New Mercedes Benz GLE is a stunning model that rivals will struggle to match

While many would like to press the pause button on the barrage of SUVs of all sizes coming on stream, Mercedes-Benz can claim the right to be involved at the luxury end with their new GLE.

Arguably it was Mercedes that started this segment back in the late 1990s when it launched the ML-Class. This latest version of their big SUV is a far cry from those days and for those with deep pockets it is impressive for all the right reasons.

It is a proper rival to SUVs like the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Land Rover Discovery and Volvo XC90 and will get the vote ahead of most of these for its fuel economy, its lip-smacking interior, its space, and its relative composure on the road.

It would be worth your while to have a look at any Mercedes interior just to experience how the brand has turned its classic interior into a benchmark for drivers and passengers alike. The layout is startling, with the perfect mix of wonderful Nappa leather, quality panel materials that are stitched together brilliantly, and how Mercedes designers make use of chrome highlights and inserts with an eye for just the right amount in just the right places.

The seating is firm and comfortable and the placement of storage compartments compliments the overall practicality of the cabin. For the driver and front seat passenger there is four-way electrical adjustments that offers headrest and height adjustment and lumber support settings to suit every posture.

You are sitting up high in the GLE and this adds to the sense of safety and the visibility you get from that position. Only the view out the back is somewhat restricted because of the tunnelling effect of the shape and the size of the rear headrests but, you do get rear view cameras and front and rear sensors to keep you in line.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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