Mercedes is working on a facelifted GLE and GLE Coupe, but the company hasn’t forgotten about the current models. Quite the opposite as the 300d 4MATIC variants have been equipped with an updated powertrain that features mild-hybrid technology. Under the hood, there’s a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel that produces 268 hp and 550 Nm of torque. It’s joined by an integrated starter-generator that has gliding, boost and recuperation functions. The boost function is the most notable as it contributes an additional 20 hp and 200 Nm of torque.
This setup enables the models to
accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 6.8 seconds and hit a top speed of up
to 230 km/h. Furthermore, the models consume “significantly less”
fuel as the GLE 300 d 4MATIC sips between 7.5-6.1 L/100 km (31-39 mpg US) in
the WLTP combined cycle. Likewise, the coupe consumes 7.1-6.5 L/100km (33-36
mpg US).
Besides the updated powertrain, the
crossovers have been outfitted with a Torque on Demand transfer case that
features an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch. Thanks to this
change, 0-100 percent of the power can be split between the axles in contrast
to the old 50:50 fixed ratio. This should help to improve dynamics, especially
when cornering.
The models are currently available to
order and they’re slated to arrive at European dealerships next month. Pricing
starts at € 75,053.30 for the GLE and € 79,182.60 for the GLE Coupe.
