Mercedes-Benz has finally unleashed the first photos of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE, which marks the first time that the SUV has been fully redesigned since it ditched the old M-Class name. The 2020 GLE keeps the same shape that started with the old M-Class back in 1997, but it borrows styling cues from the rest of the lineup to give it a more modern look.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE not only looks more modern and athletic than its predecessor, but it’s also more aerodynamic as well. The new GLE has a Cd figure from 0.29, the best in its segment, which should also improve its fuel efficiency. Mercedes-Benz highlights the fact that the 2020 GLE’s long wheelbase, short overhangs and large wheels allude to the fact that the GLE can tackle any terrain, while the exterior follows the brand’s latest design language – sensual purity.
Inside the 2020 GLE gets a more modern interior with the focus point being the dual 12.3-inch digital screens that dominate the dashboard, which features the MBUX – Mercedes-Benz User Experience infotainment system. The optional MBUX Interior Assistant lets the driver and front passenger operate specific functions by simply moving their hands or arms. When a hand approaches the touchscreen or the Touchpad on the center console, the media display changes and individual, elements are highlighted. On cool feature is that the system is able to distinguish the driver’s hand from that of the front passenger, and therefore knows which seat the massage function is to be activated on. The MBUX system also features artificial intelligence, which lets it learn certain patterns from the driver.
Thanks to a 3.1-inch longer wheelbase there’s also more legroom than before and due to a more upright A-pillar, the front area feels more spacious than before. The second row seats are now almost just as comfortable as the first row, since they can be adjusted with six fully electric adjustments. Lastly there’s an optional third row seat that turns the GLE into a seven passenger SUV.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE will arrive with a range of engine options, including a 2.0L Inline-4 turbo engine for the GLE 350 and GLE 350 4MATIC that produces 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. The new 3.0L in-line six-cylinder turbo engine with EQ Boost in the GLE 450 4MATIC features 48-volt technology and produces 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. All the GLE’s engines are mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission.
A new 48-volt E-Active Body Control suspension is debuting on the GLE, which is now combined with the Airmatic air suspension. Mercedes-Benz says that it’s the only only system in the market where the spring and damping forces can be individually controlled at each wheel.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE will arrive in the U.S. in 2019.
Source: Mercedes-Benz
