It’s been over a year since we first saw a Mercedes-Benz GLE running around with a bit of camouflage on its nose. Now, the camouflage is removed to reveal the 2024 model, and we wouldn’t blame you if you didn’t notice a noticeable change. However, the bigger news here is the electrification of the entire GLE line with a new plug-in hybrid model. The AMG GLE 53 gets a little torque too.
Let’s discuss the visual changes that are almost exclusive to SUVs and Coupes on the front. The horizontal slats on the grille now have a segmented look thanks to some chrome squares. The corner intakes get large chrome accents, and while the headlights are the same size and shape as the previous model, there are new elements inside. The same goes for the taillights. This is the visual cover of the 2024 Mercedes GLE-Class facelift on the outside.
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Inside is the same story. The new steering wheel has touch sensors at the spokes, allowing the driver to control the center touchscreen and digital instrument display from the steering wheel. Chrome trim on the available air vents and Piano Black Flowing Lines trim – previously exclusive to the Maybach model – are offered here. Mercedes added an Off-Road Engineering Package for the GLE 580 which includes underride protection, and 1.2 inches of extra ground clearance.
There is another technology in the form of an off-road mode that can display gradients, turning angles and steering angles while displaying the front wheel view in the center view. For people who pull trailers, there’s a new Trailer Route Planner that can give you the best way to reach your destination based on the size of the trailer you’re towing. There’s also a new assist for backing up with a trailer.
The big news for this refresh is the new plug-in hybrid trim level. The GLE 400e 4Matic pairs a 134 horsepower electric motor with the familiar 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing a combined output of 381 hp and 479 pound-feet of torque. Mercedes says the PHEV can go 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds, and while it can run on electricity alone thanks to a 23.3 kWh battery, official range estimates aren’t yet available. With other GLE-Class trim levels featuring a 48-volt mild hybrid system, all new GLE models are electrified.
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In the AMG world, the GLE 53 and 63 S receive the same visual makeover. Horsepower remains the same for both models, but slight revisions to the GLE 53 programming and the larger turbocharger bump torque to 413 pound-feet. As a refresher, the AMG GLE 53 uses a 3.0 liter I6 engine with 429 hp. Mercedes says the increased torque brings the 0-60 time down to 4.9 seconds. The AMG GLE 63 S still enjoys a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 that produces 603 hp.
