GLE [Spyshots] 2015 Mercedes GLE Facelift (formerly M-Class) (X166)

[Wolfgang]

Spy Shots: Mercedes M-Class Caught Testing In Europe

The upcoming Mercedes-Benz M-Class facelift just came out for a new testing session in Europe. Scheduled to break cover in the fourth quarter of 2014 as a 2015 model, the updated SUV was spotted wearing less camouflage than usual, albeit still hiding its revised front and rear fascias. The facelift brings significant revisions inside and out, as Mercedes-Benz is looking to build on the M-Class’ increasing popularity, especially in the United States.

The upgrades also come as a response to the recently launched, third-generation BMW X5 and the anticipated introduction of a brand-new Audi Q7. The facelift is supposed to keep the third-generation M-Class fresh for three more years, until a redesigned version replaces it for 2018. But until that happens, let’s have a look at what these new spy shots have to share about the revised midsize SUV and revisit the details surrounding the upcoming M-Class.

Although the familiar swirly camouflage is no longer covering the vehicle from bumper to bumper, most of the important visual attributes are still out of sight. Up front, a white mask keeps the bumper, the grille and the headlamps concealed. However, the new photos reveal that Mercedes finally fitted the prototype with production light units, which share a common configuration with those seen on other models, including the C-Class and the S-Class.

The same is available around back, where the old taillights seen on previous mules have now been replaced by revised items. Although they’re almost entirely camouflaged, we expect the new pattern to blend in with the rest of the Mercedes lineup. The rear bumper is also new, but modifications appear to be minor.

Though our paparazzi haven’t been able to take a peek inside the SUV, we already know, based on previous spy shots, that the facelifted M-Class benefits from a larger infotainment system mounted atop the center console and a new, three-spoke steering wheel — both of these debuted on the all-new C-Class last year.

Engine-wise, we expect minor updates across the lineup, with a hybrid powertrain to join the range before the next-generation model arrives.

Why It Matters

Although these new spy shots aren’t very revealing, they do suggest development of the facelifted M-Class is well underway. With the production lights in place and less camouflage all around, it won’t be long until the revised SUV shows its new front and rear end, and updated cabin.

Spy Shots: Mercedes M-Class Caught Testing In Europe @ Top Speed

 

[W201]

^ Suspect for Mercedes enthusiasts roof strength may be more important than for others.
For me it is, having survived a major crash in a MB. Even the smart has a strong roof.

Gees, what happened?

On topic, rear lights on this car, although covered, look like they mimic those of the GLA. Why would they otherwise cover them like this, when they weren't covered on other spy pics? (Kinda like with the first pics of the FL W212 who also had its four headlights in the earlier spy pics).

 

[Merc1]

As it stands Mercedes will be introducing a new GLK, MLC and the facelifted ML and GL all next year for the 2016 model year in the U.S. That is quite a lot IMO. I don't see why the FL ML couldn't have introduced this fall for 2015.

M

 

[Wolfgang]

Gees, what happened?

Was quite a while ago, a lot of cars banged into each other on the highway at speed. Since in a MB, walked away, and the car was even repairable. Learnt a lesson.

But then, how does impact the “panoramic sunroofs” that all the automakers have as an option to this factor. No idea, but I suppose it will impact on safety elements in any way… .

MB seems to add additional double shell roof frames in cars with pano roof, like the one shown in this recently published GLA structure:

http://www.germancarforum.com/commu...cedes-benz-gla-class.49450/page-6#post-683324

 

[dafour]

Was quite a while ago, a lot of cars banged into each other on the highway at speed. Since in a MB, walked away, and the car was even repairable. Learnt a lesson.




MB seems to add additional double shell roof frames in cars with pano roof, like the one shown in this recently published GLA structure:



http://www.germancarforum.com/commu...cedes-benz-gla-class.49450/page-6#post-683324

Yeahh. I was not expecting less from MB
thanks

 

[Merc1]

That is Mercedes-Benz, but in today's world such engineering just isn't appreciated by 99% of buyers. It just isn't as important as standard heated seats or bluetooth.

M

 

[ThroughandThrough]

Don't forget the LED DRLs!

 

[Wolfgang]

Yeahh. I was not expecting less from MB
thanks

Neither did I. The IIHS claims in a recent pub the roof strength correlates with the injury risk.

 

[Wolfgang]

So... What's up with the alleged facelift to launch on April 3, 2015, when it can be ordered in Germany?

