Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLE Coupe First Drive: Two not of a kind 2016

The Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLE Coupe could be considered fraternal twins. They have similar DNA, come from the same parent and have nearly identical names. Yet you look at the two side by side, and they are clearly different

The GLE is the new name for the former M-Class, Mercedes' boxy and muscular mid-size luxury SUV. Like other SUVs in the German automaker's lineup, its nomenclature is changing with the 2016 model year in an effort to align the lineup with its sedan siblings. In this case the "E" parallels the E-Series midsize sedan

With the new name, the SUV formerly known as the M-Class gets a freshening for 2016 that includes new front and rear fascias, lighting treatments, and interior upgrades such as a larger infotainment screen and more ergonomic Comand touchpad/rotary input module. The biggest news for the 2016 GLE is the addition of a plug-in hybrid that joins five other powerplant choices ranging from a small 4-cylinder diesel to a monstrous gasoline V8

The GLE Coupe, meanwhile, is all new. Meant to compete with the BMW X6, the highly contoured Coupe focuses on performance over utility and puts its individual style over everyday practicality. Mercedes-Benz invited us to preview both models over all manner of roads in Germany and Austria before they go on sale in mid-August. Here are our first blushes in each

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe first review

Unlike the regular GLE-Class, the GLE Coupe makes your choice of powertrain easy: there are only two. The GLE450 AMG Coupe uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 that makes 362 horsepower, while the brawny AMG GLE63 S Coupe is endowed with a 5.5-liter turbocharged V8 that corrals 577 ponies. Both come with Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel drive system and have been blessed with styling and components from the brand's AMG performance division. But these two models, which are supposed to be the crossover SUV equivalent of the stylish E-Class Coupe, have a wide gap in price. Where the GLE450 AMG Coupe starts just over $66,000, the extra potency of the AMG GLE63 S comes at a price tag beginning over $110,000. (Pricing for the regular GLE will be announced in the coming weeks

If the 215-horsepower difference doesn't already jump out at you on paper, it will when you drive the two back to back. The V8-powered GLE Coupe may just give you a power trip. The growl of its engine is addicting, and its straight-line performance only gets better as you toggle up from Comfort to Sport then Sport+ mode. Step on the accelerator, make the AMG GLE63 S Coupe tick down a couple of its seven gears, and you'll cackle as the exhaust note crackles

This isn't to say the GLE450 AMG Coupe is a slug. Its 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds is nearly a second and a half behind its far more expensive brother, but swift nonetheless. It just doesn't provide the reservoir of power generated by the V8 GLE Coupe. One of the best surprises about this model was the smoothness of its 9-speed transmission. This kind of setup has felt unrefined in other vehicles, but in our exposure, Mercedes' 9-speed was surprisingly seamless. Another big surprise: Both GLE Coupe models clung to the road far better than you'd expect from a heavy, higher-riding quasi-SUV

The GLE Coupe's styling, decreased cargo capacity and compromised rear visibility will no doubt turn off some buyers, but for individualistic types looking to make their own statement in a luxury vehicle for all seasons, Mercedes' newest crossover is the best rival yet to the BMW X6

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class first review

We spent much less time in the 2016 GLE, and it was spread across three of the six available powertrains. Still, we came away mostly satisfied all the same

Our first exposure was in the GLE550e 4Matic plug-in hybrid, which combines a turbocharged V6 gasoline engine with an electric motor. This plug-in hybrid SUV can travel some 18 miles on battery power alone, and has a total output of 436 horsepower -- plenty for quick acceleration and passing. Transitions between the gasoline engine and electric motor were smooth, and the SUV has the added perk of sublime quiet when traveling on electricity alone. One downside of this green SUV is less space under the rear cargo deck, where the battery pack resides

A plug-in hybrid isn't the only way to go farther on your energy dollar. An alternative is a diesel engine, and Mercedes makes some of the best. The GLE300d uses the familiar 2.1-liter 4-cylidner turbodiesel that was found in the outgoing ML250. Though small it size, it packs a lot of grunt in the form of 369 lb-ft of torque -- good for towing up to 6,600 pounds. But the real pleasure of a diesel is its fuel economy. In highway driving, this engine is rated up to 29 mpg -- an impressive number that we've found conservative in past models. The GLE300d isn't particularly quick with a 0-60 mph time of nearly 9 seconds, but it's still an excellent choice for those seeking a diesel SUV

