Merc’s pioneering GLE 400 d sticks to the top of the pile
Mercedes-Benz likes to call the GLE (nee ML) the pioneer of the street-oriented Sport Utility Vehicle. We had this fifth-generation on the cusp of the facelift arriving next week, which is once again expected to come in the choice of a 5-seat option with a cavernous boot or a real seven-seat version thanks to its longer wheelbase and a far more spacious cabin.
A creamy 243 kW 700 Nm über-turbodiesel
Diving straight under the bonnet, this creamy 243kW 700Nm Mercedes-Benz GLE400d 4Matic is also the quickest of the 3-litre turbodiesel über-SUV’s we’ve tested. Although not by much over the BMW X5. The Benz steals the dynamic high ground too.
Ten years ago X5 was mighty. Both as an SUV and as a driving tool. So much so that it made a mockery of the rest of its early, flabby and feelingless SUV rivals. It earned that self-acclaimed Sport Activity Vehicle tag. Roll a couple of generations and I’m afraid it’s all change…
Mercedes has gained ground over the years and this GLE 400 d proves that conclusively. It has a, it has regal feel about it on the road. The command driving position, peerless infotainment and a wafting, elegant motoring experience comes with proper performance and impressive dynamics too.
A fine dose of Benz Starship Enterprise tech
This turbodiesel straight-six GLE 400 d carries all the typical ML/GLE traits forward. That means Benz tech. And Starship Enterprise-like artificial intelligence MBUX infotainment spread out across the dash. This one still has the easier to use, but uglier old school steering wheel, but we expect that to change along woth latest level My Mercedes tech.
The Benz’s crisp, cavernous current cabin steals the show for sure. The best thing about it, is that now old school steering controlled infotainment. A tiny touch pad on each stalks run everything. The infotainment left and the right to look after what you control on the dash. The next one uses a prettier, yet fusser system of touch.
It is expensive and it is heavier on fuel than some rivals, although on any good day it will literally drive forever with a range of over 1,000 kilometred. If that’s still not good enough, there is a cheaper and more frugal option. But overall, if you’re looking for a premium SUV, this thing screams it. And it flies that three pointed star with great aplomb.
You’ll likely steal a GLE 400 d right now
You’ll probably be able to steal one of these from a Merc dealer keen to clear stocks ahad of the facelift. It’s not that the new car is a major step forward, and we told you we prefer thsis older steering wheel.
But if ever a more or less everyday car has had all the elements that you’d need to call it that, then this Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 d pretty well fits the bill. — Michele Lupini
Images & data: Giordano Lupini
ROAD TESTED: Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 d Engine: 243kW 700Nm 2.9-litre Turbodiesel I6 Drive: 9-speed Automatic AWD TESTED: 0-60 km/h: 2.71 sec 0-100 km/h: 5.97 sec 0-120 km/h: 8.28 0-160 km/h: 14.82 sec 400m: 14.4 s @ 400m speed: 157 km/h 80-120km/h: 4.16 sec 120-160km/h: 6.54 sec CLAIMED: VMax: 245km/h Fuel: 7.5 l/100km CO2: 199 g/km Range: 1,050 km Warranty 2 years unlimited Service Plan: 5 years 100 000km LIST PRICE: R2.15M RATED: 8 How does it shape up? Check Auto's Test Records now!