2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: Check Out The Changes Side-By-Side

Although the exterior shape is familiar, this SUV is completely new from Stuttgart.

We lost track of how many times we saw Mercedes-Benztesting prototypes, pre-production variants, and the all-new SUV GLE-Class SUV SUV SUV SUV SUV SUV SUIs. It is positioned in the middle segment of the automaker’s lineup and enters a highly competitive segment. Although Stuttgart’s new SUV doesn’t look very different from its predecessor, it is an entirely new machine. The GLE-Class’s wheelbase has been slightly extended, which allows for more legroom and headroom.

There are many tech upgrades available, including the full glass cockpit treatment which incorporates two 12.3-inch digital screens with MBUX’s latest infotainment system. E-Active body control, a new suspension system that adjusts dampers and ride height at each wheel, is also available. Cool.

The links below provide full information about the GLE-Class. Let’s now take a closer look to see the differences in the visuals between the new GLE-Class and its predecessor.

The new GLE has a smoother profile. The SUV has a more refined, elegant look because there is less shaping on its sides. This angle shows the new headlights in action. Although it is hard to see the longer wheelbase, rear doors look ever-so-slightly larger.

Straight-on views show us the new face, which is much less swoopy. Mercedes informs us that the design changes have reduced the SUV’s drag coefficient from 0.32 to 0.29. This is a small drop from the 0.32 of the previous generation, but enough to earn the GLE the best-in-class award.

This angle is the best to show how smooth the GLE is now compared to its predecessor. The familiar gray trim is still there with red reflectors and trapezoid exhaust tips, but the new taillights have slimmer edges and are mounted higher. The step bumper with textured texture is gone. This creates a near flush seam with rear hatch.

The interior changes to the GLE class are more dramatic. The steering wheel is the only thing that is remotely similar to the old model, but it’s an entirely new piece. The bulky center stack and dual gauge clusters are gone. Instead, the interior has been updated with two 12.3-inch digital displays that give it a modern, elegant look to match the exterior.

There is no comparison for the third-row rear seat, which is a new option for GLE-Class. Although it may not look very spacious back there, larger families will find the extra seats useful.

We are eager to get a closer look at GLE-Class when it debuts at the Paris Motor Show in a few weeks.