Sensuality and clarity are the two poles that have determined the design idiom of the Mercedes-Benz brand for almost 130 years and have their origin in the nature of the two inventors of the automobile, Carl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler: Benz was more rationally oriented in his behaviour, whereas Daimler was driven more by his passion. The new Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe demonstrates almost ideally how this bridge between intelligence and emotion, between tradition and modernity, blends into an attractive symbiosis.
The GLE Coupe not only skilfully embodies the firmly embedded principles of Mercedes-Benz design, but also focuses on the essential features of two entirely different automobile genres. On the one hand, the youngest member of the GLE family bears the decisive, essential stylistic feature of all modern Mercedes-Benz coupes: it combines sheer sportiness with a high-level aesthetic and sensual demand for modern luxury. At the same time, however, elements of the classic SUV are recognisable. With muscular wings, large wheel arches, tyres of up to 55.9 cm (22 inches) and also the high belt line and the generous ground clearance, this model takes the perception of a large, four-door coupe to the next level.
The extreme proportions with superior aesthetics of the new GLE Coupe have emerged from this stylistic gene pool. This is particularly due to the extremely exciting relationship between the low greenhouse and striking body; the silhouette signals dynamism and agility. The upright sports grille with single louvre, framed by three-dimensionally designed all-LED headlamps, is the major feature of the front end with its short, stylish overhang. The forward-sloping bonnet with its typical Mercedes power domes underscores the membership of the GLE Coupe in the line-up of particularly sporty Mercedes-Benz models. A discreet reference to the SUV genes of the vehicle is provided by the harmoniously integrated, illuminated running boards, a typical feature of classic SUVs or off-roaders and available as an option.
The coupe-like nature is also emphasised by the design of the rear end with its obvious elements of the design line first presented with the S-Class Coupe. The styling characteristics of this include the slim band of rear lights with their three-dimensional look, the wide chrome insert fitted above and the registration plate now incorporated into the rear bumper. Another feature that has for generations distinguished the large coupe models from Mercedes-Benz is the typical shape of the rear window which is rounded off at the top. A discreet SUV reference is made by the chrome-plated underride guard in the front and rear, here with the integrated twin tailpipe trim elements of the exhaust system.