Mercedes Benz GLE Launch Review (2024) - Still A Pinnacle Luxury SUV?

The facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLE has officially arrived in SA, with all derivatives now featuring mild-hybrid powertrains, to find out more, I joined Mercedes-Benz in the beautiful Outeniqua to drive the new GLE.
The GLE, or as it was known ML first emerged back in 1997. Setting high standard, this 2024 model continues to push the luxury SUV envelop.
New GLE, new levels of power and refinement. The pre-facelift version of this derivative model, the GLE300d utilised a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine generating 180 kW and 500 Nm, the updated model’s more powerful engine benefits from a 48-volt system and integrated starter generator, which in turn means that peak outputs improve to 198 kW and 550 Nm. The extra power is noticeable immediately as is the vehicles improved agility.
A nine-speed transmission is standard which is as expected buttery smooth. Air suspension and other luxuries are of course on tap too, including many available options such as the AMG Line exterior package at (R65 800), while the Night Package (R16 900), AMG Line interior package (R27 900), Exclusive trim package (R9 600) and Driving Assistance Plus package (R42 200). While none of these are essential, they definitely add some nice to haves. Other options also include the likes of various alloy-wheel designs (Up to 22 inches in diameter), Nappa leather dash at (R32 000), a heads-up display (R23 200), powered-closing doors (R11 800), the Off-Road Engineering package (R12 600) and air suspension with adaptive damping (R38 300).
The full model line-up from launch comprises of;
Mercedes-Benz GLE300d 4Matic - R1 964 600
Mercedes-Benz GLE 300d 4Matic 7-Seater - R1 984 000
Mercedes-Benz GLE450 4Matic - R2 075 400
Mercedes-Benz GLE450 4Matic 7-Seater - R2 094 800
Mercedes-Benz GLE450d 4Matic - R2 041 500
Mercedes-Benz GLE450d 4Matic 7-Seater - R2 060 900
All sold with Mercedes-Benz 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
More at;
www.mercedes-b...
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