SPY PICS: Mercedes-Benz GLE for Paris

Mercedes-Benz could take the next step in hands-free driving technology when its new-generation GLE large SUV hits Australia next February.

Caught here by Automedia and disguised only minimally, the new GLE will make its world debut at the Paris motor show in October.

It will be an all-new vehicle, rolling on Benz’s new light-weight MHA (Modular High Architecture) component set for crossovers and SUVs that is a close relation of MRA (Modular Rear Architecture) that underpins the C-Class and E-Class.

But according to motoring.com.au’s European sources familiar with the GLE, it will feature a sophisticated electrical architecture upgrade capable of delivering Level 3 autonomy.

That means the GLE, which prior to 2015 was known as the M-Class or ML, should be able to handle safety-critical functions without driver monitoring.

However, a driver is still required in the car to provide oversight. When a vehicle reaches Level 4 capability the driver’s role is reduced further. At the maximum Level 5, there is no driver apart from the vehicle.

At the moment, Benz offers Level 2 vehicles in Australia that require driver oversight and allow only limited hands-off driving.

While the new Audi A8 is expected to be the first car with theoretical Level 3 capability sold in Australia, the feature won’t be activated locally. Instead, it will at least initially retain only Level 2 capability.

That’s because Australia is still developing its autonomy capability in terms of legislation, legal and liability issues and infrastructure.

Mercedes-Benz Australia-Pacific will likely face the same choice for GLE as Audi has for the A8. But it isn’t talking about the vehicle yet, because its local on-sale timing is yet to be officially confirmed.

Meanwhile, European reports indicate the GLE range will kick off with a rear-wheel drive model weighing less than two tonnes and the new body’s aerodynamic efficiency will also improve.

All that, along with MHA and new turbo-petrol four- and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines – and hybrid offerings – is expected to help reduce fuel consumption across the range by a staggering 20 per cent.

Of course, there will also be AMG models for the performance fans. But as part of the general downsizing move across the industry, the next GLE 63 will trade its current 5.5-litre V8 for the widespread M177 4.0-litre biturbo V8.

Excitingly, the tip is it will get the 450kW output seen in the E 63 S, which makes sense as the smaller, cheaper GLC 63 S – just released in Australia -- gets the 375kW version.

Expect the V8 AMG to come with the Panamericana grille and quad exhaust outlets.

If the budget can’t stretch to the 63 then the new 53 inline six-cylinder with its exhaust-driven turbocharger and electric compressor will have to do.

Judging by Automedia’s photography, the GLE’s exterior will be a handsome evolution that stays true to Benz’s minimalist styling language.

Inside, the latest dual-screen dashboard will feature, along with the new MBUX infotainment system that debuts in the A-Class that goes on sale in Australia in August.

Meanwhile, the next-gen seven-seat GLS is also on the way soon, although the BMW X7 rival is still heavily disguised in the latest spy pics, suggesting a 2019 debut.

Like GLE, it migrates to MHA for its new generation. One benefit should be better row-three accommodation.

The next GLS is also expected to be the basis for a new Mercedes-Maybach off-roader to take on the likes of the Bentley Bentayga. That vehicle was previewed at the Beijing motor show.