• GLE 300d makes use of a 2.0-litre engine and all-wheel-drive.

• GLE range consists of eight models, including an AMG derivative.

• 'Hey Mercedes' is standard across the GLE range.

• For more motoring stories, go to www.Wheels24.co.za

Our test unit, the GLE 300d 4Matic AMG Line, is the second model in the GLE range, beginning life at R1 417 080 - before options. It's a fair bit of money, but you are treated to an SUV that impresses on several fronts. Big and bulky it may be, but it is a wholly impressive machine.

When gleaning your eyes over the GLE, you might think that this is a heavy machine. And you'd be right because this SUV has a kerb weight of 2165kg. That's a whole lot heavier than many of the more common, and more affordable, SUVs on the road. The sheer size of the SUV is explicitly found all around it.

Face the front, and the huge grille confronts you with its massive air intakes. In the middle, the badge takes prominence with a single bar running diagonally across it. The clear giveaway that this is the AMG Line is the pattern on the grille, reserved for these types of models. Below the headlights are two openings. Though they are enclosed and not feeding any air to the brakes, the two chrome strips add a nice touch to the design.

At the rear, a chrome bar runs across the rear bumper and houses the dual exhaust outlets. Our vehicle is specified with the optional 20-inch tyres; rounding off the package with aplomb.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 300d 4Matic AMG Line (Wheels24 / Charlen Raymond)

Practical interior

There is ample space for five passengers inside the GLE's cabin; seven if you opt for the extra two seats. Occupants are treated to plenty of comfort, and long journeys do not become a tiresome exercise. The GLE's cabin is roomy thanks to its overall dimensions. At over 4.9m in length and a width of 1947mm (excluding side mirrors), it is understandable why the big brute is such a sizeable vehicle.

Open the boot, and users are treated to 630L of load volume capacity. Fold the second row of seats flat and that capacity increases to 2055L. That, by any standard, is a sizeable space to utilise. Mercedes-Benz also says that this model has an unbraked towing capacity of 750kg, and 2700kg unbraked.

Other notable features include a multi-function steering wheel that is both intuitive and easy to use; operating the information display in front of the driver and the cruise control. The car is also fitted with Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), better known as 'Hey Mercedes'.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 300d 4Matic AMG Line (Daimler Media)

Hiding its size

As mentioned, the GLE is a sizeable vehicle. Get moving, and you are confronted with how weighty the steering wheel feels when you execute the initial pull-away. Though not troublesome, an unaware driver could feel daunted by it. Luckily, the 'Dynamic' driving mode selector allows for the suspension and steering feel to be adjusted accordingly.

The GLE 300d implements a turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel engine that produces 180kW and 500Nm. Though it does not seem like an adequate fit, the engine feels eager to haul the SUV around. The nine-speed automatic gearbox is cogs over with ease, always finding the right gear when needed. And it goes a long way in supporting a fuel return of under 7.0-litres/100km.

Our test unit was specified with the optional air suspension, which adds greater ride comfort to the GLE.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 300d 4Matic AMG Line (Wheels24 / Charlen Raymond)

In summary

The GLE 300d AMG Line is an impressive vehicle. From the way it hides its size once on the move to the well-specified cabin, it's a good package that will impress anyone. If there is a gripe, then it has to be the somewhat uninspiring dashboard. While intuitive, it is very generic to other Merc interiors. On the one hand, it creates a sense of familiarity. But on the other, one would appreciate a little something else.

Luckily, it does not detract from what the SUV offers.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 300d 4Matic AMG Line (Wheels24 / Charlen Raymond)