2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLE63 unveiled

As we reported a few months ago, Mercedes-Benz has phased out the ML nomenclature in their mid size SUV for a more standardised GLE-Class moniker. Apart from a new badge though, the new GLE also gets a facelift just like on the recently launched Mercedes-Benz B-Class. The new GLE also gets upgrades to its mechanical side making it more powerful and of course more fuel efficient than ever before.

On the exterior front, the GLE feature a new set of headlamps and a larger more angular grille than before. The grille with its twin slat design and centrally mounted three-pointed-star though still is reminiscent of the older ML’s striking design elements. The trademark angular C-pillar and large tail lamps still remain though although the tail lamps have been reworked to make them look more modern and up to date. The GLE also gets LED headlamps for the first time further improving the GLE’s appeal. The AMG version on the other hand gets a more aggressive front bumper and wider wheel arches that fuse into each other seamlessly. The front bumper in particular remind us of the design trend that was started by the likes of the E63 AMG a few years ago. The rear bumper too is more pronounced on the AMG version with the quad exhaust pipes taking centre stage.

The interior gets updated too with an even larger screen than before which is now partially integrated into the instrument panel. The air vents too have been encased with a classy silver surround which in turn is set into the gloss black dashboard itself. The GLE is also available in a variety to trim options such as open-pore brown ash wood or the shiny wood types like brown eucalyptus, black poplar or brown burred walnut. Younger and especially sporty minded customers can also choose high-quality AMG carbon-fibre trim with a sporty seat leather combination.

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On the mechanical front, the GLE in India will be available with a choice of two diesel engines : the GLE 250d and the GLE 350d. The GLE 250d gets an output of 207Ps of peak power while the GLE 350d makes 262PS of peak power and 620Nm of peak torque. The GLE will also come with a range topping GLE63 AMG version in India with a 5.5-litre twin turbo V8 engine making close to 593Ps of peak power and a soundtrack that can raise the dead. All engines will come mated to Mercedes-Benz’s all-new 9G-TRONIC nine-speed dual clutch gearbox.