Finally, we had a chance to take a Mercedes GLE luxury SUV where few buyers will roam -- but nevertheless can -- off-road. Using a turbocharged V6 GLE400 with the optional Off-Road Engineering Package, we had got a taste of what Mercedes-Benz's midsize luxury SUV is capable of when the asphalt ends. Dressed in all-terrain tires and with hardcore off-road components like a 2-speed transfer case and locking differential, this off-road luxury vehicle easily ascended and descended extreme grades and clawed its way over various terrain

With this package comes the Offroad+ drive mode that optimizes traction and, with the optional air suspension, grants up to 11 inches of ground clearance so the GLE can hop obstacles and wade through nearly 2 feet of water. Admittedly few American buyers opt for this setup, but we're nonetheless glad it's available. It's also indicative of the new 2016 GLE-Class lineup as a whole: Whether had as a roaring, V8-powered 6-figure SUV/coupe amalgamation, plug-in hybrid SUV or diesel-powered luxury utility vehicle, the new GLE-Class has models for a diverse range of tastes

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Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class unveiled 2016

The wraps have come off the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, and, as expected, the renamed GLK crossover SUV has made huge strides beyond its new look and features. Based on the latest C-Class platform, this 5-passenger compact has grown in scale and status. It now offers M-B's most advanced infotainment and safety technology to complement a far more refined dynamic character and enhanced off-road capability

Announced in Euro trims that include gasoline and turbodiesel models, AMG-spec variants and a plug-in hybrid, the GLC-Class will arrive here this November in rear-drive GLC 300 and GLC 300 4Matic guise. Both will be fitted with M-B's 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine making 241 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 273 lb-ft of torque from 1,300 to 4,000 revs. Regardless of driven wheels, the engine will be paired with a 9G-Tronic 9-speed automatic transmission

A touch of elegant edge 

The GLC-Class boasts bolder yet smoother and more sophisticated exterior styling - a look dubbed "Sensual Purity" by its designers. Mercedes says it offers class-leading aero figures in Europe and with its bounty of wind-cheating details and a full underbody fairing it promises to remain near the head of the class here as well, where it will arrive wearing a larger standard wheel/tire package. All U.S. models also will be fitted with unique front/rear bumpers optimized for off-road use that can accommodate 28-degree approach/departure angles

Although the new GLC-Class is 4.7 inches longer, 2.0 inches wider and has a significantly broader track than the GLK-Class, it weighs 176 pounds less. A full 110 pounds of that reduction comes from an all-new, stiffer, stronger core that interweaves aluminum with high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel. The mass-shedding formula for the new GLC-Class also includes using aluminum for the hood, roof and front fenders as well as most suspension components and magnesium for the transmission housing. The most notable gain in the GLC makeover involves a 4.6-inch stretch of its wheelbase, a change that adds to ride comfort and brings  2.2-inches of added leg room for those occupying its 40/20/40 flat-folding rear bench seat

Beyond the upgrades to overall people and cargo space, the cabin of the 2016 GLC-Class boasts a more sophisticated look and feel that recalls appearance of the new GLE-Class as well as other members of the M-B sedan family. The dash features a large fixed 7.0-inch center display while a console-mounted touchpad sits atop the rotary controller. U.S. models will come standard with brown linden wood trim and MB-Tex, but offer black open-pore ash, high-gloss brown burl walnut or a black piano-lacquer look as well as leather or Nappa leather options - including platinum pearl white in as part of the designo package. An internet-capable Audio 20 USB sound system with Frontbass is standard and Burmester premium upgrade will be offered. The new GLC-Class also benefits from extensive noise attenuation efforts that keep interior sound levels at freeway speeds equal to an E-Class sedan

