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 revised engine options, a tech-laden cabin and a redesigned exterior.
Mercedes-Benz GLE facelift engine and powertrain
Engine lineup updated with a new inline-six plug-in hybrid and changes across trims
As mentioned earlier, with the GLE facelift, Mercedes-Benz has updated the engine lineup with mechanical refinements, while select versions also receive higher power and torque outputs. The range-topping 580 trim continues with the 4-litre twin-turbo V8, but output is now up to 537hp (20hp more) and 750Nm (20Nm more). “The V8 responds more quickly, operates more efficiently, and delivers power more smoothly than before,” states the manufacturer in the official press release.
The GLE 450 uses a 3-litre inline-six engine that continues to make 381hp, but torque increases 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 is in the plug-in hybrid version of the engine, the GLE 450e, which replaces the previous model’s four-cylinder setup with a new inline-six configuration. It produces 75hp more than before and “delivers even smoother gear changes and an even more refined driving experience.” It has a claimed all-electric range of 105km (WLTP).
Outputs of the diesel-powered GLE 350d and GLE 450d remain unchanged. Still, 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.
All engines are paired with a 9-speed torque converter automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels.
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 plug-in hybrid powertrain options. The mild-hybrid AMG GLE 53 uses a 3-litre inline-six turbo-petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid assist, producing 449hp and 600Nm, or 640Nm with overboost for 10 seconds. This is 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, resulting in "an even sportier power curve in the upper rev range."
A plug-in hybrid version of the same engine pairs the six-cylinder unit with a 184hp and 480Nm electric motor that “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 facelift: Other mechanical changes
Introduces mechanical upgrades to improve ride comfort and handling
The GLE now gets updated air suspension with 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 AMG GLE 53 features a recalibrated air suspension system 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 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 with the use of powerful chips and AI. This operating system debuted recently in India with the Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric.
Mercedes-Benz has also reintroduced the ‘rocker-and-roller’ buttons on the steering wheel that “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.
In terms of features, the GLE is equipped with a panoramic sunroof as standard, automatic climate control with an air purifier, a wireless phone charger and powered front seats. A 15-speaker Burmester 3D sound system, a heads-up display and powered second row seats are offered as optional accessories. It also gets the latest driver assistance hardware, which adds a more powerful processor, along with an expanded sensor suite that includes up to ten cameras, five radar sensors, and 12 ultrasonic sensors to enhance safety and driver support.
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