PROS Stonking acceleration from the twin-turbo V-8, smoothest start-stop system around, impressive ride and handling balance.
CONS Lazy transmission tuning, properly expensive, heavier and less involving than a similarly capable sports sedan or wagon.
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class comes with a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. basic warranty, a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. powertrain warranty. AMG GLE 53 makes 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft.Standard 48-volt EQ Boost system adds 21 hp and 184 lb-ft.MBUX infotainment system.
PROS Modern, luxurious interior appointments Turbocharged inline-six engine is smooth and powerful MBUX infotainment is one of the best in the business
CONS Choppy ride on less than perfect surfaces Body style heavily restricts rear visibility
Pros Ear-shattering V8 engine EQ Boost system improves efficiency Muscular styling Luxurious, spacious cabin Much-improved infotainment system Race Mode delivers precise steering
Cons Can't fully mask its size It can't fully defy physics Ride will be too firm for some Requires expensive optional extras Infotainment system can be intimidating at first
The 2020 GLB-Class is the smallest Mercedes that can be equipped with three rows of seats.
Pros Chunky styling Lots of tech Right-sized
Cons Third row looks tight Too many Mercedes SUVs? Bound to be expensive
Slotting into the narrow space between the GLA-Class and the GLC-Class is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class compact crossover, but this mini-ute pulls its boxier styling from the vaunted GLE- and G-Class SUVs. We saw the concept in April at the Shanghai auto show and Mercedes-Benz unveiled the production model, in all its mini-ute glory, at an event in June; we expect the GLB to be on sale by the end of 2019.
Mercedes-Benz launches new-generation cars every other week, but whole new nameplates are rarer things. Enter the family-focused GLB small SUV...
Pros Back seat and boot space Comfortable suspension Cool design inside and out
Cons Transmission calibration issues Base engine is nothing special Is there scope for a diesel?
