Mercedes-Benz GLE L for China debuts with 3,115-mm wheelbase and Momenta R7 self-driving

Mercedes-Benz has announced the upcoming debut of a long-wheelbase version of its GLE SUV, developed specifically for the Chinese market. The model will be unveiled at the Chengdu auto show, scheduled to run from August 21 to 30, 2026, and is positioned as a large luxury SUV with advanced intelligent driving capabilities.

The GLE L features a redesigned exterior and measures 5,051 mm in length, 2,018 mm in width and 1,784 mm in height, with a wheelbase extended to 3,115 mm. Inside, the vehicle is equipped with a smart digital cockpit that uses artificial intelligence to assist the driver both in urban traffic and on long-distance trips.

The most notable feature of the new GLE L is the Momenta R7 autonomous driving system. Developed by Chinese company Momenta and introduced in spring 2026, the system relies on reinforcement learning and a dedicated Momenta X7 chip. It enables the vehicle to predict road situations and make driving decisions at a level comparable to Tesla's FSD. Mercedes-Benz describes this as one of the first such technologies to be fitted to a luxury car with a gasoline engine. The system is designed to gain additional intelligent driving capabilities through future over-the-air software updates.

For the Chinese market, Mercedes-Benz will offer two versions of the long-wheelbase GLE. The GLE 350 L is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged M254 engine producing 190 kW (258 hp), while the GLE 450 L gets a 3.0-liter M256 unit with 280 kW (381 hp). Production of the extended model will be handled by Beijing Benz, the company's joint venture in China.