Mercedes GLE Crossover Sizes Up, Adds Tech

Daimler AG’s 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class midsize crossover vehicle is loaded with new technologies and is larger and more fuel-efficient than the current model.

Moving to Mercedes' rear-wheel-drive Modular High Architecture, the redesigned GLE has a 118-inch wheelbase and stretches to 194 inches from bumper to bumper. This makes it five inches longer—including an additional three inches between the wheels—than the current model, enabling more second-row leg- and headroom. An optional third row also is available.

Mercedes says the vehicle’s sleeker design and aerodynamic tweaks give the new GLE a best-in-class 0.29 coefficient of drag. Other exterior highlights include a wide grille with large LED headlights that stretch into muscular wheel arches that can house optional 22-inch treads.

Engine options comprise a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-banger that makes 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque and a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 that kicks out 362 hp and 359 lb-ft of torque. The larger engine includes a 48-volt mild-hybrid system with an integrated starter-generator.

Each engine is mated with 9-speed automatic transmission. An optional all-wheel-drive system can vary torque between all four wheels independently.

The 48-volt battery also will help power a new active suspension. Mercedes says the E-Active Body Control system is the first that allows spring and damping forces to be controlled individually at each wheel to help counteract body roll, pitch and squat.

To boost off-road handling, torque can be adjusted between the front and rear axles. The suspension height also will automatically raise and lower itself to help free a vehicle stuck in the sand.

A new driver-assistance system can steer the vehicle at speeds up to 37 mph and slow or bring a vehicle to a complete stop in traffic. The vehicle’s upgraded active brake assist system automatically applies the brakes to prevent a driver from turning into oncoming traffic.

The interior features Mercedes’ latest MBUX system dual 12.3-inch screens for instruments and infotainment. A gesture control system can distinguish between the driver and front-seat passenger. Other goodies include power-adjustable second-row seats and a large head-up display (17.8 x 5.9 inches) that appears to float about 10 ft in front of the windshield.