The updated 2024 GLE was unveiled by Mercedes today. New off-road technologies, a more intuitive MBUX system, and a 2018 GLE 400e 4Matic plug-in hybrid trim level are all included in the new GLE. The electrification of the entire GLE line with a new plug-in hybrid variant is the most obvious difference.
With the addition of some chrome squares, the grille's horizontal bar now seems split from the outside. While the headlights are the same size and shape as the previous model, there are new elements within. The corner intakes get a significant chrome accent. The ambient lighting now has the option to project the Mercedes-Benz pattern, and Mercedes' taillights now have two horizontal blocks as well. Twilight Blue and Alpine Grey paint options are now available for the GLE, which is also available with new sets of 19- and 20-inch wheels.
The central touchscreen and digital instrument displays may both be controlled via the redesigned steering wheel, which features touch sensors on its spokes. The GLE's screens are still the same size (12.3 inches), but the touchscreen can handle more comfort and vehicle settings. Additionally, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now accessible, and Mercedes' voice assistant is more useful than ever and will continue to be so owing to over-the-air updates. MBUX, now in its second iteration, is more sophisticated than ever.
According to Mercedes, a number of interior characteristics were taken from the Maybach GLS and S-Class. A redesigned steering wheel with sensor surfaces that control the driver and central displays is one of them.
The 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine, and permanently excited electric motor in the new plug-in hybrid GLE 400e combine to produce 381 horsepower and 649 Nm of torque in the United States. The 23.3 kWh battery's all-electric range is yet unknown, but Mercedes will offer a 60 kW DC charger as an option to make charging as quick as feasible.
The GLE 350 de 4MATIC will be driven by a 2.0-liter diesel engine that, when combined with its electric motor, produces 194 hp for the driver, while the GLE 400e will produce 248 hp in Europe. The automaker's 48-volt mild hybrid system will provide a modest bit of electrification to each of the GLE's powertrains.
The 255 horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine found in the GLE 350, the 375 horsepower 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine found in the GLE 450, and the 510 horsepower 4.0-liter V8 engine found in the GLE 580 will all be equipped with Mercedes' mild-hybrid technology in the United States.
There will also be an "Off-Road Engineering Package" available for the GLE 580 4MATIC. The additional under-body protection gives the SUV 1.2 inches more ground clearance when combined with the optional air suspension.
Additionally, Mercedes has updated the GLE's Trailer Route Planner. Trailer Maneuvering Assist now uses a camera-based system to help you park your trailer once you get there and automatically controls the driving.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class 2024 will be available later this year. Pricing information will be released closer to the on-sale date.