Class-exclusive air suspension system

Underpinning the 2016 GLC-Class is an all-new suspension offered in two flavors that deliver superior performance compared to the GLK-Class. The standard Agility Control setup matches steel springs with adaptive dampers while the optional Air Body Control - the only full air suspension available in this category -- uses multi-chamber continuously adjustable shocks that serve up improved stability and comfort regardless of terrain. Both can be fine-tuned using the multi-mode Dynamic Select system that further tweaks the chassis, transmission, throttle and steering response. The 4Matic system also has been specifically redesigned for GLC-Class duty and features a new discrete single-stage transfer case that provides greater operating efficiency

On the driver-assist/safety front, the 2016 GLC-Class comes with standard features from the C-, E- and S-Class including Collision Prevention Assist Plus, Crosswind Assist, Attention Assist and Active Highbeam Assisted LED headlights. The Driver Assist Package includes Distronic Plus cruise control with Steering Assist, Pre-Safe Brake with pedestrian detection, BAS Plus with Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Pre-Safe Plus. A head-up display is optional

Buyers seeking to further personalize their new GLC-Class can choose from a noir-themed Night Package, two different design packages and an AMG Line trim group as well as single items like a panoramic glass roof with electric roller sunblind, rubber-studded aluminum-look running boards, an LED Intelligent Light System and the Easy Pack power tailgate with hands-free access. Pricing for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 and GLC 300 4MAtic as well as EPA fuel economy numbers will be announced closer to their actual on-sale date

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Mazda MX-5 Miata First Review 2016

Although the 2016 MX-5 Miata isn't expected to hit U.S. showrooms until the third quarter of 2015, Mazda flew us to Barcelona, Spain to get some seat time behind the wheel of a few Japanese-spec prototypes. Aside from right-hand-drive and a 1.5-liter engine in lieu of the U.S. model's 2.0-liter mill, both cars share identical interiors, underpinnings, and feature content. With that out of the way, here's our early impressions of Mazda's forthcoming flagship roadster

Tighter packager, lighter weight

The prevailing development strategy behind the fourth-generation MX-5 came down to trimming excess mass. More extensive use of aluminum combined with tidier exterior dimensions and a wheelbase shorter by just over a half-inch amount to a near-220 lb. decrease in weight over the outgoing car. Combine that with a lower center of gravity and plunging hoodline, and it wouldn't be a stretch to say the MX-5 provides a driving experience akin to an open-wheel racer. Plus, unlike the first-generation NA model, this bite-sized package doesn't yield a claustrophobia-inducing cabin - more on that later

On the dynamics front, Mazda engineers left no stone unturned. Body lean has been reduced drastically without compromising overall ride quality. The responsiveness and feedback of the brakes could paint a Porsche Boxster green with envy. But the main attraction is unquestionably the new 6-speed manual transmission, whose short-yet-precise throws, predictable clutch, and natural ergonomics all but justify the price of admission. If our tester's 1.5-liter 4-cylinder is any indication of what U.S. customers can expect from the new 2.0-liter engine, we're in for a treat. Because where Miatas of yore lacked usable low-end torque and fell flat on top, Mazda's new Skyactiv-G engines produce 90 percent of maximum torque at 2,000 rpm and continue to develop power in a smooth, linear fashion until 7,500 rpm. The only gripe we have with regards to dynamics is the new electromechanical steering. Although we are proponents of electric-assisted steering, Mazda has some work to do in the area of progressive weighting. As the steering angle increased effort remained virtually the same (conventional steering systems require more steering effort as wheel friction rises). On the bright side, Mazda engineers hinted at the fact that production cars would undergo a steering software update to help remedy the issue

Oxymoron no more: A sophisticated Miata

From standard LED headlights and taillights to a cabin laden with French stitching and high-quality materials, the 2016 MX-5 Miata is heads and shoulders above its predecessors when it comes to refinement. Everything placed in front of the driver is laid out symmetrically, including the pedal arrangement. And while the steering wheel doesn't offer a telescoping function, the driving position remains surprisingly neutral, even for taller drivers. The new Miata features just under a half-inch of additional headroom and greater adjustability for the driver's seat, including an adjustable seat bottom

Opening and closing the soft-top is a now an in-car, one-hand operation thanks to a lighter, more rigid structure. Wind control during open-top driving has been addressed as well. By moving the windshield rearward and slimming-down the quarter windows, air is channeled into the cabin through the side of the vehicle rather than over the top and into your face. Lastly - and for the first time ever - the MX-5 Miata can be equipped with an in-car navigation/infotainment system featuring a 7-inch touch-or-remote-controlled display

