Launch Schedule Summary

The all-new locally-produced Mercedes-Benz long-wheelbase GLE SUV will officially launch on September 16, 2024, following its rollout from Beijing Shunyi plant on September 1, 2024. This China-specific extended version features the following core specs:

• Launch Date: September 16, 2024
• Model Variant: China-specific long-wheelbase version (3115mm wheelbase)
• Powertrain: 3.0L inline-6 engine + 17kW ISG starter-generator + 48V mild-hybrid system
• Standard Equipment: 4MATIC all-wheel drive, AIRMATIC air suspension, AR head-up display, new urban & highway.Navigation Assist (/goto车位)
• Smart Cockpit: Pre-installed Doubao AI large model virtual assistant; future OTA upgrades to include Momenta R7 world model
• Efficiency Notes: Electric auxiliary turbocharger boosts torque by 12% (to 560 N·m); ISG + 48V system improve fuel economy

China-Specific Design and Interior Upgrades

The long-wheelbase GLE achieves a 3115mm wheelbase—specially extended for Chinese market demand—paired with a 5-seater configuration to maximize rear cabin space and cargo capacity. Key China-focused design elements:

• Front features dual “Double Star Emblems” LED headlamps; illuminated central star badge and glowing grille borders amplify visual presence
• Interior employs triple-screen layout (digital instrument cluster + center display + passenger-side display) for enhanced tech orientation
• Standard sliding opening panoramic sunroof with segmented electric control
• Optional seat vibration massage function for premium comfort

A notable detail: Though positioned in the premium SUV segment, the vehicle retains a hybrid powertrain rather than full electrification. Counterintuitive Point: Despite being a new-generation model launched in 2024,奔驰 chooses a “hybrid-enhanced” strategy—combining a 3.0T engine with 48V mild-hybrid—over launching a dedicated pure-EV variant, reflecting Mercedes’ pragmatic transition approach.

Smart Driving and Driver Assistance Systems

BEV (Bird’s Eye View) refers to a surround-view perception fusion technique; Transformer is the dominant AI backbone architecture for large language models.

The AR head-up display integrates navigation cues with real-world driving visuals for immersive guidance. The new urban and highway Navigation Assist enables true “from gate to gate” journeys—automated assistance from residential complex entrance, through city streets and highways, to parking space entry. This system relies on fused sensor inputs (cameras, radar, possibly LiDAR) with neural network models for path planning and execution.

4MATIC intelligent all-wheel drive comes standard; in越野 (off-road) mode, AIRMATIC suspension can lift an additional 30mm, raising minimum ground clearance to 271mm. AIRMATIC is Mercedes-Benz’s proprietary name for its active air suspension system with multi-level damping control.

Buyer Recommendations

• Best for: Families prioritizing rear seat comfort and long-distance ride quality; commuters facing frequent highway or congested urban traffic who value mature L2+ navigation-assist capabilities; those favoring hybrid balance over full electrification.
• Consider Waiting: If pure-EV propulsion is preferred, monitor upcoming EQE or all-electric GLE variants; if waiting for full R7 world model functionality, track post-launch OTA update roadmaps.

Final Note

Mercedes-Benz demonstrates heightened localization through the long-wheelbase GLE by integrating Chinese smart cabin ecosystems (Doubao AI) and domestic智驾 partners (Momenta). This signals a shift from technology transfer to ecosystem co-creation—a sign of deepening国产 conjugation depth among premium brands.