Upcoming 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV spotted undisguised again

Team OD Updated: August 14, 2019, 04:03 PM IST

The long-awaited replacement for the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV will make its debut by the end of the year. In the meantime, a new set of spy images have surfaced which show most of the car in its production form.

The exterior of the new car seems to follow the design language seen on its latest offerings like the new A-Class and the new CLS-Class. This means that the design incorporates organic curves, rounded edges and a squat look. The front gets the new-shape angular headlamps and a prominent grille. The front bumpers also seem to have taken on a more aggressive look. The SUV gets a large glass area while the rear of the car is relatively simple but more cohesive now, with wide, angular tail lamps extending into the tailgate. The design of the C-pillar seen on previous generation cars is also carried over with a slight tweak to bring it up-to-date with the upcoming SUV's new design language.

The overall design of the cabin is in line with those found in Mercedes-Benz's latest offerings like the new CLS-Class, but with certain cues to accentuate this SUV's more outdoorsy positioning. This is seen in the squared off air vents, grab-handles on the centre console and the high dash which rises up behind the large integrated MBUX screen for both the instrument cluster and infotainment. Other than this, the usual qualities of Mercedes-Benz interiors like good fit-finish and design are present.

Engine options should be shared with the current E-Class. This means a 2.0-litre four-cylinder and a 3.0-litre six-cylinder in petrol and diesel options as well as the 4.0-litre V8 in the AMG version. A 48-volt electrical system and the nine-speed auto seen on the latest CLS-Class and the upcoming C-Class faceliftshould be offered. The AMG variants will be now standard GLE 43 withe the 3.0 litre twin-turbo V6 and the GLE 63 with the 4.0-litre V8.

The GLE-Class in its present form has been around since 2012, first launching as the ML-Class. The SUV has been updated regularly but expectedly falls short of newer rivals like the BMW X5, Audi Q7 and Range Rover Sport. This new change should bring in Mercedes' latest tech and improved driver engagement to what should be a popular offering for the brand.

Exterior image source: Frankfurt Car Spotter on Instagram

Also see: 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE | First Drive Review