When you see Mercedes prototypes with almost no camouflage, you know they are pretty close to their debut. Such is the case with two 4x4 models, the mid-life facelift for the GLC Coupe and the all-new GLE-Class.
Both were spotted today while undergoing final road testing in Germany. The only problem is that plenty of other Mercedes models are getting ready to come out, like the EQ C, scheduled for September 5th.
It's worth pointing out a few of the similarities and differences between these two, starting with the engines. The rump of the GLC Coupe sports "300 4Matic" badging, which means it's equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo gasoline-burner.
When the model came out about three years ago, we got a real kick out of the AMG exhaust fitted to the unit, which currently produces 245 HP. If our calculations are correct, the number will go to 299 HP, an output backed up by the EQ mild hybrid technology. The same engine should be the base one in the GLE.
Other powertrain updates for the GLC Coupe range include a new 2-liter diesel that helps it compete with the BMW X4. This will bump the power from 170 to 190 HP (220 d) and from 204 to 231 HP (250 d). At the top of the range, we should see a slightly more powerful GLC 43 and tweaked GLC 63. All versions of the crossover should come with the latest 9-speed automatic.
As for the GLE, it's an all-new model based on a different platform to its smaller brother. Most of its powertrains will be of the inline-6 variety, including a 435 HP mild-hybrid AMG model.
We have a pretty good idea of what the interior looks like, thanks to a recent leak. Also, Mercedes wanted everyone to know that the air suspension in the new GLE can make it jump up and down like one of those crazy hydraulic bouncing cars.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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