Mercedes hasn't fully redesigned the midsize GLE since the 2012 model year, when it was called the M-Class. And despite a refresh for 2016, the crossover is starting to look a little dated, especially when compared to the modern E-Class. Fortunately, the German automaker is preparing a next-generation version, and we get a good glimpse of it in these shots.

Our spy photographers caught two versions of the GLE testing on the road. The vehicle with two bars running across the grille is a standard model. On this version, the grille looks similar to the one on its predecessor, but it appears the headlights aren't as rounded. We notice this version also has body cladding along the wheels, although it's unclear if the final version will have this feature. The other vehicle that has one bar in its grille is the AMG version. Along with the new diamond-patterned grille, it features a sportier front bumper and bigger air intakes.

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Both prototypes seem to have lost many of the bold character lines we're used to seeing across the doors of the GLE. In the back, the taillights have become narrower, and there is a new lip above the license plate holder. The bumper area also looks quite different than before.

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The part of the current GLE that ages it the most is its interior. Now, Mercedes has completely revamped the cabin with fewer buttons. Obviously, this prototype's interior isn't close to production ready, but we can see it's going to take after new vehicles in the Mercedes lineup. Following the E-Class, the GLE likely will receive the connected gauge cluster and infotainment setup as well as the four consecutive air vents that fall underneath.

Check out the gallery below for a closer look at the new GLE-Class.

Photo source: CarPix

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