Mercedes-Benz has introduced a mid-cycle update for the GLE class to make the popular mid-size luxury SUV look and feel fresh.
Updates are mild, even for a mid-cycle update, although electrification is added across the range alongside the return of a plug-in hybrid class.
The current GLE class hit the market in 2019 as a 2020 model and we’ll see this updated version hit dealerships later this year as a 2024 model.
There’s new front fascia and new internals for the lights at both ends, and the available AMG Line exterior design package, standard on the GLE 580-class, features a unique grille pattern with tiny Mercedes star logos forming the mesh pattern. The AMG Line package also gives the wheel arch liner body color and a diffuser-like design treatment for the rear apron. Two new wheel designs round off the design details of the exterior.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
The changes inside are even harder to see. The most significant change is the new steering wheel with touch-sensitive surfaces on the horizontal spokes. These can be used to control a range of vehicle functions, including the infotainment system, which in this case is the latest version of Mercedes’ proprietary MBUX design. There’s still a pair of 12.3-inch screens that serve as the instrument cluster and infotainment hub, and now Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available wirelessly.
Other notable changes include Dolby Atmos for Burmester’s premium audio system, a more intuitive voice activation system and new chrome detailing on some of the air vents – a design cue borrowed from the Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS-Class, which itself will soon be updated.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Mercedes has also introduced some interesting technologies aimed at helping the driver when driving off-road or when towing a trailer. When you put the vehicle into off-road mode for off-road use, the infotainment system now displays important metrics such as pitch, roll angle, steering angle and a compass. And SUVs equipped with the available surround-view camera also get the so-called transparent hood, where the area under the engine compartment can be displayed in the infotainment system to make traversing difficult terrain easier.
For towing a trailer, there is a Trailer Route Planner for navigation, which calculates the best route for defined trailers. Factors such as the width and height of the route and weight restrictions are taken into account.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
In the powertrain department, the 2024 GLE-Class lineup starts with the GLE 350, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4 that produces 255 hp and is mated to a mild hybrid system that delivers a boost of 20 hp can add. Next up is the GLE 450, which swaps out the 2.0-liter engine for a 3.0-liter, 375-hp turbocharged 6. This class also features the mild hybrid system which adds a 20hp boost. At the top of the regular GLE class lineup is the GLE 580 with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that develops 510 hp alone and gets a 21 hp boost from a mild hybrid system.
New to the range is the GLE 400 e, a plug-in hybrid that combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4 with a single electric motor for a combined 381 hp. A 23.3 kWh battery makes electric driving possible, although Mercedes hasn’t said what the estimated range is in electric mode.
2024 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 63 S Coupe
2024 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 63 S Coupe
2024 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 63 S Coupe
Buyers looking for ultimate performance can opt for one of the AMG varieties. These include the GLE 53 and GLE 63 S. The GLE 53 has a 3.0-liter Turbo 6 that produces 429 hp and the GLE 63 S has a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 603 hp performs. In both cases there is a mild hybrid system that adds a boost of 21 hp.
The AMGs also come with their own unique design enhancements with the 2024 update, as well as expanded standard equipment. Mercedes said software tweaks to electronic systems like stability control, limited-slip differential, all-wheel drive and dampers also result in sportier driving characteristics.
Pricing information for the 2024 GLE Class lineup will be announced closer to launch later this year.
