True to Mercedes-Benz South Africa fashion, the brand launched and introduced a plethora (yep, you read that right) of SUVs to the local market towards the latter part of the year.
The line-up includes the legendary G-Class, GLB, GLE 400d, GLS, GLA and GLC models all of which we’re super excited to get driving in 2021. After the jump we unpack the updates Mercedes has afforded to each model and soon we’ll share our hands-on experience with them. Stay tuned.
Mercedes-Benz G400d – 4M J40 Edition
To mark its 40th anniversary in 2019, Mercedes-Benz had unveiled a range of highlights for the G-Class , starting with the special Stronger Than Time model – including the exclusive G 400 d, J40 Edition.
On paper, the G 400 d offers a combined fuel consumption of about 8.9-8.7 l/100 km, an output of 243 kW and an impressive maximum torque of 700 Nm.
The real treat from the G 400d is that it comes in AMG Line guise, with flared wheel arches over black 20- inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, AMG design elements in the bumpers and an exterior protective strip, brake callipers with Mercedes-Benz lettering and, The standard-fit Night Package gives the special model darkened lights as well as outside mirrors, a spare wheel ring and design elements in the bumpers in obsidian black and tinted rear windows.
For those obsessed with finer details, they’ll see it showcased at night: the surround lamp projects the G logo and the lettering ‘STRONGER THAN TIME’ onto the road. This special edition will set you back R2 874 000.
Mercedes-Benz GLB
Finally available on local soil, the new GLB is the first Mercedes-Benz in the compact segment that is optionally available as a seven-seater, and is powered by completely updated four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines that offer a combination of fuel economy and performance.
Buyers are able to choose from the GLB 250 and the GLB 220 d 4MATIC. On paper, the GLB 250 offers a combined fuel consumption 7.4-7.1 l/100 km while the two-litre diesel engine in the GLB 220d 4MATIC offers a combined fuel consumption of 5.4-5.1 l/100 km.
For those obsessed with tech, driving assistance systems are drawn from the S-Class, with improved camera and radar systems that allow the GLB to see up to 500 metres ahead and drive in semi-automated mode in certain situations. Pricing starts from R831 000.
Mercedes-Benz GLE 400d Coupe
Only the the GLE 400 d 4MATIC Sports Coupe is available under the GLE range in Mzansi at the moment, which offers a powerful 3.0 litre six-cylinder diesel engine that delivers 243 kW and 700 Nm of torque. On paper this results in a brisk 0-100 time of 5.7 seconds at a combined fuel consumption of 7.4-6.9 l/100 km.
According to Mercedes, the new GLE Coupé combines the modern luxury, elegance and sportiness of a coupé with the robustness and technology of the latest large premium SUV models.
Where are the changes? The new GLE Coupé is 4939 mm long and 2010 mm wide, making it 9mm longer and 7mm wider than the outgoing model.
The interior of the new GLE Coupé shares numerous features with the other models in the new premium-SUV family and clearly emphasises the sporty aspect. A familiar sight is the modern cockpit with two large 31.2 cm screens. The strikingly styled instrument panel, horizontally divided by a trim tier, transitions seamlessly into the door panels. Pricing starts from R1 814 000.
Mercedes-Benz GLS
The new Mercedes-Benz GLS is even larger than its predecessor, with a 60 mm longer wheelbase that provides increased interior spaciousness, and combines striking looks with outstanding comfort, agile handling and a high degree of off-road capability.
Local buyers will be able to choose from the new Mercedes-Benz GLS 400d 4M and Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 4M, which marks the world première of a new electrified V8 petrol engine with 48-volt on-board electrical system and integrated starter-generator.
The GLS 580 4MATIC’s new electrified V8 petrol engine has a displacement of four litres and produces an output of 360 kW and 700 Nm of torque, with another 250 Nm of torque and 16 kW of additional output temporarily on tap via EQ Boost. Combined fuel consumption is around 10.1-9.8 l/100 km.
The GLS 400 d 4MATIC produces 243 kW and 700 Nm of torque, with combined fuel consumption of 7.9-7.6 l/100 km. Starting retail price is at R1 842 000.
If you had the opportunity, which model would like a drive in? Let us know in the comments below!
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