Mercedes drives in all-new GLE 2020 at starting price of ₹73.70 lakh

Mercedes-Benz on Wednesday launched the second-generation GLE at a starting price point of ₹73.70 lakh (ex showroom). The GLE has been a success story for the Germany giants in India and the company is banking on the 2020 edition of the car to once again deliver the strong punch.

In its latest version, the GLE comes in two engine options - 300d and 400d 4Matic ( ₹1.25 crore, ex showroom). Both are, quite obviously, compatible with BS 6 emission norms that will come into effect from April 1. In its 300d engine option, the GLE packs a 2.0-litre, four cylinder motor that develops 245 bhp of peak power and 500 Nm of torque. The 400d has a peak power of 330 hp.

In addition, Mercedes adds that its diesel engines are not just compatible with BS 6 norms but with Euro-6d as well. It claims its new SCR technology makes it possible for the diesel engines from the company to meet regulations comfortably.

In terms of looks and features, the GLE stays true to its SUV genes and gets multi-beam LED head lights which can light up roads 650 meters ahead, chrome-plated under guards at the front and rear, 825 litres of boot space, two power domes on the bonnet, panoramic sunroof which adjusts tilt according to vehicle speed, four-zone climate control, 13-speaker Burmester sound system, nine airbags (on 400d), seven airbags (on 300d), blind spot assist, climatised seats for cool or warm air as required (on 400d) and a 360-degree camera. The car stands on imposing 20-inch alloy wheels and the wheelbase has been stretched to allow for 69mm space extra leg space for rear passengers . The backrest can be reclined up to 30% at the rear. The parts of the new GLE are 95% recoverable and 85% recyclable.

Mercedes claims that the GLE now brings the comfort of a sedan in a robust SUV package and gets multifunction steering wheel wrapped in Nappa leather, intuitive Heads Up Display (HUD) which adjusts brightness according to external lights and position based on driver's height, ambient lighting with 64 colours with adjustable brightness and two grab handles around the center console. There is also the usual bells and whistles like wireless phone charger, MBUX infotainment system - first launched in GLC in December,

Mercedes says it has sold 13,000 units of the GLE so far and is confident of adding to that number with the 2020 model. The target audience, the company says, is successful professionals looking for an imposing ride that is robust as well as stylish - on and off the road.