Three engines make up the 2020 GLE lineup, with both the GLE 350 and its 4Matic counterpart receiving a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four developing 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The mid-spec GLE 450 receives a newly developed turbocharged six-cylinder developing 362 hp and a hefty 369 lb-ft of torque with the assistance of a mild-hybrid EQ Boost system which can add a further 21 hp when needed. Introduced later in the model year, the GLE 580 takes pride of place at the top of the food chain with a 4.0-liter bi-turbo V8 paired to the same EQ Boost system as the 450. It's a mighty fine combination, with the gas engine producing 483 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque on its own. All are equipped with the latest generation nine-speed automatic gearbox.

The new inline-six engine we test drove is a gem, with smooth power at almost any rpm. Mash the throttle, and the inline-six loves to deliver smooth bursts of acceleration all the way up to redline. Power is so readily available thanks to the mild-hybrid assist, it almost feels like a normally aspirated engine. As a luxury item, the 3.0-liter mill is tough to beat but it lacks the sporty exhaust note found in the GLE 580. The EQ Boost also provides one of the smoothest start-stop systems we've ever tested, which is virtually undetectable. If you find yourself constantly turning off stop-start in your car, we promise the GLE's system will completely change your opinion on this feature.

And although the inline-six is remarkable smooth, it is slightly let down by Mercedes' 9G-Tronic transmission. The gearbox shifts smoothly during acceleration but can produce jerky shifts when slowing down. It is a minor complaint in an otherwise brilliant powertrain.