Engineering and Tech Features on the NEW Mercedes-Benz GLE
The new Mercedes-Benz GLE not only exudes presence and power, but is also full of innovations. Here are some you may want to look at if you’re planning on buying one when it becomes available in Malaysia.
Intelligent suspension
The active E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension is combined with the AIRMATIC air suspension system. This is the only system in the market that can individually control spring and damping forces at each wheel. Together with ROAD SURFACE SCAN and the curve inclination function CURVE, E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL makes a quite exceptional level of comfort possible. And rocking mode can help to extricate the GLE from difficult off-road situations.
Electrified with 48-volt technology
The first petrol model powered by a six-cylinder engine systematically electrified with 48-volt technology is the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC which will be available from launch. Its performance data: 367 hp and 500 Nm of torque, with a further 250 Nm of torque and 16 kW/22 hp available via EQ Boost over short periods.
A new control experience
MBUX is a user experience revolution in the car regarding 3D graphics, intuitive operation including via touchscreen and “Hey Mercedes” voice-operated control, the ability to learn as well as functions such as MBUX Augmented Reality. Standard equipment in the GLE, with two large 12.3-inch/31.2 cm screens arranged next to each other for a sublime widescreen look.
As if by magic
The optional MBUX Interior Assist allows intuitive, natural operation of various comfort and MBUX functions via recognition of hand movements performed by the driver and front passenger. If the driver reaches over to the unoccupied front passenger seat, for example, the interior lighting will illuminate this area accordingly.
Space for all
the new GLE will carry up to seven occupants in comfort. Its 80 mm longer wheelbase of almost three metres (2995 mm) particularly benefits rear seat passengers, who now have well over one metre of legroom. This is where the new GLE also has a first in the SUV market to offer an option: a fully adjustable second seat row. A third seat row is optionally available, to comfortably accommodate two additional passengers.
Powerful presence
Modern luxury both on and off the road: this is the design message of the new GLE, already communicated by its proportions with a long wheelbase, short overhangs and large, flush fitted wheels.
Slips through the air
The lowest drag coefficient of any SUV in the market – that was the development goal for the new GLE. This was achieved with Cd figures starting at 0.29 – a significant improvement over the preceding model (Cd = 0.32).
Clever in tailbacks
The new GLE is the debut of the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz driving assistance systems. The level of active safety has not only been improved further compared to the preceding model – some Intelligent Drive functions, such as Active Stop-and-Go Assist, are also without parallel beyond the SUV segment.
Feelgood factor
ENERGIZING comfort control networks various comfort systems in the vehicle, and uses musical and lighting moods plus a number of massage modes for a wide range of feel-good programmes. New features are the ENERGIZING COACH, which recommends programmes according to the given driving situation, and ENERGIZING seat kinetics that move the seat.
Confident on any terrain
A fully variable all-wheel-drive system (torque on demand) is being offered for the first time for vehicles with six- and eight-cylinder engines. This makes the GLE even more agile and safe on the road. With the optional Offroad package, likewise fully variable all-wheel drive with a low and high range is available as a world first. This makes the GLE more off-road capable than ever.
Plastic body panels
The GLE comes up trumps where lightweight design is concerned. The material of the front-end member is completely new: Organo panels, a fibre-reinforced plastic that can be processed like metal.
Head up
Also available as an option is a next-generation head‑up display which sets new standards with a resolution of 720 x 240 pixels and an extended projection distance. A system of lenses and mirrors projects a full-colour image measuring around 45 x 15 centimetres into the windscreen, which appears to float in front of the driver at a distance of around three metres.
A clean wipe
MAGIC VISION CONTROL automates the washer/wiper process to suit the prevailing conditions. Different washer programmes are stored in the control unit of the wiper motor. As the washer fluid is metered directly at the wiper arm, there is no film of water to obscure the driver’s vision.
Precautions
From PRE-SAFE® to the seat belts, from the bodyshell structure to the airbags: the new GLE provides comprehensive protection that commences well before an accident and continues to act afterwards.
About the Author
Subhash Nair Written work on dsf.my. @subhashtag on instagram. Autophiles Malaysia on Youtube.
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