Talk about a product offensive. Mercedes-Benz has debuted a new model or concept car at a rate of almost one a week in recent times. The most significant for South African buyers is the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLE, which was unveiled by the company this week.

A French debut

The new model, which is the latest in the family of mid-size SUVs, is set to make its public debut at the Paris motor show in a few days from now. As seen above the Mercedes-Benz GLE is an all-new model from the ground up.

Most obvious cue is the fact that the new model boasts completely new styling. An SUV can’t really hide from boxy proportions; Mercedes designers have tried to give the new GLE a modern-looking visage.

Click here to see the Mercedes-Benz GLE’s biggest rival, the BMW X5.

An octagonal front grill, chrome-plated under guard and two powerdomes on the bonnet underline its power and go-anywhere credentials. Careful interplay between aesthetics and aerodynamics has helped the GLE to a class-best drag coefficient of 0,29.

New inside, too

Inside the cabin, the new Mercedes-Benz GLE is all-new as well. A new layout, as well as the adoption of the company’s latest infotainment system, brings the SUV in line with the rest of its passenger car offerings. MBUX – Mercedes-Benz User Experience features two large 12,3-inch screens as standard. The instrument cluster and media display is legible on the large, high-resolution screens.

Mercedes claims that the newcomer has also grown in volume. An 80 mm longer wheelbase creates more room for passengers in the rear. Legroom in the second seat row has increased by 69 mm. In a first for the segment, buyers can option the rear seats with individual electrical adjustment. Luggage capacity is said to be up to 825 litres. Should one require, a folding third row of seats can be optioned.

Powertrain options

The Mercedes-Benz GLE range will kick off with an in-line six-cylinder in the GLE 450 4Matic with EQ Boost. More engine options, as well as a plug-in hybrid will be available in time.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4Matic features 48-volt technology. Peak power is rated as 270 kW with 500 N.m of torque. An additional 250 N.m of torque and 16 kW is available via EQ Boost over short periods. All variants of the new GLE will be fitted with a 9G-Tronic automatic transmission.

Mercedes-Benz has paid particular attention to the off-road systems. The company states that with careful networking of the electronic and braking systems the new GLE is better off-road than its predecessors.

Click here for in-depth info.