Auto Motor und Sport 6/11 article
Google-translated:
"Mercedes is currently testing the new generation of the GLE and we have already shot the SUV almost undisguised. A first look into the cockpit is already successful. Here all information and pictures of the W167.
"With the W167, the the SUV is built on the MRA platform of the current E-Class. This platform is again optimized for SUVs including the upcoming GLS. Thanks to the platform, the GLE is again relieved by a few kilos - it is assumed that the two-ton mark will be undercut, but only because the new Mercedes GLE is delivered in the basic version only with rear wheel drive. In terms of dimensions, the SUV grows only marginally at track width and wheelbase.
Otherwise, the new Mercedes GLE has more off-road qualities compared to its predecessor. In addition to more ground clearance and front and rear underrun protection, this also includes improved axle articulation, air suspension, limited slip differentials and transmissions with reduction options.
Two AMG versions of the Mercedes GLE
As top versions, Mercedes is the GLE AMG63 and launch AMG63 S. Instead of the elderly 5.5-liter V8 comes the corporate all-purpose weapon, the four-liter V8 Biturbo used. In the AMG E-Class makes this unit 571 and 612 hp. For the more civil propulsion three-liter six-cylinder with 367 hp or as GLE 53 with hybrid drive and 435 hp + 22 E-PS at the start. On the diesel side, there are the inline six-cylinder with 286 to 340 hp. The engines are said to be 20 percent more economical, not least thanks to the partially introduced 48-volt electrical system with 15-kW starter generator. Even a hybrid powertrain will be modifying entry into the new Mercedes GLE hold. Here, the Stuttgart combine for the plug-in hybrid, a two-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with a 90 kW electric motor. The system performance should be 279 hp. Later, a diesel hybrid is added. On the transmission side, an automatic access system can be combined with all drives.
Visually, the new generation of the Mercedes turns out a favorable GLE not as a revolution, but as evolution. Aprons and sills are redesigned, the grill modified. The distinctive beads on the side should also be revised, but the profile line is now above the door handles. And the characteristic C-pillar should continue to strive against the direction of travel - but here it gets a new impetus. As with the current series, the Mercedes GLE as GLE Coupé (C292) should come later on the market.
Gigantic display landscape in the cockpit
The view into the cockpit of the new GLE reveals an oversized display that reaches far beyond the center of the dashboard. As in the S-Class the left half serves to display all relevant driving information, the right part uses the infotainment and navigation system. Under the display they make four new rectangular air vents wide. The driver reaches into a newly designed steering wheel including touchpad. For the rear passengers in the GLE, there should be more space."
https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/erlkoenig/mercedes-gle-suv-w167-2018-infos-daten-bilder-preise/