Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe 2020 breaks cover: Australian arrival Q2 next year

Mercedes-Benz has revealed its new-generation GLE Coupe ahead of its public debut at the Frankfurt motor show next month, and Australian release in Q2, 2020.

Local pricing and specifications have yet to be confirmed, however, the vehicle will launch globally in three variants: the six-cylinder diesel-powered 350d 4Matic and 400d 4Matic, and the AMG-fettled 53 4Matic+.

The GLE Coupe serves in the budding ‘coupe SUV’ category, competing with the likes of the BMW X6, Audi Q8 and Porsche Cayenne Coupe.

Mercedes-Benz says that it has put a stronger emphasis on the coupe-style exterior design with the new model, which has in turn improved aerodynamics by cutting wind resistance by nine per cent.

Mercedes-Benz says it has put more emphasis on the ‘coupe’ with the design of the updated model.

Like many vehicles in the segment, a sloping roof-line distinguishes the GLE Coupe from the vehicle upon which it is based, as well as slimmer tail-lights, widened c-pillar and a more angular windscreen.

The premium SUV has grown in the new generation, measuring 4939mm from nose-to-tail and 2010mm from side-to-side (39mm longer, 7mm wider), and the wheelbase has been extended by 20mm.

Despite the adjustments, the Coupe’s wheelbase remains 60mm shorter than the regular GLE’s. This is said to benefit handling characteristics.

Inside, the GLE Coupe can host five occupants, and offers more passenger and luggage room than its predecessor thanks to its increased dimensions. 

Like the standard GLE, the Coupe features the latest Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment package.

Luggage space is now rated at 655 litres in standard state, or up to 1790 litres with the rear seats folded – 70 litres more than the outgoing model.

The two oil-burning variants utilise the same 2.9-litre inline six-cylinder engine, with the base 350d delivering 200kW and 600Nm, and the 400d producing 243kW/700Nm.

All GLE Coupe variants are fitted with a nine-speed automatic transmission transferring power to all four wheels via a 4Matic all-wheel-drive system.

From standard, the GLE Coupe features a revised chassis for sportier driving dynamics, and improvements to noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). 

The standard steel suspension system on the GLE350d and 400d features a sportier tune.

As an option, the vehicle can be fitted with an adjustable air suspension system, and an E-Active suspension system which can individually control spring and damping forces at each wheel.

Sitting atop the range, the Mercedes-AMG GLE53 4Matic+ is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine with a mild-hybrid EQ Boost system. 

Outputs are rated at 320kW and 520Nm, however, the EQ Boost can deliver an additional 16kW/250Nm for a short period. 

The AMG-powered GLE Coupe accelerates from zero to 100km/h in 5.3 seconds before hitting an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h.

The AMG’s EQ Boost mild-hybrid system can deliver an extra 16kW/250Nm for a short period.

Distinguising the vehicle from the rest of the range is a number of AMG-specific touches, including a unique radiator grille, front apron, side skirts and spoiler.

Flared wheel arches give room for large 20-inch alloy wheels as standard, and a sharper diffuser and large twin exhaust tips dominate the rear-end design.

Sporty touches are also found within, like Artico/Dinamica upholstery with red stitching, a three-spoke AMG steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles, brushed stainless steel pedals, door sill panels and bespoke floor mats.

The GLE53’s instrument cluster has specific details like an AMG start-up menu and selectable modes.

A newly developed version of Mercedes-AMG’s Ride Control+ air suspension system is featured, which automatically adapts up to 1000 times per second, and can be adjusted via the various driver modes.

Seven modes are on offer: Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual, Trail and Sand.