Mercedes-Benz will launch its rival for the BMW X6 – the GLE – at the Detroit show in January. It will enter production at Daimler’s US plant in Alabama from 2015.

The automaker announced the model last June. It will effectively take the place of the R-Class – discontinued during 2013 – which did not sell as expected.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

The GLE is the first on Daimler’s new MHA architecture, a rear- and all-wheel drive platform for large SUVs and crossovers.

The GLE Coupe was previewed by the Concept Coupé which was exhibited at April 2014’s Beijing motor show. Daimler said that concept was 4,935mm long, 2,208mm wide (with mirrors), 1,739mm high on a wheelbase of 2,916mm.

Initial versions will be GLE 350 d 4MATIC (190kW/258hp & 620Nm diesel), GLE 400 4MATIC (245kW/333hp & 480Nm biturbo petrol V6) and GLE 450 AMG Coupé (270kW/367hp & 520Nm biturbo petrol V6).

PLDB (subscribers only) entry for GLE

Detroit 2015 new model debut list

Just Auto Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Auto Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
Continental has secured the Window Displays Innovation Award in the 2025 Just Auto Excellence Awards for its Window Projection solution, transforming side windows into dynamic, data-rich canvases. Discover how this compact projection technology and intelligent software are reshaping in-car UX and opening fresh revenue streams for OEMs and mobility providers.

Discover the Impact