Mercedes-Benz GLE First Look Review

As a part of its midlife makeover, the Mercedes-Benz ML-Class is about to be thoroughly refreshed. And besides the usual practice of upgrading both design as well as mechanical bits, Mercedes India will also rechristen the premium mid-size SUV as the GLE. This new model will officially arrive in the Indian market on October 14, 2015.

On the outside, the GLE retains the overall shape of the current ML-Class but adopts the new Mercedes family look. As a result, nearly all the design elements appear more angular and more aerodynamic compared to the squarish design of the outgoing car. The creases on the bonnet have become prominent while in select versions, the bumper now gets a pseudo bulbar element like the GLA. In profile, the GLE retains the overall shape of the ML-Class including the prominent C-pillar which signifies the third row. The rear, however, remains nearly the same with revisions coming in the form of different taillight detailing and a new bumper. 

Inside, Mercedes hasn’t fiddled too much with the overall layout of the cabin or the dashboard. However, the brand has carried out a few noticeable upgrades in the form of a sportier-looking 3-spoke steering wheel, new design for the air vents and a different display for the COMAND infotainment system. Feature wise, one can expect the India-spec GLE to come with updated ambient lighting, rear seat entertainment package as well as a more advanced version of the COMAND. Interior trims, meanwhile, are expected to vary between leather and alacantera depending on the variant. Overall, the GLE has managed to bring the cabin of the old ML-Class in line with Merc’s modern range of cars based on the brand’s MFA architecture. 

Globally, the GLE range can be had with up to four engine options although the India-spec cars will continue to be offered with either the 258bhp, 3-litre V6 diesel or the 203bhp 2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine. What we hope will come as a welcome upgrade is the brand’s new 9-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox that will replace the old 7-speed unit. The new GLE will eventually be followed by the high-performance GLE63 AMG which will make use of the monstrous 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 engine that develops 525bhp of power and 700Nm of torque. 

When launched, the new GLE will lock horns with the BMW X5 and the latest-generation Audi Q7 which is due for launch in the Indian market. Globally, Mercedes also sells the sleek looking GLE Coupe, however, it remains to be seen whether Mercedes-Benz will contemplate this BMW X6-rivalling model for the Indian market.