2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV

GLE SUV Will Share Engine Options With New GLT Pickup Truck

2018 Mercedes-Benz GLT Specifications

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLT is expected to hit showroom floors this time next year and it will compete against the likes of the Toyota Tundra, Chevy Colorado, and even the Ford F-150. Because it will be a smaller size, it is easier to know what kinds of engines might show up under the hood. Actually, it will be very similar to the GLE in terms of power specifications and trims.

Compare the GLT to other Mercedes-Benz SUVs

Mercedes-Benz GLT350 4MATIC

Because it will be close in size with the GLE, the GLT will be available as a GLT350 or GLT400, at least at first. The GLT350 will feature a 3.5L V6 with just over 300 horsepower, also available as the GLT350 4MATIC. These are respectable numbers for an entry-level Mercedes-Benz, and saving $10,000 will be tempting, but the GLT400 will definitely be a better purchase, both for power and efficiency.

Mercedes-Benz GLT400 4MATIC

Under the hood of the GLT400, you will find a 3.0L Biturbo V6. The very same that lives in the GLE, GL-Class, or the SLC Roadster. It has 329 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, but it also is more efficient than the naturally aspirated 3.5L V6.

Mercedes-AMG GLT63 S

Unfortunately, there won’t be any Mercedes-AMG models of the GLT until late 2017 or early 2018, but when it happens, it could be a game changer in the light-duty pickup segment. By means of a 5.5L Biturbo V8, the GLT63 would close in on 600 horsepower. The question is whether or not it would be built for the road or the trail. An off-road package is the obvious answer but we expect to see some street-faring GLT trucks that will give sports cars a run for their money. What do you think? Will the GLT receive a warm welcome from the pickup community or is it destined to fall short of the utility of the GLE?