Mercedes-Benz teases 2019 GLE interior
Official drawings show SUV will get more style-orientated interior with huge visual displaysMercedes-Benz has released images that are claimed to preview the next-generation GLE interior ahead of the luxury SUV's launch at the Paris motor show in September.
Unveiling a sportier, driver-centric approach for the next GLE, the SUV formerly known as the M-Class or ML is set to come equipped with a pair of twin digital displays similar to those seen in the Mercedes E- and S-Class.
Unlike both of those cars, however, the 2019 GLE will ditch freestanding displays for an integrated unit that sits below the upper part of the dash.
Explaining the new approach, interior design boss Hartmut Sinkwitz said: "We wanted to integrate the panel more seamlessly. It provides a greater feeling of sturdiness".
In the past, Mercedes' decision to mount its twin 12.3-inch displays has been limited for technical reasons, says Sinkwitz, but thanks to improved cooling of the screens they can now be integrated within the dash.
Not pictured is a new multi-function steering wheel the German car-maker plans to introduce in the GLE, which is claimed to provide 18 different controls working in concert with the two-touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel.
Sandwiched between both the driver and passenger seat will also be a large touch-pad that replaces the rotary dial used in the outgoing GLE.
The BMW X5 rival's infotainment system will be operated by the car-maker's MBUX interface that uses natural speech and information-gathering software for voice activation controls.
The 'Hey Mercedes' voice activation was recently introduced on the new A-Class hatch and works in co-operation with the Mercedes Me app.
Other new styling details showcased by the drawings are the addition of two large grab handles to the GLE's cabin, plus a wide centre console that not only frees space for the new touch-pad but liberates room for two large cup-holders.
Developed under the codename W167, the new GLE is based on the car-maker's MHA (Modular High Architecture) platform which is related to the MRA (Modular Rear Architecture) that underpins the C-, E- and S-Class models.
In time, MHA will spin-off a new GLE Coupe and replacements for both the GLC SUV and Coupe, and a new flagship GLS.
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