The current generation of the popular mid-size luxury crossover arrived last year and a great thing to know is that the second production year usually brings hi-performance AMG-badged versions. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class won’t be an exception and the new version is coming with significant upgrades over standard models. There is a new powerful V8 engine, upgraded suspension and loads of exclusive styling details.
On the other side, the rest of the lineup will carry on in the same way. The current generation is still pretty fresh and the second production year won’t bring any particular change. Other than the new AMG version, you may count on a familiar design, same engine options and overall design. Of course, there is always a chance to see a couple of additions in terms of standard features, but we don’t expect too much from this aspect either. We expect to see 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class on the market by the end of summer.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Redesign
As we’ve just mentioned, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class won’t come with significant changes in terms of base design characteristics. Still, the new AMG GLE 63 will come with significant upgrades. While the engine is the first thing that comes to mind, there is actually a full load of interesting upgrades, compared to the standard model. For example, there is a new suspension setup, which makes this crossover handle better. For the same reason, the ride is firmer, while the new brakes provide more stopping force.
In terms of the styling, the new version will come with several exclusive details, including those AMG trademark parts. The most prominent upgrades are those in terms of a new grille, new bumpers, wheels etc. On the other side, the overall look won’t change and you may count on the look that follows the brand’s latest design language.
Interior
The new GLE features one of the finest cabins in the class. Hi-quality materials are all around the cabin, while the aesthetics are on a high level as well. Furthermore, premium materials and the latest tech goodies make this cabin look even more opulent. When it comes to the interior space, you may count on two variants in the offer, with either two or three rows of seats. In both cases, there is plenty of room for passengers, though we have to say that the third row is typically tight for the class of mid-size SUVs.
When it comes to the new AMG model, the first thing you will notice is an exclusive AMG steering wheel. Also, there are new seats, with more support, while Nappa leather is standard in this case. There are several more upgrades in terms of materials, but the overall cabin layout isn’t much different compared to standard models.
Features
When it comes to standard features, things shouldn’t change too much compared to the current model. On the other side, the AMG 63 GLE model will come with several exclusive features. Some of the highlights are things like an upgraded navigation system, a head-up display, a low-level automated driving assistant, quad-zone climate control, massaging front seats and a premium Burmester surround-sound system.
When it comes to standard models, the list of goodies includes things like a 12.3-inch screen for the driver’s display, a 12.3-inch touch screen for the infotainment display, a navigation system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, five USB ports, proximity key entry, push-button start etc.
When it comes to safety features, all models come standard with goodies like rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, active brake assist, and driver attention monitoring, as well as with active park assist. The list of options includes a head-up display, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, active steering assist, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian and bicyclist monitoring, lane change assist and many more.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Engines
The biggest novelty for this year will be a new version of a familiar 4.0-liter V8 engine, for the new AMG model. For this occasion, the output will go up to 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque.
On the other side, the rest of the lineup will carry on in the same way. This means that base models will carry on with a 2.0-liter turbo-four, which puts out around 255 horsepower. A mid-level option comes with a 3.0-liter turbo six-cylinder, which puts out around 362 horsepower. Finally, there is a 4.0-liter V8 that puts out around 483 horsepower.
All three engines come standard with an EQ Boost, a mild hybrid system that improves fuel economy and also provides a short-interval 21-hp boost.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Release Date and Price
We expect to see the new model by the end f summer. Base models will go around 55.000, while the new AMG version is about to go around 115.000 dollars. Key competitors are models like BMW X5 and X6, Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q8, etc.
