Mercedes-Benz EQC, new GLE and B-Class to debut at the 2018 Paris Motor Show

With just a week to go for the Paris Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz is gearing up for the world premiere of three of its much awaited models – the EQC, new GLE and new B-Class. The entry level A-Class sedan will also make its debut at the Paris Motor Show. Apart from these three vehicles, the EQ Silver Arrow will also be showcased. The Silver Arrow was first unveiled at the Pebble Beach Automotive Car Week last month and it pays tribute to the record breaking W125 cars from the late 1930s. EQ is the company’s technology wing responsible for making Mercedes-Benz EVs.

The Mercedes-Benz EQC was revealed earlier this month and it is the first of the EQC models that will be launched worldwide in 2019. The design marks a departure from the current family design. The front fascia sports a single perspex headlight and grille treatment which will follow for the upcoming EQ models as well.  A full-width LED DRL is also a first. The all-electric SUV is powered by two electric motors – one mounted on each axle. The motors make 402bhp and 764.7Nm of peak torque. The Mercedes-Benz EQC will lock horns against the recently unveiled Audi e-tron, Jaguar I-Pace and Tesla Model-X.  The 2,425kg EV SUV accelerates from naught to 100kmph in 5.1 seconds.

According to Mercedes-Benz, the GLE is the bestselling SUV in the company’s history. The new GLE now gets a 48V active suspension system which is a first for a Mercedes-Benz. Another first for the SUV is the optional third row seating. The new GLE is built on the company’s MHA (Modular High Architecture) which allows for higher ground clearance. The SUV boasts more interior space than the outgoing model and legroom in the second row has increased by 69mm. On the inside, you get two 12.3-inch digital displays as standard and a large touchpad replaces the rotary dial in the centre console.  There are two engine options for the GLE – 6-cylinder petrol and 4-cylinder diesel. Both engines will come paired to a 9-speed automatic transmission. A coupe and an AMG variant are also expected to follow at a later stage. As far as the Indian market is concerned, the GLE will be launched here sometime next year.

The Mercedes-AMG A 35 4Matic will be showcased at the event. It is based on the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class and it gets a new 2-litre 4-cylinder engine under the bonnet which makes 301bhp. The new Mercedes-AMG GT 43 4Matic+ 4‑door Coupé will also make its appearance at the event. Stay tuned for more updates on the Paris Motor Show.