2015 Mercedes-Benz GLE First Drive Review

It now has a new name, and with its younger sibling on its way this new SUV from Mercedes-Benz could be talking a whole new language. This is the new Mercedes GLE, erstwhile known as the ML-Class. And, with the smaller Mercedes GLC due in India next year, the GLE doesn't have to worry about the Audi Q5 or the BMW X3 anymore. It can move up the ladder; come with loads of equipment as standard; and command a price that rivals the X5. Mercedes could be looking at a whole new positioning for what is essentially a facelift of the ML-Class sold in India currently.

The new Mercedes GLE will make its way to India by end of 2015. It will be offered with two engine options; both diesel. The lesser priced, lesser equipped and lesser powerful GLE 250d is expected to bring in most of the numbers because it will be significantly cheaper than the BMW X5 but will offer similar equipment level. It will also continue to lock horns with the Q5 and the X3 till the Mercedes GLC arrives in August of next year.

We, however, drove the more likeable Mercedes GLE 350d. It gets a V6 diesel, displaces a little under 3-litre, and pushes out nearly 230PS of max power. But, it's the 620Nm of peak torque that puts the GLE 350d in a league of its own. We will get to its drivetrain details in a bit, but for now, we must tell you, be it in the city, out on highways or even on slippery and challenging off road terrain, this new GLE makes for a fantastic SUV.

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All-new then?

Not exactly, but hugely improved. Now, as we mentioned earlier, the Mercedes GLE is basically the facelift of the ML-Class. So, it gets new headlamps (all LEDs with adaptive function); a more aggressively designed front bumper; and a new bonnet with more pronounced power domes. Rear end of the Mercedes GLE sports revised tail lamps with new LED pattern, a subtly tweaked bumper, and the SUV now also gets dual exhausts, new alloy wheels and chrome finished underride guard. The tail gate, though, continues unchanged and even on the side everything from the doors to the roof is identical to the current ML-Class.

Interiors, meanwhile, have improved significantly. There's a new, high resolution display screen for the COMAND unit along with a touch pad and rotary knob for easier access; the AC vents have been redesigned; and the layout and quality of the dashboard and the materials used to put it together, all radiate higher levels of quality. The new Mercedes GLE gets driving modes too which are easier to access now via a dial on the transmission tunnel, and there's a new off-road package in there as well.

New engines?

Not really. Mechanically, the engine is the same. But it is now more efficient, refined and driveable. The Mercedes GLE 350d also comes with a 9-speed automatic gearbox as standard instead of the 7-speed available on the current ML. And with a revised off-roading package, it is more capable on the rough, demanding stuff as well. And for the Airmatic suspension equipped GLEs, there's an option to go in for the Active Curve System. The system essentially uses active anti roll bars at the front and rear axles. So, in a straight line, the anti-roll bars don't have a big role to play lending the GLE with a stable, comfortable high speed ride. But, around corners, as the SUV begins to roll, the anti-roll bars jump into action reigning in body roll for a relatively flatter stance around bends.

On the narrow, sometimes twisty roads of Austria, the GLE felt completely at home. Yes, there’s some roll even with the Active Curve System working overtime, but it certainly feels lighter and more agile than its over two tonne kerb weight might suggest. The steering isn’t talkative, but it is precise, and light, and predictable. So, the more you drive this SUV, the more confident you get. It doesn’t require too many turns lock to lock to hang U-Turns either. Visibility is great and because it has comfy seats, spacious insides and a sorted ride, the Mercedes GLE is a great SUV to spend long hours in, especially on the highways.

And, did we mention it was quiet? Well, it is. Very quiet indeed. You’d be hard-pressed to tell this one is a diesel. And thanks to the 9-speed gearbox, we expect it to deliver great fuel economy on highway jaunts as well; it loves to stay under 3000rpm but still manages to thrust you forward every time the throttle is pressed into action.

Finally then…

The Mercedes GLE, as mentioned earlier, will come to India in November this year. It will come in two guises - 250d and 350d – and both models will get all wheel drive. Furthermore, the GLE 350d will also get leather and off-road packages as standard. It will run on 18 inch wheels but will get Airmatic suspension as standard. The Active Curve System though will be optional (if at all). But, reclining rear seats, rear AC vents with temperature and blower control, sunroof, automatic tail gate and the improved COMAND system with touchpad, screen etc will all be standard fitment.

So, should you consider waiting for one? Makes sense. Now, the GLE like the ML, isn't exactly a sporty SUV. It's designed to be a practical, comfortable - and when the need arises - a versatile SUV. All of which it is. And the more time you spend driving or travelling in one, the more you begin to like it; a wonderful quality in a car from an ownership point of view