As far as luxury SUVs go, Mercedes-Benz kickstarted what is today’s hottest segment with its M-Class when it debuted back in 1997. But gone is the M-badging, replaced with the GLE-Class, and for 2020, the German automaker has updated their best-selling sport utility with a healthy dose of innovations, an enhanced interior with more space, and tweaked exterior features including improved aerodynamics.
The company sums it up, ”Significantly more space in the interior, considerably extended and refined assistance systems, the best aerodynamics in the segment, a new range of engines, and numerous other innovations emphatically underline this.”
2020 GLE Trims Available
In North America, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE was available in several models and trim levels to cater to various customer preferences. Here are the GLE grades that were available (full engine specs and power figures for each engine end of this article):
- GLE 350: The base model typically has a 2.0L inline-4 engine.
- GLE 450: A popular choice, often featuring a 3.0L inline-6 engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology.
- GLE 580: Known for its robust 4.0L V8 engine, providing even more power and performance.
- GLE 350 4MATIC: The base model with Mercedes-Benz’s all-wheel-drive system.
- GLE 450 4MATIC: Similar to the GLE 450 but with the added benefit of 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
- GLE 580 4MATIC: The high-performance V8 model with all-wheel drive.
- GLE 450 4MATIC Coupe: A coupe-like version of the GLE 450 with all-wheel drive and a distinct design.
- GLE 580 4MATIC Coupe: The coupe variant with a powerful V8 engine and all-wheel drive.
- Mercedes-AMG GLE 43: A sporty AMG model with a 3.0L V6 engine and performance enhancements.
- Mercedes-AMG GLE 53: Another AMG option with a more potent inline-6 engine and sportier features.
Of course, if you want to ramp it up, check out this 630-hp Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet SUV
New GLE SUV Release Date
The updated SUV will arrive at dealerships in early 2019 in the US and mid-2019 in Canada. Expect a range of new engines to mix as well. Pricing for 2020 GLE hasn’t been released, but we’ll have this once officially announced.
Produced out of their Tuscaloosa, Alabama plant in the US, the premium SUV’s official debut will take place October 4th, 2018, at the Mondial de l’Automobil in Paris.
If the GLE doesn’t fit your lifestyle, Mercedes-Benz offers five models in total, including the GLA, GLC, GLC Coupe, GLE, GLE Coupe, GLS, and G-Class.
2020 GLE Interior: New Infotainment Setup
MB increased cabin space for the new model, offering a third row as optional. But the most significant change is the completely redesigned — or as Mercedes puts it, wholly reimagined — infotainment system, which includes a large standard screen and optional 720 x 240 pixels full-colour head-up display.
Exterior Updates: Improved Aerodynamics
The GLE’s long wheelbase paired with the short overhangs and large, flush-fitted wheels position this a more luxurious off-roader, though you may not view it that way.
As Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer at Daimler AG, puts it, “The GLE exhibits iconic Mercedes-Benz design while remaining true to its character as an off-roader…It perfectly embodies our design philosophy of sensual purity and represents modern luxury.”
Aside from the usual aesthetic tweaks here and there, the most significant exterior change in the new model is the improved aerodynamics — best-in-class, according to MB. Overall, this all helps reduce fuel consumption, which is always a good thing.
Under the Hood: 2020 GLE Performance
There are a couple of options, including a gas-powered, 6-cylinder GLE 450 4MATIC and the four-cylinder GLE 350 4MATIC. The former will put down 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, while the EQ Boost technology enhances performance over short periods with a further 184 lb-ft of torque and 21 hp. Both are mated to a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission.
Model | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | 0-60 mph Acceleration (Approx.) | Top Speed (Approx.) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
GLE 350 / GLE 350 4MATIC | 2.0L Inline-4 Turbo | 255 hp | 273 lb-ft | 7.0 seconds | 130 mph |
GLE 450 / GLE 450 4MATIC | 3.0L Inline-6 Turbo w/ EQ Boost | 362 hp (w/ EQ Boost) | 369 lb-ft (w/ EQ Boost) | 5.5 seconds | 130 mph |
GLE 580 / GLE 580 4MATIC | 4.0L V8 Biturbo | 483 hp | 516 lb-ft | 4.9 seconds | 130 mph |
Mercedes-AMG GLE 43 | 3.0L V6 Biturbo | 385 hp | 384 lb-ft | 5.3 seconds | 155 mph (electronically limited) |
Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 | 3.0L Inline-6 Turbo w/ EQ Boost | 429 hp (w/ EQ Boost) | 384 lb-ft (w/ EQ Boost) | 5.2 seconds | 155 mph (electronically limited) |