While the badging might be completely foreign at this time, the GLE Coupe is at the leading edge of several important waves of change. Firstly, with a new naming nomenclature, Mercedes-Benz is revamping its model designations—especially those for SUVs and crossovers. Most utility vehicles will be labeled with GL plus the letter of the Mercedes sedan that's closest in size—thus GLE, for the vehicle that's now known as the M-Class or ML. The BlueTec label is replaced for diesels with a mere 'd,' while Hybrid models get an 'h.'
Secondly, the GLE Coupe is more than what may just amount to a niche oddity in the U.S. It previews a sweeping mid-cycle refresh that's on the way for the entire M-Class lineup for 2016—along with the name change. All that is currently called the M-Class, or ML350, for instance, will now be part of the GLE-Class.
The GLE-Class lineup will offer some of what's familiar, as well as a step in a sportier direction. There's a GLE350d 4Matic diesel model good for 258 horsepower and 457 pound-feet of torque, while the GLE400 4Matic, with its bi-turbo V-6, is good for 333 hp and 354 lb-ft. By comparison, the GLE450 AMG 4Matic is rated at 362 hp and 384 lb-ft. At launch the U.S. is likely to see those two gasoline models, with the diesel and GLE63 4Matic variants on the way a bit later. And for non-Coupe versions of the GLE-Class (those that are currently called the M-Class), we may see the current powertrains carried directly over initially.
All models are expected to offer a nine-speed automatic transmission. In the revamped M-Class, now GLE-Class, lineup 4Matic will again provide an even torque distribution of 50:50 between the front and rear axles (the AMG version has a rear-biased 40:60 setup), or nearly all torque to the wheels that can use it best for traction. The GLE350d 4Matic and GLE400 4Matic will roll on steel springs with adjustable dampers, while top models are expected to offer Mercedes-Benz's first suspension in a utility vehicle to combine an air suspension with continuous damping.
Look for sporty Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupes—the only way the GLE has been previewed so far—to have more aggressive front-end styling, as well as larger wheels and metal side steps. Expect much of the new front-end appearance, with the more drawn-back airdam, chunkier grille, and sculpted fenders, to carry into all the new GLE models, however.
Cabin appointments in the GLE will get a modest refresh as well, to take on all the infotainment elements familiar from the C-, E- and S-Class models. New trim options include carbon fiber and new woodgrain finishes, while the center console houses the COMAND controller and touchpad. Mercedes-Benz notes that the coupe will have space for up to five people, with a rear bench that's the widest in its class.
In the performance-oriented GLE450 AMG, Individual, Comfort, Slippery, Sport, and Sport+ drive modes are configured for the best traction in that given situation, with modes now controlling chassis, steering, powertrain, and suspension settings, as well as engine sounds.
Expect the M-Class's strong reputation and set of active-safety features to carry over into the GLE-Class, with some new ones as well. Distronic Plus active cruise control with Steering Assist, Pre-Safe automatic braking with pedestrian detection, BAS Plus with Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Pre-Safe Plus are all mentioned as included with a Driving Assistance Package.
How much of what's shown in the GLE450 AMG will make its way into the rest of the GLE-Class lineup, which is expected later in the 2015 calendar year? Stay tuned, and we'll update this page with all the latest as the GLE Coupe makes its official debut next month at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show
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