Six cylinders and a supercomputer: the updated Mercedes GLE and GLS open their order books

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Mercedes-Benz has started taking orders for the updated GLE, GLE Coupé and GLS following the models' premiere in the United States. In Germany the entry-level GLE 350 d 4MATIC starts at 77,365 euros, the GLE 350 d 4MATIC Coupé comes in at a minimum of 83,330 euros, and the base GLS 350 d 4MATIC opens at 90,845 euros. The figures are quoted excluding taxes and fees.

After the update, all three models receive new or revised components. The main emphasis falls on the six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines with an integrated starter-generator and a 48-volt system. The setup assists acceleration at low speeds, supports recuperation and makes engine starts smoother. Mercedes quotes consumption of 8.3–7.4 l per 100 km for the GLE 350 d 4MATIC, 8.1–7.3 l for the GLE Coupé and 8.5–7.9 l for the GLS 350 d 4MATIC.

Inside, the MBUX Superscreen is now standard: three 12.3-inch displays sit beneath a single glass surface. The digital feature list includes the MBUX Zero Layer, a virtual assistant, more than 40 apps and over-the-air updates. Mercedes is also betting on MB.OS, a system meant to let the car gain new functions even after it has been bought.

Driver assistance is handled by a new generation of MB.DRIVE. The cars carry 10 exterior cameras, 5 radar units and 12 ultrasonic sensors. In Europe some functions are part of the standard equipment, including DISTRONIC distance assist. The parking assistant can now look for spaces on both sides of the car and park automatically at speeds of up to 5 km/h.