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


The Mercedes-Benz GLE, formerly Mercedes-Benz M-Class (designated with the "ML" nomenclature), is a mid-size luxury SUV produced by the German manufacturer Mercedes-Benz since 1997. In terms of size, it is slotted in between the smaller GLC and the larger GLS, the latter with which it shares platforms.
What autobild thinks of the GLE. I believe this is still a render.
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I hope it doesn't look like this not a very convincing F/L of the ML in my opinion. They need to be more bold with the grill (maybe more upright) and headlight design
 
Spyshots: 2016 Mercedes ML / GLE Plug-in Hybrid First Photos
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We've been tailing Mercedes-Benz engineers for about a year now as they have been developing a comprehensive mid-life facelift for the ML. However, this is the first time we've been able to check out the plug-in hybrid version, a first for the German SUV model.

The ML is expanding its engine range to include every type of propulsion: petrol, diesel and now electric. Just like other PHEVs wearing the three-pointed star logo, electricity enters this SUV though the additional cap hiding the charging socket is in the rear bumper.

We're looking at the first Mercedes SUV that's able to drive for up to 32 miles or 50 kilometers without any tailpipe emissions. Even when the gasoline engine kicks in, CO2 emissions probably won't exceed 60 grams. If that doesn't stop eco-mentalists from hating SUVs nothing will.

So what's under the bonnet?

For the sake of fuel economy, the best hybrid package Mercedes has is the one used by the C350 Plug-In Hybrid. It combines the 211 PS 2-liter turbo engine from the regular C300 with an 70 PS electric motor and a seven-speed automatic gearbox.

BMW is working on a similar setup for its X5 eDrive, a direct rival. However, Porsche has decided to drop a V6 under the bonnet of the Cayenne S E-Hybrid, the result being a total output of 416 hp and uncompromised performance. Mercedes can theoretically make one of these as well, by using the V6 system from the S500 Plug-In, but we don't think they will.

A new engine and a new name

Daimler are expected to approve a new naming strategy as soon as the first month of 2015. Under these guidelines, all SUVs with start with the letter G as a tribute to their 4x4 flagship. This has already been done with the GLA and it could continue with the ML being called the GLE, since it's the mid-size model of the range, just like the E-Class.

A debut of the facelift model is likely to take place during the Detroit Auto Show, which is where we expect this electrified SUV to land. And yes, we are going to call it a 2016 model year, since the 2015 is already on sale and has brought about the controversial V8 engine drop.

http://www.autoevolution.com/news/s...ml-gle-plug-in-hybrid-first-photos-88178.html
 
I like the new GLE dash changes but the only thing that I think is not convincing is the look of the black switches for the radio and the 4WD/chassis selection in the center armrest console which are flat and look cheapish. Not sure why they are all flush with each other and flat? Are they maybe touch sensitive switches and you dont have to actually psychically press them?
 
That mules back lights and interior are the same as the current pre FL ML, I really hope they change the back lights cause that is the weakness of the current design.
 
^ Perhaps. Or might debut at the New York Auto Show in April. :)



Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that at April’s New York Auto Show 2015, the covers will be taken off the facelifted M-Class set to be soon known as the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLE.

As the new Mercedes-Benz GLE shares its ‘GLE’ name with the recently revealed Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe range, the slightly larger SUV will feature similar styling. As a result, one can be assured that the new Mercedes-Benz GLE will utilise refreshed headlights and taillights compared to the outgoing M-Class as well as modified bumpers both front and rear.

Elsewhere, one key change to the engine line-up is expected and that will be the introduction of a plug-in hybrid. Beyond this new variant, the same range of a four cylinder diesel, two petrol powered V6s and the range-topping 5.5-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine are expected to be maintained. On a transmission front, the facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLE will be offered with a nine-speed automatic ‘box. http://www.gtspirit.com/2015/01/16/2016-mercedes-benz-gle-debuting-at-new-york-auto-show/
 
I wonder when we will start seeing mules in W166 bodies for the next generation GLE? Maybe late 2015 and 2016 for prototypes? Development should be far along and at least 2-3 years in. The W164 only had a 6 year life cycle, so would one expect W167 (?) in 2018? Speaking of chassis codes, when the W166's successor also gets replaced circa 2025, there cannot be another W168 (due to A-Class).

It seems that since the W220, MB has been merely moving on up one number from the previous generation or going backwards as with the CLS (C219 to C218). What will the CLS become for that matter? CLE (C213) or CLS (C222)? C213 would actually affect the chassis code of the 2-door W213 coupe. It can give those who are not as informed, that the current models are heavily modified versions of or share components with recent ancestors (W220-W222=W223?; W210-W213=W214).

I probably should this question elsewhere, but it somewhat ties into the GLE going from W166 to W167 to W16? over the next decade.
 
Latest spy pics from JESMB.de suggest the GLE receives a new hood, from the Coupe. And an electric GLE 500/550 e (from the S 500/550 e) may be in the pipeline. :)

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MB Passion

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Picture credit: JESMB.de
 

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz Group AG is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany. Established in 1926, Mercedes-Benz Group produces consumer luxury vehicles and light commercial vehicles badged as Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG, and Mercedes-Maybach. Its origin lies in Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft's 1901 Mercedes and Carl Benz's 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen, which is widely regarded as the first internal combustion engine in a self-propelled automobile. The slogan for the brand is "the best or nothing".
Official website: Mercedes-Benz (Global), Mercedes-Benz (USA)

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