Break down the weight savings, sharper handling, and superior refinement, and what you're left with is a sportscar destined to reignite the world's love of driving. If that was indeed Mazda's prime objective in developing the fourth-generation MX-5, we say, Mission accomplished

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Lexus RX First Review: Striking on the outside, familiar within 2016

The all-new 2016 Lexus RX is radically different and reassuringly familiar. The difference hinges on whether you're inside or outside of this 5-passenger luxury SUV

One look at the exterior and it's easy to see that the latest RX has changed much compared to the outgoing model. Lexus' highly lauded sport utility vehicle enters its 4th generation with a dramatically restyled skin. Most notable are its giant spindle grille that appears big enough to swallow a Yaris and the SUV's "floating roof" design resulting from the flowing shape of its blacked-out C-pillars behind the rear passenger windows. It's a bold move for Lexus, and a potential gamble considering the RX is the brand's best-selling vehicle

Some will appreciate the edgy looks. Others won't. That's the risk an automaker takes with such a departure, but Lexus clearly feels the bet is worth it

Familiar ride and powertrains

Under the RX's slightly larger exterior, changes are evolutionary rather than revolutionary. And that's not a bad thing. Considering the surprise some may have with the exterior, the rest of the vehicle's familiarity could provide just the comfort they need, literally and figuratively

When the 2016 Lexus RX luxury crossover SUV arrives at dealerships in November, it will again come in two forms: The RX 350 and RX 450h. The 2016 Lexus RX 350 uses the familiar 3.5-liter V6, which now makes an additional 25 horsepower for a total of 295. The RX 450h hybrid SUV comes with a reengineered 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine mated to a pair of electric motors and a nickel metal hydride battery pack. The hybrid Lexus RX makes a total of 308 horsepower, 13 more than the outgoing model. Both the gasoline and gas-electric hybrid versions of the RX come standard with front-wheel drive and are available with all-wheel drive for better traction. Additionally, both the RX 350 and RX 450h are available as F Sport models, which come with AWD standard and enhanced performance

We had the chance to preview a trio of 2016 Lexus RX models in the outskirts of Portland, Oregon. Here are our first-drive impressions of each -- and our recommendation of which is right for you

Lexus RX 350

If you're already a fan of the RX, here's your new baby. Yes, it's quite different on the outside and refreshingly restyled within, but it drives like the way the RX long has. That is to say, comfort is the priority. It wafts along highways with the quiet determination of an artisan at work. Power flows seamlessly and with surprising depth from the retuned engine, and the new 8-speed automatic transmission is so good it, too, already feels familiar

For those instances in which you might favor a crisper ride, there is a "sport" drive mode that is activated with a twist of a dial. Doing so livens throttle response and adds artificial weight to the electronic power steering system. We found it beneficial on the curvy roads in the hills surrounding Portland. Sport mode won't transform the Lexus RX into a BMW X5, but it's nice to have the option of injecting the inherently soft RX with more edge

Lexus RX 350 F Sport

F Sport models come with all-wheel drive, adaptive variable suspension, paddle shifters, 20-inch wheels and the Sport S+ setting that further separates the Lexus RX F Sport models from their standard brethren. We found this RX the most rewarding to drive briskly. And aside from a higher level of perceived road noise -- quite possibly from the larger tires -- we didn't feel like it sacrifices Lexus plush ride manners

When you're done having fun in the corners, simply switch it back to regular drive mode. Unlike BMW M and Mercedes-Benz AMG models, the F Sport edition of the RX brings no extra power. Of course, not everyone cares about that. If you dig the RX and its essence of plushness and practicality but want the ability to grant it with a firmer ride, more aggressive performance and the coveted Sport S+ mode that brings it all together, this is the one for you

Lexus RX 450h Hybrid

Let's make one thing clear: the 2016 Lexus RX 450h is no slouch. While many people still equate "hybrid" with "slow," the Lexus RX 450h is actually just as quick as its gasoline-only sibling. The Lexus RX hybrid goes 0-60 mph in 7.7 seconds for front-wheel drive models and does it in 7.9 when equipped with all-wheel drive--the same marks as the 2016 Lexus RX 350. Those times aren't blazing, but they certainly aren't slow. You'll get up to speed on that freeway on-ramp just fine. The rest of the RX hybrid's manners are equally impressive

