2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLE Coupe: preview released

The GLE's panel supports two 12.3in digital displays as standard. They are supported by a new multi-function steering wheel featuring 18 controls, including two touch-sensitive pads within the horizontal spokes, as well as a larger touchpad within the centre console that replaces the rotary dial used by the outgoing GLE.

As with the new A-Class, the instruments and infotainment system operate via a new MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) interface that supports conversational speech and information gathering via the Mercedes Me app.

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Sinkwitz suggested improvements in component cooling has allowed Mercedes to better integrate the digital instrument and infotainment panel within the GLE: “We’ve improved the operation. There’s less heat build-up than we had before.”

Further interior elements of the new GLE previewed in the official sketches include a near-vertical steering wheel and a wide centre console featuring two prominent grab handles. As in the existing GLE, the gear selection is via a direct shift stalk on the steering column rather than a traditional gear lever, a measure that frees up space for two large cupholders within the forward section of the centre console.

At the heart of the new SUV is the car maker’s MHA (Modular High Architecture) platform. Heavily related to the MRA (Modular Rear Architecture) platform that underpins the C-Class, E-Class and S-Class, the new structure has been conceived for Mercedes models featuring a high ground clearance.

Power is expected to come from an updated list of turbocharged four and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, as well as a new plug-in hybrid option. The latter is important to ensure the car can conform to strict emissions legislations in key markets, including China, which dictates that a car must be capable of zero-emissions running.

Like the current car, a hot AMG GLE 63 version is due, where it is expected to use AMG's twin-turbocharged 'hot vee' V8 engine, in place of the current car's older 5.5-litre unit. The more efficient unit is good for 603bhp in other applications, such as the AMG E 63 S, but the biggest improvements over the 5.5-litre come with efficiency and its lighter weight, which should lend to more responsive handling.

AMG's current GLE model is no slouch, accelerating from zero to 62mph in 4.2sec, so its more potent and lighter successor could edge this heavyweight's sprint time into the realms of proper supercars. Its arch-rival, the BMW X5 M, is due on roads later this year with 592bhp, ensuring close competition.

A development car for the GLE 63 has been spotted wearing a 'Panamerica' front grille, linking it to other AMG models such as the GT sports car, which the grille was first featured on.

The GLE 63 is expected to arrive a little later, with a reveal likely in the early months of 2019 at a US motor show, because the model is built in America. â€‹