KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has officially launched the powerful GLE 400 e 4Matic with EQ Hybrid Technology AMG Line, bringing plug-in hybrid capability to its large luxury sports utility vehicle line-up.
The locally assembled GLE 400 is touted to blend electrified performance, high-end opulence, and a commanding road presence - all for the price of RM498,888 (on-the-road, without insurance).
While this SUV comes with a four-year, unlimited mileage warranty, an eight-year or 160,000km warranty covers the battery.
Colour choices include Obsidian Black, Selenite Grey, High-tech Silver, and Polar White, while Opalite White Bright is available as an optional extra under the premium Manufaktur options list.
Although it uses a familiar 2.0-litre (1,999cc) petrol engine producing 252hp at 5,800rpm and 400Nm of torque from 2,000 to 3,200rpm, an electric motor producing 115kW and 400Nm alone works in tandem with the engine and receives power from a 31.2kWh lithium-ion battery which can be charged via an 11kW onboard AC charger.
With a total systems output of 381hp and 650Nm of torque, this GLE is able to sprint from 0 to 100kph in 6.1 seconds before reaching a top speed of 210kph and provide up to 114km (WLTP) in EV (Electric Vehicle) mode.
The "twist" is managed by a nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission for the 4Matic permanent all-wheel-drive system, and owners will be able to manipulate its behaviour via the Dynamic Select, which provides Battery Hold, Offroad, Electric, hybrid, Sport and Individual driving modes.
Further helping to enhance comfort and/or agility is the standard inclusion of an air suspension system (Airmatic Package) that comes with an adaptive damping (ADS+) system.
This SUV is fitted with the AMG Line exterior accoutrements, which include 21-inch AMG five-twin-spoke lightweight alloys, along with aluminium-looking running side boards, illuminated kick plates and a panoramic sliding sunroof to enhance its already upscale looks.
Inside, the cabin features an AMG Line interior, trimmed in a mix of man-made Artico leather and Microcut microfibre upholstery, and further complemented by Anthracite open-pore oak wood trim elements.
Upscale features include power-adjustable rear seats, heated front seats with Memory Package, and Thermotronic automatic climate controls.
For added convenience, there's Keyless-Go, Hands-free Access, and an Easy-Pack (hands-free operation) tailgate, as well as wireless charging, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard.
Additionally, the Parking Package, a 360-degree camera and Active Parking Assist with Parktronic help do away with the hassle of parking.
The dashboard is dominated by the 12.3-inch Widescreen instrument cluster for the driver and the latest 11.9-inch MBUX multimedia touchscreen system with a fingerprint sensor to power the premium Burmester surround sound system.
While the digital extras include MBUX Augmented Reality Navigation and Hard-disc navigation, the system also features the Transparent bonnet function that works in conjunction with the 360-degree camera system to allow off-roaders to "watch" what goes below the front axle.
A comprehensive Driving Assistance Package has also been provided to enhance safety levels, featuring Active Distance Assist Distronic with extended automatic restart on motorways, Active Steering Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Assist.
“As a plug-in hybrid variant, the GLE 400 e 4Matic with EQ Hybrid Technology AMG Line serves as a bridge to full electrification, giving customers the flexibility to experience cutting-edge technology at their own pace,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia CEO and president Amanda Zhang.
Adding to this was Mercedes-Benz Malaysia vice-president of marketing and sales Nadia Trimmel who added that with up to 114km of electric range and state-of-the-art driver assistance systems, the GLE 400 e provides a seamless blend of efficiency, refinement, and effortless handling.
"Its powerful exterior design, elegantly crafted interior, and agile driving character make it a versatile SUV that elevates every journey,” said Trimmel.
