Mercedes gets creative with latest limited edition SUVs

Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupé OrangeArt Editions (Daimler AG)

The new OrangeArt edition GLE Coupé brings both a splash of colour and individuality to the premium SUV sector.

And just how different the mid-sized high-sided coupé will be is up to the individual buyer. Mercedes is offering the car with a choice of four engines, ranging from a sensible 3-liter V6 turbodiesel right through to the 4.6-litre 455hp V8.

As for the exterior, while all versions will come with a suitably striking bright orange contrast line around the front apron and around the outer edge of each alloy wheel, how much that OrangeArt detail contrasts is also a matter of personal preference. Owners will be able to pick from a choice of six exterior paint finishes -- black, polar white, obsidian black, iridium silver, selenite grey or designo diamond white bright.

The orange contrasts are also present inside the car. The black nappa leather seats are finished with orange piping, as are the floor mats. While to give the car a sportier feel -- even if specified with a diesel engine -- the OrangeArt Edition gets a three-spoke sports steering wheel wrapped in black nappa leather and the pedals are of the brushed stainless steel variety with rubber studding for gripping better to the underside of your foot when jumping from brake to accelerator and back again. The finishing touch is an aluminum treatment on the dahsboard fascia and doors where one would usually find a wooden veneer.

Those taken with the OrangeArt Edition will be able to order the car with everything, or pick just the external or internal elements of the model. The paint finish, which also includes unique five-spoke alloy wheels, will cost an extra €4165 (roughly US$5000) while the interior upgrades add a further €2618 (US$3000) to the list price.