Once known as the ML, the Mercedes-Benz GLE is the second most important SUV the brand makes, aside from the GLC, from a commercial perspective at least. There's an updated version of the GLE, which has made its way to local shores. We recently joined the German brand in the Western Cape to drive the range, and here's what you need to know.
Related: 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé First Drive Review
What's new?
On the face of it, you'd need to be familiar with the outgoing model to notice the changes made to the exterior, which include a new front bumper, a revised front grille, and a new signature inside the rear lights are the vital exterior changes. Two new exterior colours have also been added to the range, namely sodalite blue metallic and Manufaktur alpine grey solid.
Inside, the brand's current-generation steering wheel has been fitted, along with its touch-sensitive pads, something which we're still not entirely convinced by. Still, they appear to function better than in other products with similar systems. The brand has also changed the surface colour of the air vents, which are now finished in metal instead of plastic. New interior colour options are also available in the Coupe and SUV derivatives.
Perhaps the most significant upgrade inside includes the latest generation MBUX infotainment and digitised instrument cluster, which feature 12.3-inch screens housed within a rectangular slap fixed atop the dashboard. The system features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and integrated navigation. In the case of the instrument cluster, a host of different display styles allowing the user to customise their experience, which we have found is enhanced by matching the interior ambient lighting to the style of gauge or driving mode you have opted for!
One Coupe derivative
The Coupe version on these non-AMG models will only be available in 450d guise and AMG Line flavour, which means a diamond grille with a Mercedes-Benz pattern in chrome, an AMG front apron with chrome trim, AMG side sill panels and wheel arch cladding in the vehicle colour, as well as the AMG rear apron with diffuser-look insert.
Drivetrains
For the moment, the GLE range has three engine options. At the entry point is the 300d, a four-cylinder turbodiesel with a 48-volt mild hybrid set-up with outputs of 198kW and 550Nm, with an extra 15kW and 200Nm of torque courtesy of the electrical assistance. Despite a kerb weight of around 2 200kg, the entry-level GLE performs well, with a 0-100km/h time of 6.9 seconds and a claimed fuel consumption figure of 6.8 L/100km.
Moving up the range, there is a 2 989cc six-cylinder turbodiesel motor, which produces mighty figures of 270kW and 750Nm of torque, with 15kW and 200Nm added from the electrical system. This engine is available in both the SUV and Coupe body shapes and will propel the models to 100km/h in under 6.0 seconds while consuming diesel at a claimed rate of roughly 8.0 L/100km. Finally, there's a turbocharged six-cylinder petrol motor that produces 280kW and 500Nm of torque, with the same 15kW and 200Nm added from the 48-volt system. This model will sprint to 100km. h in a claimed 5.6 seconds while using fuel at a claimed rate of 9.5 L/100km. The range features the brand's 4Matic all-wheel drive system and the 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox.
Driving impression
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Verdict
The updated GLE brings what this writer believes is the first mid-size Mercedes SUV to best BMW's mighty X5 in many areas, which is more up-to-date regarding in-car tech and packaging. Pricing is always a bugbear in this segment, and, on the face of it, the GLE appears expensive. Although we envision many a buyer will opt for one of the brand's leasing schemes to own one of these in any case.
While we're inundated with news of an ever-increasing electric vehicle presence within the global automotive sphere, a quick jaunt across the Western Cape in a potent diesel-powered luxury SUV serves as a reminder that luxury comes in many forms, and the old oil burners still have so many virtues to offer prospective buyers, opt for the 450d!
Pricing*
GLE 300 d 4MATIC- R1 964 600.00
GLE 300 d 4MATIC 7-seat- R1 984 000
GLE 450 4MATIC- R2 075 400
GLE 450 4MATIC 7-seat R2 094 800
GLE 450 d 4MATIC- R2 041 500
GLE 450 d 4MATIC 7-seat-R2 060 900
GLE 450d 4MATIC Sports Coupe- R2 340 500
* Pricing included CO2, VAT as well as a 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan and road side assistance.
