Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe revealed in production form ahead of Detroit debut
The GLE Coupe, Mercedes-Benz’s direct rival to the BMW X6, has been photographed in final production trim before its official launch at the 2015 Detroit motor show.
Mercedes-Benz’s GLE Coupe has been photographed in full production specification ahead of its official unveiling at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The images, which surfaced via the Mercedes-Benz Passion Blog, reveal the crossover’s final design as it prepares to enter showrooms early in 2015.
The GLE Coupe is aimed squarely at the BMW X6, adopting a sloping roofline and coupé-inspired profile atop the familiar GLE (formerly M-Class) platform. The production car shows off prominent chrome detailing on the front grille and lower bumper, as well as distinctive alloy wheels matching those seen on recent pre-production vehicles.
Engine range and technical details
At launch, the GLE Coupe will offer a choice of engines. The entry-level GLE 350 d 4MATIC uses a 3.0-litre V6 diesel producing 258 PS (190 kW) and 620 Nm of torque. Petrol buyers will have the GLE 400 4MATIC, powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 with 333 PS (245 kW) and 480 Nm. Topping the initial range is the GLE 450 AMG, which features a higher-output version of the 3.0-litre V6, delivering 367 PS (270 kW) and 520 Nm.
| GLE 350 d 4MATIC | 3.0-litre V6 diesel, 258 PS, 620 Nm |
|---|---|
| GLE 400 4MATIC | 3.0-litre V6 petrol, 333 PS, 480 Nm |
| GLE 450 AMG | 3.0-litre V6 petrol, 367 PS, 520 Nm |
All versions are expected to use Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The GLE 450 AMG variant will sit below the full-fat AMG GLE 63, which is also anticipated for Detroit, as covered ina related report.
Design and market positioning
The GLE Coupe’s styling borrows from the S-Class Coupe, with a wide grille, swept-back headlights and an assertive stance. The sloping roofline and high waistline mark a clear departure from the more upright GLE SUV, signalling Mercedes’ intent to compete directly with the BMW X6 in the growing SUV-coupé segment.
The model’s arrival will expand Mercedes-Benz’s SUV line-up and is expected to attract buyers seeking a more dynamic alternative to the conventional GLE. The GLE Coupe’s launch at Detroit will place it alongside other high-profile introductions and marks the first time Mercedes has offered a direct competitor to the X6.
What comes next
The GLE Coupe’s public debut is scheduled for January 2015 in Detroit. Sales are expected to begin shortly after, with full details on specifications, trim levels and pricing to be confirmed at the show. The model’s main rivals will be the BMW X6 and, to a lesser extent, the Audi Q8 when it arrives.
