What is the Difference Between the M-Class and the New 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Changes

It’s time to say goodbye to a long-time favorite. The M-Class will not return next year. In its place will be the GLE-Class. Although it is being labeled as a complete redesign, the differences are nowhere near as dramatic as the 2016 GLC-Class vs. 2015 GLK. Still, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class changes are significant and do make it preferable to the outgoing M-Class.

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class changes consist mostly of visual and functional improvements. With a slight increase in power, the same five engines are offered, ranging from 200 horsepower to over 500. The transmission is the same 7-speed automatic, but this is only true for U.S. models. There will also be a 9-speed automatic available for the diesel versions overseas, which could make it one of the most fuel efficient Mercedes-Benz models in the future.

The exterior has some subtle, but cool changes. The hood’s design is more bold than the M-Class and the front grille has changed along with it to have only a single bar separating the headlights, which have been spread out a little bit. On the back of the car, LED taillights have been integrated to make the GLE look a little more modern and hip. The rest of the outside remains virtually unchanged.

The inside of the SUV has been upgraded to make room for the touch-screen command pad that is popping up in all Mercedes-Benz models. Located on the center console, the command pad was engineered to operate like a smartphone. The smartphone operation applies to actions such as zoom and rotate. The command pad is also used to switch between Dynamic Shift driving modes, which are new for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class changes. The GLE will include driving modes for slippery and off-road conditions, which are both new to the Mercedes-Benz lineup. Lastly, the 8-inch screen is larger than in the M-Class. It now more closely resembles other vehicles such as the E-Class and C-Class.

Though minimal, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class changes are well thought out and make the GLE an all-around better SUV than the M-Class.