The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE will take a position in the mid-size segment. Future GLC and GLS classes will be smaller and bigger than the GLE. This is one of the youngest nameplates in German carmaker’s lineup. Since 2015 we can see this vehicle on streets instead of M-class of SUVs. The next-gen crossover will come in petrol 350 variant, and 550 hybrids. Also, 4Matic and AMG versions will be there as well.
What to expect from the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE new generation? After only four years, the vehicle will see the big redesign. We should not have doubts since Mercedes is not going to do anything to put its reputation on a gamble. Also, the luxury SUV is going to get only upgrades. With them, price jump is what we can confirm already. Fans will moan about it. But still, these who had driven GLE before will buy it again.
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE Spy Shots
The crossover was spotted camouflaged already in 2017. Not only once, but few times. Spy photos are showing some interesting details about the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE. In combination with confirmed info, we have some clues about the upcoming SUV.
First of all, it seems like that 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE will be smaller than before. We don’t have exact dimensions, but it is possible. The crossover will use a new platform and architecture. Furthermore, this change is leading to others. One of them is weight drop, and the next one is fuel economy boost. But, these are details we will find out at the time of release.
Recently, new spy photos appeared. On these images, headlights seem like ready for production. Other parts were under cover, hiding details. But, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE is rounder than before. This is one of the points of the new architecture.
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE Redesign and Platform Change
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE will use for the first time a new platform. The German carmaker is shaking things up. Bosses decided to build the new GLE on the MRA platform. This concept brings weight drop. Inside, many changes will be applied. First of all, more space is there for driver and occupants. Also, the latest features are going to take place. We are sure that infotainment system called MBUX is coming for the new Mercedes-Benz GLE class. We could see it on A-Class working perfectly and drawing attention and positive critics.
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE Engine
Both standard 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 and 350 4Matic models are getting the power from a 3.5-liter V-6 engine. The drivetrain returns a nice ratio of power, torque, and gas mileage. Combined, it is 20 mpg, while on the highway the GLE can go 23 mpg with rear-wheel drive setup. An all-wheel drive is available as well, with slightly higher fuel consumption. Through a seven-speed automatic transmission, we can get 300 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque.
Mercedes-Benz GLE 550e Hybrid
The same gearbox transfers power for hybrid crossover. The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE plug-in model is using a 3.0-liter twin-turbo engine in combination with an electric motor. This model is known as 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE 550e. Compared to the base SUV, this one is a real beast. The hybrid drivetrain is good for 440 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy raises to 50 mpg in city drive. On the highway, the new GLE 550e will be good for 38 mpg. Finally, when you use the only electric motor to power the crossover, it will run up to 10 miles.
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE AMG
King of the lineup, the holy AMG model is on streets as well. However, it is far away from the production model. One thing we can tell is this version is coming few months after the base model. From what we saw through the camp of 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE AMG is that vehicle is using different parts. Funny grille and headlights won’t see production for sure. But, the big trunk could be a surprise of next AMG.
The performance coupe will get gain two versions. Smaller displacement of GLE AMG 53 will be able to deliver around 400 hp, and the bigger version is AMG 63 with the output of 550+ horses.
2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE Release Date and Competition
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE will probably have a debut at Paris Motor Show early in October. However, the company will wait for November or December to confirm all details and launch the sale. Until then, we won’t have exact details about the price. Our estimation is that starting cost will be around $55,000. Plug-in hybrid version jumps closer to $70k. Of course, the most expensive vehicle is AMG 63, with the price of at least $120,000. Slightly less expensive is its sibling 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE AMG 53 with a cost similar to a hybrid.
With such performance and price, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE will compete with Cadillac XT5. Also, the new Lincoln Nautilus replaced MKX. The fresh vehicle is causing a lot of interest from its day one. But, the major rival for GLE Class comes from Germany. Of course, it is BMW X6. This SUV also has performance-oriented version X6 M to battle AMG model of MB GLE.
