[Test Drive] Mercedes-Benz GLE 450, 'Silky Driving' Utilizing EQ Boost

[Asia Economy Reporter Suyeon Woo] Recently, consumer preference for large sport utility vehicles (SUVs) has become more pronounced in the domestic automobile market. As purchases of vehicles for outdoor activities such as car camping and camping, as well as family car use, increase, the appeal of large SUVs with spacious interiors is being highlighted.

Mercedes-Benz also introduced the E-Class (mid-large) SUV 'The New GLE' to the premium SUV market in September last year. The GLE was launched with the concept of a premium SUV that combines practicality and driving performance both on and off-road, along with various advanced convenience and safety features. We test drove the newly released 2020 model mild hybrid gasoline version, the 'GLE 450 4MATIC,' and evaluated its driving performance.

The New Mercedes-Benz GLE 450

First impressions of the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC were of a sporty design infused with Mercedes-Benz’s unique elegance. The design concept of the GLE is 'the essence of modern luxury encompassing on- and off-road.' The vehicle’s proportions, consisting of a long wheelbase, short overhangs, and large flush-fitted wheels, provide a sense of stability.

Standing next to the vehicle, one can feel the substantial size of the GLE. The GLE measures 4,930mm in length, nearly 5 meters, with a height of 1,770mm and a width of 2,020mm. The wheelbase, which determines interior space, is 2,995mm, providing ample room inside. Sitting in the second row, the legroom and headroom were generous, and the wide panoramic sunroof enhanced the sense of openness. The trunk offers a basic capacity of 630 liters, sufficient for use as a family car, and can be expanded up to 2,055 liters by folding down the second row.

The New Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 Interior

The interior harmoniously blends Mercedes-Benz’s luxury with the sporty character typical of SUVs. Two 12.3-inch displays seamlessly connect without borders, creating a refreshing feel, and the highly visible graphics allow for intuitive system control. The touchpad mounted on the center console can be used in the same way as a smartphone, making it convenient.

What impressed most while driving the GLE 450 4MATIC was that despite being a large gasoline SUV, it delivered a smooth and stable driving experience. This is thanks to the 48V mild hybrid system called 'EQ Boost.' The core technology of EQ Boost is the integrated starter-generator. It combines the motor and generator into a single module, allowing electric current to flow freely between the motor and generator. Because of this, the vehicle can start quietly and smoothly without the typical vibrations or noise of an internal combustion engine.

Acceleration stability and responsiveness were also excellent. The GLE 450 is equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine that delivers a maximum output of 367 horsepower and a peak torque of 51 kg·m. Additionally, through EQ Boost, an extra 22 horsepower and 25.5 kg·m of torque are added to the internal combustion engine during acceleration.

Furthermore, the advanced convenience features and driving assistance systems for safety also earned high marks. In particular, the addition of the Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC function, which automatically maintains distance from the vehicle ahead, reduced fatigue during long-distance driving. The Driving Assistance Package also includes ▲Active Brake Assist with intersection function ▲Active Lane Keeping Assist package ▲Exit Warning Assist ▲PRE-SAFE® Plus, enhancing safety even further.