2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE officially unveiled

Mercedes-Benz officially revealed the 2016 GLE, which is basically a facelifted M-Class but adopting the German brand’s new nomenclature. It is set to debut at the 2015 New York Auto Show.

Under the hood, all the engines are now turbocharged. The petrol engines include the 333 hp 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine and the 435 hp 4.7-litre turbocharged V8 motor.

The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 features a 5.5-litre turbocharged V8, producing 557 hp and 700 Nm, while the GLE 63 S gets 585 hp and 760 Nm of torque. All models get the 7G-TRONIC PLUS gearbox.

Performance shows figures of 0-100 kph in 4.3 seconds for the standard AMG model and 4.2 seconds for the S version, while both have a top speed electronically limited to 250 kph. Fuel economy is rated at 11.8 l/100 km.

There is a new hybrid model, called the GLE 500e 4Matic, which combines a 3.0-litre V6 BlueDIRECT engine, an 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery and a 7-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission with an integrated electric motor. This setup produces about 442 hp and 650 Nm of torque. Fuel economy is rated at a miserly 3.3 l/100 km.

Exterior-wise, the GLE gets minor front and back fascia updates. The AMG version gets a more aggressive look with its sporty bumpers, lightweight alloy rims, rear diffuser and quad-exhaust system.

The interior gets a new multi-function steeting wheel and infotainment system, while new colour schemes are available for the upholstery and trim.

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE should make its way to the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and other GCC countries before the end of the year.