When Mercedes-Benz created its most iconic off-road vehicle, it was named as straightforward as can be—“G-Class,” where “G” stands for “Geländewagen” (German for ‘off-road vehicle’). But “G” could might as well stand for “Genes,” since the G-class genes can be recognized in all the succeeding SUVs of Mercedes-Benz.
Local Mercedes-Benz distributor Auto Nation Group, Inc. unveiled the newest G-Class and the new members of Mercedes-Benz SUV family last November 23, 2015 at the Rockwell Tent. This was the first introduction to the Philippines of the GLE, GLE Coupe, and GLC.
As in a family where its members share common genes but exhibit different personalities, the Mercedes-Benz SUVs have distinctive personalities but all share a unified goal to conquer every terrain imaginable.
It comes as no surprise then, that Mercedes-Benz’s new worldwide campaign is to “make the best of every terrain.” Each of the Mercedes-Benz SUVs are designed to master any type of ground.
After having met the members of the new Mercedes-Benz SUVs, here are some highlights:
G-Class
A true design icon with a recognizable exterior, the G-Class stays true to its values of compactness, high ground clearance and robust offroad capability. Inside, the new G-Class has a more efficient, powerful engine and an improved suspension. Outside, the new G-Class has a redesigned bumper and extended fenders.
GLC
The GLC is a true-all rounder, inside and out. It’s built to be an ideal companion in the city, with the abilitiy to master difficult terrain superbly. It combines ultimate driving comfort with a sporty touch. The new GLC’s exterior combines both a modern and a timeless appearance, with a design philosophy that favors sensual purity and modern aesthetics over the classic off-road look. A side that showcases an almost coupé-like greenhouse and a 118-millimeter longer wheelbase lend the GLC a long, elegant profile.
GLE
This Mercedes-Benz SUV seller has been substantially revised. At first glance, the new GLE’s more appealing front and tail ends are noticeable. The whole exterior blends tradition with modernity. The new GLE retained the characteristic C-pillar and the harmoniously integrated rear side window, which has been an integral part of this model since its first introduction in 1997. Modern elements of the new GLE are seen in the sensous designs of its radiator grille, bumpers, headlamps, wings and its bonnet with two power domes.
The new GLE also allows the driver to change the vehicle set-up for every type of ground through its Dynamic Select controller. Selecting a drive program tailors the characteristics of the engine, transmission and steering to those of the suspension, which choices of “Comfort”, “Sport”, and “Slippery.”
GLE Coupé
Through the GLE Coupé, Mercedes-Benz combines two vehicle types in one new model. The GLE Coupé combines the sportiness and dynamism of a coupé, with the robust, confident presence and versatility of an SUV.
The GLE Coupé is eye-catching with its flowing side contour, elongated and low greenhouse, striking radiator grille with central chrome louvre and rear end design. The GLE Coupé is available in diesel or petrol variant. It comes with a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission and 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive.
With all these impressive personalities from the Mercedes-Benz SUV family, it’s not an overstatement to say that the people who met these SUVs at the Auto Nation Group’s launch can’t wait to see them come alive from the showroom to overcome all sorts of Philippine terrain. For Mercedes-Benz SUVs, making the most out of every terrain comes as effortlessly as can be. It’s in their genes after all.
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Karen Jimeno is a junior partner at Jimeno Cope & David Law Firm and a law professor. She hosts LegalHD on CNN Philippines Tuesdays at 9:30PM. She graduated from UP Law School and Harvard Law School, and is licensed to practice law in the Philippines and in New York.