined by a new rear valance, while the interior gets an all-new dashboard, steering wheel, plus the latest COMAND system with an eight-inch infotainment system and touch controller. All models also receive trickle-down technology from higher-end Mercedes-Benz vehicles including crosswind assist, switchable drivetrain modes, and the neat Magic Vision Control windshield washer system (except GLE 63 S; reportedly, there wasn’t enough room left over for the system after installing its giant V8).
The GLE is available in five different models: GLE 350d, GLE 400, GLE 450 AMG (late availability), GLE 550, and GLE 63 S. While most engine designs are carried over, power outputs have increased – the GLE 350d makes 255 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque where the ML made 240 hp and 455 lb-ft; the GLE 63 S makes 577 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque whereas the old ML 63 AMG with the optional Performance Package developed 550 hp and 560 lb-ft. All vehicles receive an engine idle-stop system and Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive system. All models except the GLE 350d get a seven-speed automatic; the GLE 350d uses Mercedes’ brand new 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic. Although the GLE will be offered as a plug-in hybrid in other markets, for the time being it will not be sold in Canada.
Standard features shared between the GLE 350d and GLE 400 include 19-inch wheels, keyless start, automatic climate control, AMG styling package with sport front and rear valances, LED daytime running lights, LED tail lights, Mercedes-Benz logo puddle lights, side-view mirrors with integrated turn siganls, tonneau cover, rear privacy glass, 60/40 split folding rear seat, interior ambient lighting, power sunroof, leatherette upholstery, power heated front seats with power-adjustable lumbar support, heated steering wheel, power folding side mirrors, power tilt and telescoping steering column, push-button start, AM/FM/USB/Bluetooth/satellite radio with 8.0-inch infotainment display and COMAND controller, and chrome roof rails.
The Exclusive Package adds roller blinds for side rear windows, leather upholstery, leatherette dashboard upholstery, and air purification system.
Sport Package adds air suspension, adaptive dampers, and 20-inch wheels.
The Premium Package adds 115-volt power outlet, power tailgate, front and rear parking sensors, parking assist, 360-degre camera, heated rear seats, proximity key with push-button start, DVD drive, Harman/Kardon Logic 7 surround sound system, panoramic sunroof, and navigation.
The LED Intelligent Lighting System adds LED high performance headlamps and active high beams.
Intelligent Drive Package adds full-speed adaptive cruise control with steering assist, active blind spot assist, active lane-keeping assist, cross-traffic assist, and autonomous emergency braking.
Night Package adds black trim for grille, side mirrors, roof rails, window trim surround, and chrome tailpipes.
Key options include aluminum running boards, climate controlled cupholders, massaging multicontour front seats, trailer hitch, 20- and 21-inch wheels, and a wood and leather-wrapped steering wheel.
GLE 550 trim adds air suspension, navigation, active LED high performance headlamps, 20-inch alloy wheels, 360-degree camera, panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, leatherette-upholstered dashboard and door trim.
The Premium Package adds 115-volt power outlet, power tailgate, roller blinds for rear side windows, soft close doors, multi-contour front seats with massage, heated rear seats, proximity key with push-button start, climate controlled cupholders, DVD drive, Harman/Kardon Logic7 surround sound system, and aluminum running boards.
The Interior Sport Package adds Nappa leather upholstery, sport front seats, sport steering wheel, AMG velour floor mats.
The Enhanced Towing Package adds off-road package, trailer hitch, skid plates.
Intelligent Drive Package adds full-speed adaptive cruise control with steering assist, active blind spot assist, active lane-keeping assist, cross-traffic assist, and autonomous emergency braking.
Night Package adds black trim for grille, side mirrors, roof rails, window trim surround, and chrome tailpipes.
Key options include Bang & Olfusen Performance surround sound system, air purification system, climate front comfort seats, trailer hitch, 21-inch wheels, and a wood and leather upholstered steering wheel.
GLE 63 AMG S adds 21-inch wheels, AMG-specific grille, AMG-specific front valance, AMG sports seats in premium leather upholstery, AMG-specific steering wheel with flat bottom wrapped in leather and Dinamica, performance braking system, AMG-tuned 4Matic system with 40:60 torque split, Dinamica roof liner, AMG sports seats with Napa leather upholstery, leather upholstered dashboard and door trim, and AMG-specific instrument cluster with red and grey highlights, and Harman/Kardon Logic7 surround sound system.
The Premium Package adds 115-volt power outlet, power tailgate, roller blinds for rear side windows, soft close doors, multi-contour front seats with massage, heated rear seats, proximity key with push-button start, climate controlled cupholders, and aluminum running boards.
Intelligent Drive Package adds full-speed adaptive cruise control with steering assist, active blind spot assist, active lane-keeping assist, cross-traffic assist, and autonomous emergency braking.
Night Package adds black trim for grille, side mirrors, roof rails, window trim surround, and chrome tailpipes.
Key options include Bang & Olfusen Performance surround sound system, and an air purification system.
