What you see here is one of the 13+ models that Mercedes-Benz India will showcase at the Auto Expo next month. It is, of course, the all-new GLE and it arrives in two variants – 300 d and 400 d. The ‘4Matic’ badge will accompany both of them. Their prices, in the same order, are Rs 73.70 lakh and Rs 1.25 crore (ex-showroom India). Why such a massive price difference? That’s because the former will be locally assembled, whereas the latter will come via the CBU (Completely Built Unit) route. Anyone familiar with Mercedes’ variant-naming technique will immediately confirm that both derivatives are diesel-powered. For the first time, the GLE comes in a long-wheelbase (LWB) form. Compared to the standard GLE, the LWB version has an 80mm longer wheelbase.

Both variants come equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. The 300 d has 241bhp/500Nm on tap from a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. In this spec, the GLE can complete the sprint from nothing to 100kmph in 7.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 225kmph. The range-topper, 400 d, gets its juices from a 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder turbo-diesel mill. That produces 326bhp/700Nm, which is enough for a 0-100kmph time of 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 240kmph. The diesel power-plants comply with the stricter BS6 (Bharat Stage 6) emission norms.

As you’d expect, the GLE comes loaded with features. The SUV packs gizmos such as ambient lighting, two 12.3-inch displays (one acting as a digital instrument cluster, whereas the other is the control centre for MBUX infotainment system), support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a panoramic sunroof, four-zone climate control, electric and massaging seats with memory function, LED-powered headlamps and taillamps, rain-sensing wipers and cruise control. On the safety front, the GLE comes with features such as front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot assist, a 360-degree camera, active braking assist and up to 9 airbags.

The company says that for the first quarter of this year, it has already sold out all units of the GLE 300 d. As far as the possibility of a petrol-powered GLE is concerned, that will depend on the market needs. In India, the new Mercedes-Benz GLE competes with the Volvo XC90, BMW X5 and the Audi Q7. Out of the lot, which one would be your pick?