Mercedes-Benz GLE

You’ll know this is a GLE at first glance. The wraparound rear quarter glass is a design trait that dates back to the original ML of 1997. What’s new are the eyebrow-like LED DRLs, reworked tail-light internals and refreshed bumpers. The GLE 300d in Professional trim keeps things clean with new-look 19-inch alloys, while AMG Line versions of the 450d and 450 go flashier with 20-inch AMG wheels, sportier bumpers and a grille with a neat star mesh.

Inside, there’s rich quality, an airy layout and a calming use of materials. The new three-spoke steering looks cool but its all-touch interface isn’t always intuitive. Thankfully, Merc hasn’t bundled everything onto the touchscreen – seat and climate controls remain separate.

Rear seat space is excellent, with powered recline, a wide armrest and even rear seat slide. Visibility is good, and the panoramic sunroof adds to the sense of space. Boot space is generous, and the air suspension can lower for easier loading. There's also powered rear seat fold and a space saver neatly tucked under the floor.

The 450 petrol’s straight-six is smooth, strong and sounds lovely. The 9-speed auto is intuitive, and the mild hybrid system subtly boosts performance. A 5.6s 0-100kph time is impressive for a 2.3-tonne SUV.

The four-cylinder GLE 300d will get the job done for most buyers but if you’re keen on the diesel kick the GLE 450d is the one you’d want. It’s straight-six diesel engine is fantastic and gives the GLE all the power and performance you’d expect of a large SUV.

The GLE 300d is the economy pick with double digit fuel economy figures possible in everyday driving. The 450d is thirstier but it’s the 450 petrol that can scare you with its fuel bills.

While the GLE 300d rides on steel springs, the pricier versions get air suspension.
The air suspension rides beautifully but doesn’t like corners. There’s no sport mode for the suspension and the steering isn’t engaging. Still, stability is solid, and city manoeuvrability is decent. Off-road gear includes hill descent, terrain cameras and height-adjustable suspension.

The 12.3-inch touchscreen has been upgraded with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay and  crisper camera views while the digital dials sport more themes than before. New features include a head-up display, air purifier, fragrance dispenser, and heated/cooled front seats with multiple adjustments. Rear passengers get powered sunblinds, USB-C ports and climate control, though no wireless charging. Nine airbags, blind spot detection and auto braking are standard, though the latter is too sensitive for low-speed Indian traffic. ADAS isn’t as expansive as on newer Mercs – adaptive cruise is missed.

At Rs 96.4 lakh-1.15 crore, the GLE is expensive. It’s not the most dynamic or most spacious, but for comfort and polish, it nails the brief. If that’s your priority, the GLE deserves a close look.