By Malusi Msomi

We recently travelled to George, in the Western Cape, for the launch of the facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV and Coupe. The refreshed models receive minor exterior and interior updates, as well as new technologies, improved equipment, and electrified powertrains.

Styling

Key highlights on the updated GLE SUV and GLE Coupé include revised headlights/taillights, standard LED High-Performance headlamps, and the incorporation of the AMG Line exterior as standard for the GLE Coupé. Both the coupe the and SUV look rather good with a rather butch and commanding stance to them.

Refreshed cabin

Inside, the updated GLE and GLE Coupé boast Mercedes-Benz’s latest design steering wheel, real metal air vents, and new colour combinations. Interior highlights feature dual 12.3-inch displays, ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice command, wireless CarPlay, Android Auto, and an optional 590W Burmester sound system with personalization and Dolby Atmos. it’s premium business as usual. The highlight of the interior is the new steering wheel with haptic feedback buttons, which looks great but can be finicky to operate at times. In the coupe, it does suffer in the practicality department as headroom is hampered due to the sloping roofline.

Powertrains

Powering the GLE 300d is a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine that produces 198 kW and 550 Nm. Thanks to the mild-hybrid system, it adds an additional 15 kW and 200 Nm which makes it more than adequate for everyday driving.

The drive is quite impressive on the GLE 450d we sampled. This is thanks to the brand’s Airmatic air suspension that comes standard on this model. There’s plenty of power thanks to a 3.0-litre turbo diesel motor that produces 270 kW and 750 Nm. The mild-hybrid adds 15 kW/200 Nm in short bursts, meaning at times you have a meaty 950 Nm for easy overtaking.

A more comprehensive review will be done on these behemoths when we get them on test.

Pricing:

GLE 300 d 4MATIC – R1 964 600
GLE 300 d 4MATIC 7-Seater – R1 984 000
GLE 450 4MATIC – R2 075 400
GLE 450 4MATIC 7-Seater – R2 094 800
GLE 450 d 4MATIC – R2 041 500
GLE 450 d 4MATIC 7-Seater – R2 060 900
GLE 450 d 4MATIC Sports Coupe – R2 340 500

All Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLE Coupe are sold standard with five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.