It’s easy to become a little confused over Mercedes models, and a good example is the differences between the two GLE 450s.

The SUV version of the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 has a ‘d’ suffix, and makes 270kW and 750Nm. A diesel then. Meantime, the Coupe version of the GLE 450 Coupe has no suffix after the 450 and the 280kW and 500Nm output strongly suggest petrol motivation.

The former is marginally more expensive, as diesels tend to be. Our GLE has gone up in price since launch of the facelift, and is now $174,500.

The GLE 450 is actually the entry point for the Coupe range, whereas you can buy a smaller diesel (198kW/550Nm) as an entry point to the SUV range.

And in both you can go larger too, in the form of the GLE 53 and Mercedes-Benz GLE 63 S. Regardless of body style, these AMG variants have the same petrol powertrains and cost $209k-$265k, the Coupes being slightly more expensive in both cases.

1974 AMC Javelin 401
The AMC Javelin may be the forgotten one of the pony car era but that makes it a bit special. It is a rare sight on our roads and this 1974 example is one of the last AMC made. In the American ‘pony car’ wars of the late 60s and
MotorsportMosmox

And for 2024, each of these is updated. The changes mainly relate to the design, the infotainment system, drive systems and equipment.

Externally, the front and rear styling of both GLE SUV and Coupe are refreshed for a more modern look.

The outline still reminds of an Ankylosaur to me – remember those kids? – with the armour of the running boards, but my vision ain’t what it used to be. At the rear the tailpipes are faux, as is the fashion.

Inside, the multimedia system and multifunction steering wheel are upgraded to the latest generation of MBUX. And it clearly must work, the latter.

Because it is one of the few vehicles we’ve driven up north where the favourite radio stations don’t fade away once you pass over the Dome Valley summit.

Sure, there are a few times when the volume drops as the signal diminishes but overall you can listen to your favourite Auckland-based stations 100km north of there quite happily.