Yahoo Finance 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-class Spied outside the Factory
What It Is: The entirely new, fourth-generation version of Mercedes-Benz’s core SUV. Originally called the M-class (and badged with ML prefixes), it was renamed the GLE-class for the 2016 model year, a designation that Merc intends to keep because it underscores the vehicle’s central position within Benz’s SUV lineup and aligns it with the E-class sedan. The GLE sits above the GLA and GLC, while the GLS and the venerable G-wagen are further upmarket. The design is entirely new, and our spy shots reveal that the GLE will feature a reshaped grille that is wider at the bottom than at the top, a tall roofline, and wide horizontal taillights positioned high on the rear end and liftgate. Inside, the GLE sheds its deep-set mechanical instruments in favor of broad TFT screens. There are four central air vents that accentuate the width of the instrument panel, and we can identify some Porsche Cayenne–like grab bars on the center console.
Why It Matters: Mercedes asserts that it invented the luxury-SUV segment with the original ML in the 1998 model—although that belief requires forgetting about the Range Rover. Regardless of its truthiness, however, that boast shows what a big deal a new generation is in Stuttgart-Untertürkheim (and in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where the model will continue to be built). The segment is hugely popular, and Mercedes-Benz needed to modernize the GLE to bring it up to the standards of the competition, to say nothing of the level of Mercedes’ own passenger cars. The 2019 GLE will be somewhat lighter and have far more advanced infotainment, telematics, and driver-assistance systems.
Platform: The next-gen GLE will be the first model built atop Daimler's new MHA architecture. This internal moniker stands for Modulare Hoch-Architektur, or Modular High Architecture, and it will form the basis of the next GLS as well. We expect another fastback “coupe” version down the road, too.
Powertrain: The highly flexible MHA platform should accommodate four-, six-, and eight-cylinder engines in rear- and all-wheel-drive applications, with hybridization a definite possibility. For the U.S. market, look for diesel and gasoline inline-six engines (the gas in regular and AMG spec), a hybrid version, and an AMG-branded twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8.
Competition: Audi Q7, BMW X5, Cadillac XT5, Land Rover Discovery, Lexus RX, Lincoln MKX, Porsche Cayenne, Volvo XC90.
Estimated Arrival and Price: Late 2018 as a 2019 model, at prices close to those of the current GLE.
