Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the updated GLE and GLS, and as usual, there is a mountain of information with eight press releases provided in total, but we will save you the hassle of going through the paperwork. The German carmaker touted that the new GLE now has 3,000 new parts, which is 300 more than the 2,700 featured on the recently refreshed S-Class flagship.
Curiously, the brand remains suspiciously quiet on the part count for the new GLS, though it has clearly been busy elsewhere. Regardless, both models share a suite of upgrades that focus on turning them into supercomputers.
Both the new GLE and GLS feature the latest Mercedes-Benz Operating System, or MB.OS, which acts as a supercomputer that integrates every vehicle function and keeps the software current via over-the-air updates. This digital brain powers the MBUX Superscreen, which is now standard across both models and provides a single glass surface housing three 12.3-inch displays.
Following the modern trend for artificial intelligence (AI) integration these days, there is also the MBUX Virtual Assistant that uses AI to engage in complex, multi-part dialogues and can even manifest as various animated avatars on the central display.
To ensure the ride quality matches the high-tech interior, Mercedes-Benz has introduced a new cloud-based damper regulation system for the Airmatic air suspension. This system uses Car-to-X technology to receive anonymous hazard data from other vehicles on the road, allowing the suspension to electronically adjust the damping just before the car encounters a bump or a speed bump.
For those wanting even more stability, the optional e-active Body Control system uses five multi-core processors and over 20 sensors to analyse the driving situation 1,000 times per second and adjust the spring and damper forces at each wheel individually, to make the ride more comfortable for its occupants.
Under the bonnet, the entire engine range for the Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLS now features a 48V mild hybrid system with an integrated starter generator as standard across all variants. This setup enables functions such as coasting and recuperation to improve fuel efficiency while providing intelligent support at low speeds.
On the range-topping 580 4matic variants, the 4.0-litre V8 biturbo now features a flat-plane crankshaft, which is usually found in high-end supercars. This new setup is joined by a redesigned turbocharger and a clever firing order that bounces between the two sides of the engine.
Even with these mechanical changes, the SUV remains a library on wheels thanks to two balance shafts that iron out any unwanted vibrations. The result of all this engineering wizardry is 537 hp and 750 Nm, which is more than enough to propel occupants smoothly and comfortably without breaking a sweat.
Following the design language of the updated S-Class, both the GLE and GLS now feature revised exteriors with star-motif headlights equipped with the latest Digital Light technology. If you are struggling to tell them apart, you will need to count the stars.
The GLE features two horizontally arranged stars in its headlamps, whereas the GLS opts for three vertical stars. This star-spangled theme continues onto the face of both SUVs, where the larger radiator grilles are filled with a shimmering Mercedes-Benz star pattern.
The star-gazing finishes at the rear, where the GLE taillights sport a pair of three-dimensional emblems, while the GLS opts for a trio of stars on each side. Both cars feature an illuminated chrome frame around the grille, and for the first time, the standing star on the GLS bonnet can be illuminated as well.
ALSO READ: Is the all-new Mercedes-Benz VLE the most luxurious MPV to date?
UPDATED MERCEDES-BENZ GLE GALLERY
UPDATED MERCEDES-BENZ GLS GALLERY
