Years after the polarizing BMW X6 invented a new car segment, Mercedes-Benz GLE comes to market to compete, now, with the second generation X6.

And just like the bimmer, the Merc brings a controversial design that will split opinions. The design follows the lines of a Sports Activity Coupe with a slopping roof and muscular wheel arches. At the front, the strips of chrome and the iconic logo remind us this is a high-end Mercedes while also following the design language of their recent models.

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The rectangular, three large lower air intakes and the headlights fit in with Benz’ latest styling language. The taillights are similar to those on the S-Class, sleek and wrapped around the stocky rear-end.

Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupé (2014)

Inside the cabin the GLE stands out with a high-level of luxury and craftsmanship, combined with a sporty design. Lots of carbon fiber is used inside and a solid-looking steering wheel to steer off the fairly heavy Sports Activity Coupe.

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A large tablet-like display dominates the center stack, featuring a touch-controlled interface and input dial.

The entry point will be the Mercedes-Benz GLE450 AMG. The GLE coupe will come in later under the GLE63 name. In Europe, customers get order two further models: the 329-hp GLE400 and the GLE350d with a 255-hp 3.0-liter diesel V-6.

Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupé (2014)

The GLE63 features a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing about 500 horsepower. The GLE450 is confirmed to pack a twin-turbocharged V-6 rated at 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is standard, and the system features a 40/60 front-to-rear torque distribution. A nine-speed automatic transmission is used.

Mercedes-Benz GLE is rumored to debut next month at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show.