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Mercedes-Benz GLE gains power, efficiency in wider model range (pictures)

NEW YORK -- At the 2015 New York auto show, Mercedes-Benz showed off a wider model range than ever for its GLE SUV, formerly the ML model, with a high-powered AMG version and a very economical plug-in hybrid.

Wayne Cunningham
Wayne Cunningham reviews cars and writes about automotive technology for CNET's Roadshow. Prior to the automotive beat, he covered spyware, Web building technologies, and computer hardware. He began covering technology and the Web in 1994 as an editor of The Net magazine.
Wayne Cunningham
Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

Mercedes-Benz enacted a name change for many of its models last year, updating its old ML five passenger SUV with a GLE name plate.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

At the New York auto show, Mercedes-Benz showed more than just a name change, giving the newly christened GLE new drivetrains and performance technology.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

The Mercedes-AMG GLE63 is a new high-performance version in the GLE line.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

As per Mercedes-AMG styling, this model gets a single-bar grille.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

Mercedes-Benz's 4Matic all-wheel-drive system comes standard on the GLE63.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

An air suspension can increase ground clearance, but can also stiffen the suspension for better handling.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

Mercedes-AMG fits the GLE63 with a 5.5-liter V-8 engine using twin turbochargers, one for each bank of cylinders.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

Output from the GLE63's twin turbo V-8 is rated at 550 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, while a GLE63 S version increases output to 577 horsepower and 561 pound-feet or torque.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

A system called Active Curve uses the GLE63's stabilizer bars to counteract roll in the turns and keep the tires in full contact with the pavement.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

An LED headlight system will be available.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

The 21-inch wheels suit the proportions of the GLE63.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

In the cabin, the Mercedes-Benz Comand interface includes this ergonomic touch controller for navigation, stereo and phone systems.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

A dial next to the Comand controller lets you choose drive settings, affecting suspension and engine response.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

As a high-trim model, the cabin features many material options, such as leather, carbon fiber and aluminum.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

Sport seats feature the AMG logo.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

The speedometer goes up to 200 mph.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

Rear-seat passengers can enjoy individual entertainment screens.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

Carbon fiber trim surrounds Mercedes-Benz's traditional door-mounted seat controls.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

A flat-bottom steering wheel emphasizes the GL63's sport focus.

Mercedes-AMG GLE63
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Mercedes-AMG GLE63

The Mercedes-AMG GLE63 joins a very small set of high-performance SUVs when it hits the market.

Mercedes-Benz G550e
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Mercedes-Benz G550e

As another option in Mercedes-Benz's GLE lineup, the GLE550e provides a sweet spot of power and efficiency.

Mercedes-Benz G550e
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Mercedes-Benz G550e

The GLE550e is a plug-in hybrid, adding electric propulsion to its twin turbocharged 3-liter V-6.

Mercedes-Benz G550e
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Mercedes-Benz G550e

Mercedes-Benz rates the output from the GLE550e's drivetrain at 436 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The GLE550e is also capable of driving under electric power alone, with a stated range of 18.6 miles.

Mercedes-Benz G550e
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Mercedes-Benz G550e

The GLE550e comes standard with all-wheel drive, called 4Matic by Mercedes-Benz. The gasoline filler sits at its usual place on the right rear fender, while a charging port for the batter is mounted on the left corner of the bumper.

Mercedes-Benz G550e
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Mercedes-Benz G550e

Wood trim and quilted upholstery adorn the cabin, emphasizing Mercedes-Benz's luxury side.

Mercedes-Benz G550e
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Mercedes-Benz G550e

Mercedes-Benz's cabin electronics include the center screen with navigation, app integration, stereo and hands-free phone system.

Mercedes-Benz G550e
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Mercedes-Benz G550e

The center screen can show a power flow animation, a real-time schematic of engine and battery output.

Mercedes-Benz G550e
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Mercedes-Benz G550e

The driver can choose Comfort, Sport and Snow settings with this center dial.

Mercedes-Benz G550e
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Mercedes-Benz G550e

An 8.5-kilowatt lithium ion battery pack intrudes into the cargo area, raising the load floor by about 6 inches.

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