The all new fourth generation Mercedes – Benz GLE flagship SUV in the GLE range is now available in Kenya and is on display at the DT Dobie Lusaka Road and Uhuru Highway showrooms. This large four door SUV bristles with high technology, luxury and safety features.
The spacious interior has a premium high end field resulting from large Artico leather covered areas complemented with walnut wood effect trim. For the first time, the GLE is now available with a third seat row with two full-size seats (optional). The driver has a multi-function steering wheel and is cosseted by an electrically adjustable seat with a memory function. The front passenger revels in similar comfort.
The new GLE is the first SUV to feature the revolutionary MBUX infotainment system. It includes a natural voice control system and a widescreen cockpit with touchscreen. All on two large 31.2 cm (12.3-inch) displays under a stylish cover. Voice commands allow the driver to give instructions without pressing any buttons. To open the sunroof all you have to do is to say, ”Hey Mercedes. Open the sunroof.” A wave near the central mirror will turn on the map reading lights.
The head-up display makes the windscreen a stunning digital cockpit. As such you always have a direct view of key information and your full attention remains on the road and the traffic conditions in front of you.
The new GLE is deals effortlessly with any condition and the new optional E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension takes the comfort to a whole new level. In “Curve” mode, the vehicle can actively lean into a bend. This minimises the transverse force and tangibly increases comfort and dynamism.
The latest three litre in-line six- cylinder turbo-petrol engine has an output of 367 horse power with an additional 22 hp (16 kW) from the EQ Boost over short periods from its 48 volt mild hybrid system. This gives the driver ample power to propel the big SUV rapidly for high speed cruising journeys. When ambling along in traffic its hybrid system takes the pressure off the petrol engine.
Equally at home in town and country and rough road conditions the GLE is a real SUV with an underguard. The driver has the ability to approach a steep decline of 23 degrees and the departure angle is the same. The combination of a nine speed automatic gearbox and the powerful engine gives amazing ability to tackle steep ascents.
Maliha Sheikh, the DT Dobie General Sales Manager for Mercedes, summed up, “The pace setting Mercedes – Benz GLE 450 has a desirable package of style, luxury and impressive technology giving the driver and passengers a very comfortable ride and fatigue-free long distance travel.”