2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Is the Traditional SUV We Want
Think of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class as a redesigned M-Class because, well, that’s what it is with a new name, refreshed styling and a ton of engine options you can read more about here. Before the GLE-Class debuted, Mercedes released a more radical-looking SUV called the 2016 GLE-Coupe, which has a sporty shape that has more in common with the BMW X6 than anything in Mercedes-Benz’s lineup. The GLE you see here is the mainstream, non-coupe GLE SUV that most shoppers are probably most interested in.
Related: More 2015 New York Auto Show News
I poked around a GLE350 and the high-performance, 577-horsepower GLE63 S, which goes from zero to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, at the 2015 New York International Auto Show and found a lot to like.
The GLE350’s redesigned front styling aligns nicely with the look of Mercedes’ other new products like the CLA-Class and C-Class. The grille, bumpers, headlights, fenders and hood all get the treatment that works well on the large GLE SUV. It’s a cleaner yet beefier appearance over the previous front styling. Otherwise, the profile is styled similarly to the outgoing SUV, and the rear only sees minor changes.
Mercedes hit a home run with its floating Comand display in the C-Class sedan, and the GLE receives a similar treatment. The SUV’s center dashboard redesign features a “semi” floating display with extremely high-quality graphics controlled by a rotary knob and a touchpad. The interior also features new color and trim choices, though the overall style should feel familiar to current M owners.
One area that I’m surprised didn’t get any attention is the dials for the climate controls and buttons in general; neither look nor feel as high quality as some Mercedes redesigns like the C-Class.
Inside the AMG version are even higher-quality materials and textures plus a new three-spoke, flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters and suede-like material. The small size and materials surrounding the steering wheel could easily be mistaken for the same piece in the AMG GT sports car. Other than the cheapish control surfaces that are the same as those found in lower-end models, everything else inside the AMG gives off a luxurious vibe appropriate for what will likely be a $100,000-plus performance SUV.
More on the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class:
Video: 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
