The more the merrier seems to be the motto at Mercedes-Benz India. After launching the C 63 AMG and the AMG GT R last week, the brand has now expanded its GLE line-up. The GLE range gets two new made in India variants, the range-topping 450 LWB and a new diesel variant, the 400 d LWB. The former is launched at Rs 88.80 lakh while the latter comes at a sticker of Rs 89.90 lakh. The current GLE range comprises of the 300 d and the top-of-the-line 400 d Hip Hop edition that is a CBU.
The highlight of the range-topping GLE 450 is its engine. It is powered by a 3-litre in-line six-cylinder engine that makes 362bhp and 500Nm of torque. Additionally, the engine is electrified with the 48-volt hybrid technology and that adds a further 22bhp and 250Nm of torque via EQ boost over short periods. The integrated starter generator is responsible for hybrid functions such as the aforementioned power and torque assistance and brake energy recuperation, resulting in enhanced fuel economy. The engine is mated to the brand’s staple, the 9G-TRONIC gearbox that sends power to all four wheels via the 4MATIC AWD system. That said, the GLE 450 is quick off the line, reaching 100kmph in just 5.7 seconds before hitting an electronically limited top-speed of 250kmph.
The GLE 400 d 4MATIC LWB on the other hand gets the OM 656 3-litre in-line six-cylinder diesel engine that makes 325bhp and 700 Nm of torque. It matches the petrol-powered GLE 450 in terms of performance, breaching the 100kmph barrier in an equal 5.7 seconds before hitting a top speed of 245kmph. It gets the same transmission as well as the 4MATIC AWD system. That said, both SUVs get BS6 compliant powertrains.
In terms of kit, both SUVs are packed to the brim with premium features as you would expect from SUVs of this class. They’re equipped with multi-beam LED headlamps with ‘Intelligent headlight control plus’, AIRMATIC air suspension, 20-inch alloy wheels, MBUX infotainment system, power adjustable front seats with memory function, four-zone ac, panoramic sunroof among many others.
Commenting on the addition of the two GLE variants, Martin Schwenk, MD and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “The new GLE LWB has already excited the market and has a 3-month waiting period. With the introduction of a petrol model, we expect it to further drive its popularity and cater to the requirements of those customers who waited for a petrol model. It remains our endeavour to keep renewing our portfolio at regular intervals to meet customers’ preference.”
The GLE is the highest selling Mercedes-Benz SUV in India. By adding two new variants, Mercedes-Benz aims to revive demand as the coronavirus caused lockdown restrictions get eased in a staggered manner. The next launch from Mercedes-Benz India will be their flagship SUV, the GLS on June 17.