Mercedes-Benz may be about to change the names of some of its most popular SUVs in an effort to harmonize the various nameplates ahead of the rollout of several all-new high-riding models. According to reports out of Germany, the transition will start with the facelifted M-Class due out later this year as a 2015 model.

According to Auto Motor und Sport, the facelifted M-Class will be renamed the GLE-Class, helping to align it with the E-Class in Mercedes’ hierarchy of models. Then, for the 2016 model year, Mercedes will launch its BMW X6 rival, which instead of being an M-Class Coupe, as currently thought, will be labeled the GLE-Class Coupe.

The next-generation GLK-Class will also be affected, with its name said to be changed to GLC-Class to align it with the C-Class. It's expected to be launched late next year, as a 2016 model. If a version with coupe-like styling is launched, expect this model to be called the GLC-Class Coupe.

There’s been no mention if the G-Class and GL-Class models will also be affected. While it’s likely the G-Class will keep its name due to its iconic status, it’s possible the GL-Class gets rebranded a GLS-Class to align it with the S-Class family. At the other end of the spectrum sits the GLA, aligned with Mercedes' A-Class.

Stay tuned for an update.

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