This is my favorite photo so far:

Some alleged changes:

• visible exhaust tips (important)
• updated rear lights similar to the E-Class
• updated headlights with LED DRLs, with an S and C family look, and hopefully the "Coming Home" function from the C
• an updated COMAND from the ML Coupe/MLC, but keeping the familiar climate controller buttons
• engine lineup similar to the E-Class
• an unconfirmed name change from M-Class to "GLE" to reflect the E base
• two and one bar grilles, maybe for the classic and avantgarde lines, or maybe for the standard and AMG models
• probable tow rating of 7200 lbs / 3500 kg

 

[Amat46]

 

[Car Nut]

^ I am surprised that they choose such small wheels for what appears to be an official commercial. The wheels look a bit lost in the arches.

 

[SCOTT27]

Something concerns me here.
Why would the M-Klasse be from Munchen instead of Stuttgart?

Blasphemy.

 

[DJRaze99]

Whether I can only see that this car in a photo has a front at present produced M of the class?

 

[PHYBENZ]

That's the current ML guys.

 

[tennmb]

I wish they would do the polished trim around the entire window frame. The new C has it. The GL has it.

 

[Rainer271]

U Spy 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLE or M-Class Facelift

Next year's facelift for the current-gen Mercedes M-Class won't only bring changes to the SUVs appearance, but if the reports are true, to its name as well.

It's part of a broader overhaul in Mercedes' naming strategy that seems to have started with the A-Class model series and continued with the S-Class Coupe and more recently, the AMG models that drop the Benz moniker.

The carmaker's SUV lineup is next, with the M-Class to be rebranded as the GLE to show its relation to the E-Class, in the same way that the GLA is connected to the A-Class.

These latest spy shots of the GLE were captured by Carscoops reader Alexander B. outside the Rolls Royce Museum in Dornbirn, Austria – not the place you'd expect to see an MB tester.

Mercedes had all the new parts under cover, including the restyled front end that will have different lights, bonnet, grille and bumper, as well as the rear where the GLE will get an updated bumper and most likely, new tail lamp cluster designs.

New colors and trims, a tablet-style touch-screen for the latest version of the brand's Command infotainment system, along with a redesigned steering wheel and center console will help keep the SUV up to date inside.

Together with some improvements to the current engine range, we hear that Mercedes will introduce a new hybrid model and a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with 329hp (333PS).

 

[mini_cooper4]

^ Suspect for Mercedes enthusiasts roof strength may be more important than for others.
For me it is, having survived a major crash in a MB. Even the smart has a strong roof.

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IIHS

starduzt / Iceland

Roof strength may or may not be related to the C-pillar design.
Regardless, am quite fond of the M-Class C-pillar. Fortunately there are also many other SUVs, for folks who may prefer other designs.

You'd think they'd not hiding the interior(or lack of) of the Ford with highly tinted glass.
Just popped in my mind while watching. To be honest I don't care if it's true. It's another cocky commercial.
Smarts can take stronger hits than your body can absorb. That's a well known fact. They are tough toys... maybe too tough even

 

[hannaz]

Mercedes-Benz M-Class facelift / GLE spied testing at the Nurburgring, likely a hybrid

A prototype of the facelifted Mercedes-Benz M-Class has been spied undergoing testing on the Nürburgring.

Mercedes-Benz's mid-size SUV is about to receive a mild facelift which will bring subtle styling tweaks to both front and rear fascias. Expect the headlights to mimic those of the C- and S-Class models, along with a slightly altered front grille and different air intakes. Judging by the camouflage this prototype was wearing, the taillight graphics will also be revised while the rear bumper is going to be modified as well.

Speaking of the rear bumper, you will notice that on the right side there's a small cap which can only mean we are dealing with a plug-in hybrid version that will allegedly return 50 mpg US (60 mpg UK or 4.7 liters / 100 km). Power will likely come from a turbocharged V6 3.0-liter working with an electric motor as seen in the S500 Plug-In Hybrid where the conventional engine puts out 328 bhp & 480 Nm whereas the electric motor produces an additional 107 bhp & 340 Nm.

The facelifted Mercedes-Benz M-Class will reportedly be unveiled in the fall of 2015 and could adopt the GLE moniker as a reference to the similarly-sized E-Class. It will be followed shortly by the GLE Coupe (ML Coupe) which will act as a competitor for the BMW X6.

Mercedes-Benz M-Class facelift / GLE spied testing at the Nurburgring, likely a hybrid

 

[Car Nut]

From the outside, this seems to be a very subtle facelift. I am finding it more difficult to identify the changes on the ML than with previous facelifts of other Mercedes models. Usually one can get a good idea of the changes even through the camoflage. In this case I really need to see the old and new side by side. Have they softened the swage line running into the front wheel arch or is that just an optical illusion from the colour/light?

 

[tristatez28lt1]

What autobild thinks of the GLE. I believe this is still a render.