EXCLUSIVE: New Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV To Launch In January 2020 With Prices Starting From Rs 90 Lakh On-road

• Visually, the 2020 GLE looks like a mini GLS inside-out which is no bad thing.
• Noted features include MBUX infotainment system, E-Active Body Control and a Burmester sound system.
• Comes with three BS6-compliant powertrains: two diesels and one petrol.
• Its rivals include the Audi Q7 and BMW X5.

Mercedes-Benz India will launch the 2020 GLE SUV in January 2020 ahead of Auto Expo 2020, as per dealer sources. We have received information that prices will start from Rs 90 lakh (on-road). Bookings for the new GLE have already begun for a token of Rs 5 lakh. It will come in three variants with three BS6-compliant powertrains, and 4MATIC all-wheel drivetrain as standard.  

The 2020 GLE looks looks like a mini GLS, which is a good thing. The front end is now upright and comes with Merc’s twin-slat grille that houses the tri-pointed star. These are flanked by the new LED headlamps that come with Mercedes’ twin eyebrow DRLs. In profile, the GLE looks familiar to the existing model thanks to an almost identical roofline and glass area. The dual-tone alloy wheels and body cladding further adds to its imposing stance. At the rear, the GLE mimics the GLS’ rear end with sleek split LED tail lamps and a dual exhaust setup.  

Inside, the new GLE’s dashboard teaches us the meaning of opulent. The dashboard is dominated by two big screens -- a digital driver’s display and a touchscreen infotainment system -- and utilises Mercedes’ MBUX operating system. Below the infotainment are the four AC vents and the aircraft style toggles for the climate control.  

Features in the new GLE include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 4-zone climate control, Burmester sound system, active parking assist, ambient lighting, electrically adjustable rear seats, cruise control, AIRMATIC air suspension as well as powered front seats with memory seats. Safety features include 7 airbags, ABS with EBD, park assist, electronic stability program, a 360-degree camera as well as front and rear parking sensors. A leaked document reveals the exact variant-wise features of the 2020 GLE SUV.  

The document also states that the India-spec GLE will come in three variants -- GLE 300d, GLE 450d and GLE 400 -- with varying powertrain options. All three engines are BS6-compliant and comes with Mercedes’ 9-GTRONIC automatic transmission. It comes with Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive system as standard. Here’s a detailed explainer of all the powertrain options:

The new GLE will be displayed at the Auto Expo 2020 where you can get a first hand look at it. When launched here, it will take on the likes of the Audi Q7, BMW X5 and the Volvo XC90. Stay tuned to ZigWheels for further updates on this space.