As we've come to expect of Toyota's and Lexus' hybrids, the transitions between gas and electric power are smooth, and the electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT) feels refined. When you need to get on the throttle, the RX 450h is eager to get down to business--even more so in the new F Sport RX 450h model. But the big appeal is fuel economy. Lexus estimates it will earn ratings of 31 mpg city/30 highway for front-drive models and 30/28 mpg for all-wheel-drive. That compares with the RX 350's figures of 20/28 mpg for FWD and 19/26 mpg for AWD. If you want an RX with the highest fuel economy, the 450h delivers it without sacrificing power, acceleration or cargo space

How much will the new Lexus RX cost

The revamped, 4th generation Lexus RX arrives in November. Lexus is keeping the lid on exact pricing until closer to launch, but has told us it will start "very much under $45,000

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Lincoln MKX crossover has global aspirations 2016

Looking to extend the global reach of Ford's luxury division, the all-new 2016 Lincoln MKX made its world debut in Detroit. While a number of product details have yet to be finalized, we now have a far better idea of what to expect when the vehicle launches here next fall prior to turning up in China, Canada, the Middle East, Mexico and South Korea. Beyond its striking appearance, the makeover raises the performance, handling and refinement of this this upscale mid-size crossover. The 2016 MKX also places greater emphasis on personal luxury touches, introducing new options like 22-way power seats with massage function, the first-ever automotive application of a premium Revel sound system and four different variations of the division's exclusive Black Label trim configurations

Retaining most of the exterior design cues found on the MKX Concept presented last spring in Beijing, this new Lincoln is unquestionably the best-looking vehicle to ever wear an MKX badge. Clean, elegant lines and well-integrated details impart a far stronger sense of presence which is further reinforced by chiseled fascia contours. The production model also sports best take yet on the Lincoln's signature split-wing grille and dramatic lighting treatments - which for the first time include available full LED headlamps that feature speed-sensitive adaptive beam patterns

Upgraded interior

The roomy cabin in the 2016 Lincoln MKX benefits from the redesign, matching generous space for five and their cargo with a richer, better-finished and far-better-isolated character. Like its compact MKC cousin, the MKX also features a push-button gear selector that helps create a more open overall feel. An available embedded modem ensures constant connectivity while the downloadable MyLincoln Mobile app that interacts with the owner's smartphone to perform a variety of functions from locking/unlocking to locating the vehicle in a crowded parking lot and remote starting

Aimed at demanding audiophiles, a new 19-speaker/20-channel Revel Ultima sound system is standard issue on top-line MKX Black Label models and optional on the Reserve. Those willing to settle for a merely brilliant alternative can step up to a 13-speaker Revel system on the MKX Select and Reserve trims. New comfort, convenience and safety standards on this versatile Lincoln include pre-collision assist that can automatically apply the brakes when it senses a potential impact and Auto Hold that keeps the MKX from creeping ahead in stopped traffic. The expanded option roster now boasts a 360-degreee camera and enhanced park assist, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping system, a blind spot information system, cross-traffic alert and a height-adjustable hands-free power liftgate

High performance EcoBoost power

The 2016 Lincoln MKX is based a new Ford global platform that also underpins the new 2015 Ford Edge and Ford Fusion. In addition to a notably stronger core structure, the new MKX features a sophisticated suspension design that includes standard energy-saving electric power steering and offers multi-mode (Normal/Sport/Comfort) Lincoln Drive Control as well as adaptive steering as options. Available in front-drive or with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, the 2016 MKX offers the choice of two engines. The standard powerplant is the familiar 3.7-liter naturally aspirated Ti-VCT V6 that projected to make 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, but the hottest underhood offering will be the new 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 that's slated to crank out 330+ ponies and over 370 lb-ft of peak torque - figures that should make the new MKX a good deal more attractive to enthusiasts. Both engines will be backed by a 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. We should learn more about the 2016 Lincoln MKX's pricing, packaging and final EPA number in the coming months

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