Mercedes-Benz recently revealed the fourth generation GLE (otherwise known as the ML or M-Class). The first generation was recognised as entirely ground-breaking when it was first revealed in 1997. Prior to it being unveiled, the SUV did not exist; Mercedes-Benz created a new market. They did quite well with a half-baked vehicle. Despite this problem, it was a really good-looking vehicle.
Then the second generation of M-Class arrived. Despite the widespread improvements across every dimension of the car, the design did not benefit from the revamp, resulting in the M-Class becoming known as the most boring SUV.
The third generation failed to escape the boring reputation and was simply an average SUV. I, personally, couldn’t find a single reason to own one. One addition to the third generation that was interesting, however, was that Mercedes-Benz dropped the rear-differential lock and made it a proper soft off-roader. Additionally, the facelifted ML became the GLE!
We are now graced with the presence of the fourth generation of this historic brand and the design reached a different level. It looks hilarious and it kind of resembles the early sketches of the M-Class in the mid-1990s. Despite its melted LEGO design, it has some good tech underneath. Now, if you lose traction, the suspension system increases the pressure on the wheels to increase the traction, which is a brilliant trick! Unfortunately, Mercedes-Benz has yet to outline whether the new GLE has the rear differential lock or not.
Keep in mind, if you buy a 4-cylinder version, it will contain the old 4MATIC system. If you buy the larger engines, you will benefit from the new 4MATIC system that, currently, very little is known about.
Worth to buy? Kind of! The BMW X5 looks like an estate car and the Audi Q7 looks quite interesting. The Range Rover is being a Range Rover. Literally, it is up to you.
Photo credit // Mercedes-Benz