This Is The Refreshed Mercedes-Benz GLE

Mercedes-Benz has given the GLE and the GLE Coupe a midlife makeover. And yes, that’s not very evident when you first lay eyes on either of them. Let’s just say that the cosmetic updates, inside and out, are subtle, which we’ll get to in a bit. Additionally, the model receives technology and equipment-level upgrades, and a range of electrified powertrains throughout the portfolio. The plug-in hybrids can now travel further on electric power alone, while the AMG versions are torquier.

Let’s round up the cosmetic changes first. The headlamps and taillamps receive reprofiling, making them look sharper than before even though they have the same basic shape. Also, the GLE range has a new front bumper along with revised air inlets. As for the Coupe variants, all now come with the AMG Line exterior. That includes the diamond grille, chrome trim element on the front apron, AMG side sill panels, wheel arch cladding in the vehicle colour and the diffuser-look insert at the rear.

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Of course, there are new wheel designs and colour options for the exterior. Indoors, the refreshed GLE packs a new steering wheel with sensor surfaces on the horizontal spokes. The centre and side air vents are now galvanised in real metal, a trait taken from the Mercedes-Maybach GLS. Besides that, the updated GLE comes with an updated MBUX system, an upgraded Parking Package (optional), a Trailer Route Planner, new interior colour options and an enhanced Burmester sound system.

All engine options of the GLE SUV and the GLE Coupe now pack some sort of electrification. Most come with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, while the plug-in hybrids feature more comprehensive updates. In 450 form, the GLE’s turbocharged 3.0-litre in-line-six offers 381hp/500Nm, whereas those figures for the 300d (2.0-litre) and the 450d (3.0-litre) are 269hp/550Nm and 367hp/750Nm, respectively. Courtesy of the added oomph over the previous versions, the revised GLE can get to 100kmph slightly quicker.

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There are two plug-in hybrid variants, with both using a 2.0-litre mill along with an electric motor. The 400e offers a total system output of 375hp/600Nm, whereas the 350de derivative delivers 329hp/750Nm. Courtesy of the fourth-gen hybrid system, which includes a 31.2kWh battery, the PHEVs can travel between 89km and 105km on electric power alone.

As far as the AMG variants – the 53 and the 63 S – are concerned, they too feature cosmetic changes on the outside, including new wheels and an even more aggressive front end. Power figures remain the same as before but the 53 version does offer more torque than before, thanks to a larger turbo and revisions in software programming. The go-fast derivatives also get more features as standard, with the list roping in Air Balance Package, Multibeam LED headlamps (53), MBUX Augmented Reality (53) and a head-up display, among others.

Mercedes-Benz will launch the refreshed GLE range in Europe in July 2023. As for the pricing, that hasn’t surfaced yet. 

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