Mercedes-Benz has revealed the GLE facelift internationally in SUV, coupe and AMG iterations. This is the second facelift of the fourth-generation GLE, which has rendered the nameplate with “around 3,000 new or revised components”, including thorough changes to the powertrain and other mechanicals.
- Standard and AMG models get new plug-in hybrid options
- Updates to air suspension and E-Active Body Control introduced
- Sports a tri-screen setup and tactile buttons on steering wheel
- Gets tri-star lighting elements, illuminated grille, revised tail-lights
Mercedes-Benz GLE, GLE Coupe facelift engine and powertrain
Engine line-up updated with a new inline-6 plug-in hybrid option
Mercedes-Benz has updated the engine options for the GLE facelift with several mechanical refinements. The range-topping 580 version continues with the 4-litre twin-turbo V8, but output is now up to 537hp (20hp more) and 750Nm (20Nm more).
The GLE 450 is powered by a 3-litre inline-6 engine that continues to make 381hp, but torque has increased by 60Nm to 560Nm. Updates include a more powerful electric auxiliary compressor, an improved cylinder head with revised intake and exhaust ports, and a modified intake camshaft to enhance combustion.
The biggest change, though, is in the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version, the GLE 450e, which replaces the previous model’s four-cylinder unit with a new inline-6 one, producing 75hp more than before. The brand claims it delivers “even smoother gear changes and an even more refined driving experience”. The GLE 450e has a claimed all-electric range of 105km (WLTP).
Outputs of the diesel-powered GLE 350d and GLE 450d remain unchanged. However, both now get an electric heating catalyst that helps reduce emissions by bringing the exhaust system up to operating temperature faster. The engine block and cylinder head are made of aluminium to reduce front-axle weight and improve handling. They also feature Formula 1-derived cylinder liners and steel pistons with shaker cooling to improve heat dissipation, reduce friction and increase efficiency.
These engine options are shared across the GLE SUV and coupe versions.
AMG GLE 53 gets a new plug-in hybrid option
The Mercedes-AMG version of the GLE is offered in the 53 trim, with both mild-hybrid and PHEV powertrain options. The mild-hybrid AMG GLE 53 uses a 3-litre inline-6 turbo-petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid assist, producing 449hp and 600Nm (or 640Nm with overboost for 10 seconds) – 14hp and 40Nm more than the pre-facelift model. The mild-hybrid system itself contributes an additional 23hp and 205Nm. The engine gets a new cylinder head with improved intake and exhaust ports, along with a revised intake camshaft, which, the brand says, results in an even sportier power curve in the upper rev range.
The plug-in hybrid pairs the 6-cylinder unit with a 184hp, 480Nm electric motor that, as per Mercedes, “ensures high agility right from the start and eliminates turbo lag”. The combined output of this powertrain is 585hp and 750Nm, enabling a claimed top speed of 250kph and a 0-100kph time of 4.5 seconds, which is 0.2 seconds quicker than before. While the electric-only range has not yet been revealed, the manufacturer claims an all-electric top speed of 140kph for the AMG GLE 53 Hybrid.
Mercedes-Benz GLE, GLE Coupe facelift: Other mechanical changes
Introduces mechanical upgrades to improve ride comfort and handling
The GLE facelift now features a new cloud-based damper control that can detect speed bumps in advance and adjust damping for improved ride comfort. The optional E-Active Body Control system can control each wheel individually to reduce body roll, pitch and lift.
The more powerful GLE 53’s air suspension system, too, has been recalibrated for improved balance between ride comfort and handling. An optional AMG Active Ride Control system is also being offered with electromechanical roll stabilisation, which further reduces body roll and enhances steering precision. The ESP system has also been updated to work more closely with the all-wheel-drive system for improved traction and stability.
Mercedes-Benz GLE, GLE Coupe facelift: Interior changes
Cabin updated with three screens and rocker-and-roller steering wheel buttons
Mercedes-Benz has also thoroughly updated the GLE’s cabin with the facelift. For the first time, it gets the MBUX Superscreen, comprising three 12.3-inch screens on the dashboard. It also offers the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), which integrates and controls every aspect of the vehicle using powerful chips and artificial intelligence. This operating system debuted recently in India with the CLA Electric.
The brand has also reintroduced the ‘rocker-and-roller’ buttons on the steering wheel to enhance the tactile, analogue user experience. The AC vents on both sides of the Superscreen are now oval and feature ambient lighting. Comfort seats with leatherette upholstery and moccasin stitching are offered as standard, while sport seats are available with the optional AMG Line pack.
The GLE’s Black, Macchiato Beige, and Bahia Brown interior colour options have been retained, while a new Beech Brown and Black combination has been added. The Mercedes-AMG GLE, meanwhile, is offered with Tartufo Brown, Carmine Red and Yacht Blue interior themes.
Compared to the regular model, the only major difference in the AMG GLE is an AMG-specific flat-bottom steering wheel with two rotary dials featuring LCDs and the same tactile buttons as the standard model.
Features include a panoramic sunroof, climate control, air purifier, a wireless charger and powered front seats, along with updated driver assistance hardware with additional cameras, radar and ultrasonic sensors. Optional features include a Burmester 3D sound system, a head-up display and powered second-row seats.
Mercedes-Benz GLE, GLE Coupe facelift: Exterior changes
Gets plenty of tri-star elements and different tail-lights for SUV and coupe versions
The facelifted GLE retains a silhouette similar to the pre-facelift model but introduces several styling updates. The grille now features multiple tri-star elements, along with an illuminated surround and illuminated Mercedes-Benz logo. The new headlamps have twin LED daytime running lights (DRLs) on each side with matching tri-star signatures, while the front bumper gets large black-finished air intakes for added contrast.
As for the profile, the GLE SUV comes with side steps, which are not offered on the coupe. Both versions are equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels. At the rear, the tail-lights feature tri-star motifs; the SUV adds a connecting black trim element between them, which is absent on the coupe.
In comparison, the AMG GLE features an AMG-specific grille with chrome slats, larger alloy wheels of up to 22 inches, red ‘GLE 53’ lettering and quad exhaust outlets with twin tips on either side, giving it a sportier appearance.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV and GLE Coupe facelifts are expected to arrive in international markets by the end of 2026, with the India launch likely to take place in 2027.
Glenn Noronha
Uday Singh
Viraaj Bhatnagar
