Just last week, Mercedes-Benz India teased two upcoming models that would be launched by Diwali. The carmaker has now confirmed that the two models are the GLE facelift SUV and the new AMG C 43 sedan, and both will be launched on November 2.
- GLE gets revised styling and updated infotainment system
- AMG C 43 is powered by a 402hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine
Mercedes-Benz GLE facelift: exterior, interior, powertrain
In terms of design, the Mercedes-Benz GLE facelift gets a revised front bumper, tweaked LED headlights, new design for the alloy wheels and refreshed tail-lights. On the inside, the GLE facelift gets a new multifunction steering wheel from the S-Class with touch-sensitive controls, new trim and upholstery options, an updated MBUX infotainment system, which brings in new functions and graphics, and a more advanced version of Mercedes’ Distronic Plus active cruise control system.
The pre-facelift GLE was sold in India in three variants – 300d, 400d and 450. The GLE facelift retains the 300d and 450 variants, but the 400d has now been replaced with the 450d. In terms of output, the four-cylinder 300d puts out 269hp and 550Nm, the six-cylinder 450d produces 367hp and 750Nm, and the six-cylinder 450 petrol pushes out 381hp and 500Nm.
All these versions come paired with a 48V integrated starter-generator (ISG), giving it an additional 20hp and 200Nm. Mercedes is yet to confirm which variants of the GLE facelift will be available at launch, but expect the line-up to feature at least one diesel and one petrol option.
Mercedes has also introduced two PHEV variants – GLE 400e and GLE 350de – to the line-up internationally, but it remains to be seen if these versions will be sold here. As for rivals, the Mercedes GLE facelift goes up against the BMW X5, Audi Q7 and Range Rover Velar.
Mercedes-AMG C 43: exterior, interior, powertrain
The Mercedes-AMG C 43 sedan is also set to make its comeback to India, in the W206-gen avatar. In order to differentiate it from the standard C-Class sedan, the C 43 receives AMG’s Panamericana grille with vertical slats, adaptive LED headlights with a single Daytime Running Lamp, large air intakes on the front bumper with black accents, gloss-black wing mirrors, beefier side sills, 18-inch alloy wheels, quad tailpipes and a different rear bumper with a diffuser.
On the inside, the sedan gets AMG-specific digital graphics for the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and the 11.9-inch touchscreen. Other AMG-specific bits include a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, sports seats, pedals and red seat belts. In terms of competition, it rivals the BMW M340i and the Audi S5 Sportback in India.
Mercedes-AMG has also heavily reworked the chassis, added a revised front axle and improved the braking performance. Additionally, the C 43 gets the AMG Ride Control suspension and a modified exhaust for the characteristic AMG soundtrack.
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