As has become the new fashion for manufacturers lately, Mercedes released press photos and information about the M-Class facelift to the internet a week before it’s debut at the New York International Autoshow. My guess is that manufacturers are doing this to pre-empt inevitable leaks and disregarded embargoes of their new releases.

This facelift of the current M-Class allows Mercedes to rename their mid-size SUV into the recently announced change in the naming convention. It follows the latest design language that began with the refreshed E-class in 2013. Softer faces adorn most of the line.

Drivetrains have been refreshed. Canada will likely see the GLE 300 diesel that sports the 2.1 liter 4-cylinder engine. Next in the line up will be the GLE 400 with a 3.0 liter twin turbo V6. Unclear is whether the GLE 550 will show up with a TT V8 or if the GLE 550e PHEV will be the top of the line Mercedes. The diesel model will come with the new 9G-Tronic. It will also be available with an offroad package that comes with a 2-speed transfer case with a front to rear lock.

Mercedes-AMG is of course bringing out the GLE63 and the GLE63S that arrive with 550 hp and 577hp respectively. The 5.5 L TT V8 is mated to the 7G-tronic with MCT and the 4Matic comes in a new fixed ratio of 40/60 biased toward the rear. Unique suspension tuning and setting are available on the AMG.

Notably absent is the GLE450 AMG sport. The GLE coupe got the AMG-sport treatment, but it seems soccer moms won’t get the optional tuned 3.0 Liter TT V6.

For the reveal, they brought Cindy Blackman (Carlos Santana’s wife) to play the drums. It was intense.

Check out our live photos live from the New York Auto show.