«We removed the excess, but kept the Mercedes»: when «cheapening» looks like an improvement
«We removed the excess, but kept the Mercedes»: when «cheapening» looks like an improvement
«We removed the excess, but kept the Mercedes»: when «cheapening» looks like an improvement
Mercedes expands the GLE lineup with a new CORE trim, preserving comfort, performance, and technology while lowering the price. Learn about features and pricing.
2026-01-22T20:08:29+03:00
2026-01-22T20:08:29+03:00
2026-01-22T21:20:38+03:00
Mercedes has expanded the GLE lineup with a new CORE trim package. This configuration is specifically designed to preserve the key qualities of a premium SUV—comfort, performance, and technology—while offering a more accessible price point. The manufacturer has clearly distinguished between elements that affect the vehicle’s value and secondary options, building the updated configuration around the model’s core essence.
The technical foundation remains unchanged. The GLE CORE retains the same powertrain, with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine producing 367 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque. An integrated starter-generator smooths out low-end response and makes acceleration more seamless.
The nine-speed automatic transmission operates without unnecessary shifts, while the AIRMATIC air suspension delivers the characteristic Mercedes ride comfort, quickly dampens vertical oscillations, and ensures stability in urban environments.
Even in challenging scenarios—such as starting from a stop, navigating rough surfaces, or braking at traffic lights—the GLE CORE demonstrates a level of refinement typically associated with the brand’s higher-end models.
Optimized Equipment Without Compromising Functionality
The CORE strategy avoids cutting features that would hinder daily usability. Important elements have been retained, including a third row of seats, driver assistance systems, surround-view cameras, Multibeam LED headlights, and adaptive high beams.
Inside, costly AMG Line decorative treatments have been removed, while exterior AMG elements remain for visual appeal. This approach has allowed for a lower price without sacrificing the vehicle’s real-world utility.
Pricing and Positioning
The GLE 450 d 4MATIC Sports CORE is priced at 13.79 million yen—significantly lower than the 15.26 million yen for the standard version with the same engine. All key characteristics are preserved: power output, all-wheel drive, AIRMATIC suspension, and a seven-seat cabin.
Overall, the CORE trim makes a large premium SUV more attainable, not by turning it into a stripped-down version, but by offering a rationally assembled package focused on everyday use.
Mercedes expands the GLE lineup with a new CORE trim, preserving comfort, performance, and technology while lowering the price. Learn about features and pricing.
Michael Powers, Editor
Mercedes has expanded the GLE lineup with a new CORE trim package. This configuration is specifically designed to preserve the key qualities of a premium SUV—comfort, performance, and technology—while offering a more accessible price point. The manufacturer has clearly distinguished between elements that affect the vehicle’s value and secondary options, building the updated configuration around the model’s core essence.
The technical foundation remains unchanged. The GLE CORE retains the same powertrain, with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine producing 367 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque. An integrated starter-generator smooths out low-end response and makes acceleration more seamless.
The nine-speed automatic transmission operates without unnecessary shifts, while the AIRMATIC air suspension delivers the characteristic Mercedes ride comfort, quickly dampens vertical oscillations, and ensures stability in urban environments.
Even in challenging scenarios—such as starting from a stop, navigating rough surfaces, or braking at traffic lights—the GLE CORE demonstrates a level of refinement typically associated with the brand’s higher-end models.
Optimized Equipment Without Compromising Functionality
The CORE strategy avoids cutting features that would hinder daily usability. Important elements have been retained, including a third row of seats, driver assistance systems, surround-view cameras, Multibeam LED headlights, and adaptive high beams.
Inside, costly AMG Line decorative treatments have been removed, while exterior AMG elements remain for visual appeal. This approach has allowed for a lower price without sacrificing the vehicle’s real-world utility.
Pricing and Positioning
The GLE 450 d 4MATIC Sports CORE is priced at 13.79 million yen—significantly lower than the 15.26 million yen for the standard version with the same engine. All key characteristics are preserved: power output, all-wheel drive, AIRMATIC suspension, and a seven-seat cabin.
Overall, the CORE trim makes a large premium SUV more attainable, not by turning it into a stripped-down version, but by offering a rationally assembled package focused on everyday use.
