Mercedes-Benz’s GLE Coupe, a competitor for BMW’s X6, has officially been released.
Although we had a pretty good idea about the exterior design of the car, looking at these pictures there are a few interesting angles which the camouflage of the test mules covered up rather well.
There is no denying the fact that this is a Mercedes-Benz. The side profile, especially the upper half, has a lot in the common with the new CLS, as well as the S-Class Coupé. The front is something to get used to, as we haven’t seen such a large nose section on a Mercedes-Benz before. This is also the case with the rear, although – again – the upper part is closely related to that of the S-Class Coupé.
Engine range
Three engines will be offered in the GLE range, for now. These will includes both petrol and turbodiesel derivatives. The power output range will start from 190 kW up to 270 kW, excluding the upcoming AMG model. For now the top-of-the-range model will be the GLE 450 AMG, the first “AMG Sport” model of its kind. This model will be fitted with Mercedes’s 9-speed automatic transmission sending torque to all four wheels via the 4Matic system.
Power outputs for the three launch models are as follow:
GLE 350 d 4Matic 190 kW/620 N.m
GLE 400 4Matic 245 kW/480 N.m
GLE 450 AMG 4Matic 270 kW/520 N.m
We expect the GLE63 AMG to be launched within the next two months.
Interior
The interior is a mix of the instruments and elements we have seen on the C-Class as well as the new S-Class. The infotainment system is a less free-standing unit though, as it is partially integrated into the dashboard.
The AMG Sport model is fitted with sport seats, black nappa leather AMG steering wheels while the pedals are covered in brushed stainless steel. Mercedes-Benz claims that the luggage area offers up to 1 650 litres of space.
Some technological highlights include the long list of safety features. One of these is the magic vision control, a system that incorporates the heated, adaptive windscreen wiper system, which according to Mercedes-Benz helps with forward vision during adverse weather conditions.
The AMG model
The AMG Sport model will be offered with upgraded bodystyling, including front and rear bumpers, a rear lip spoiler and huge 21-inch wheels (instead of the standard 20-inch items) for the 275/34 front and 315/40 section tyres at the rear. Oh, and if that is still too small, there will be 22-inch wheels available. They will be fitted with 285/40 tyres at the front and 325/35 section tyres at the rear.
Expect the GLE Coupé to arrive in South Africa during the middle of next year. The official public unveiling is set for next month at the Detroit Auto Show.
If you still not sure how the new naming strategy of Mercedes-Benz works, here is a quick reminder:
GLA SUV in the A-Class segment
GLC SUV in the C-Class segment; formerly GLK
GLE SUV in the E-Class segment; formerly M-Class
GLE Coupé SUV in the E-Class Coupé segment
GLS SUV in the S-Class segment; formerly GL
G unchanged
