2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE Facelift Unveiled Globally Ahead of India Launch

Mercedes-Benz has taken the wraps off the updated 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV range ahead of its arrival in the Australian showrooms this August. The premium carmaker has finally revealed the model on a global platform with several feature upgrades and cosmetic modifications. The GLE line's electrification, with the introduction of a new plug-in hybrid vehicle, is the latest update. The carmaker has electrified the engine lineup for the GLE and GLE Coupe. Mechanically, the GLE 450 petrol produces 375bhp, and the new 300d and 450d diesel mild hybrids models generate 266bhp and 361bhp, respectively. All versions come standard with 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Also, a minor increase in torque has been made for the AMG GLE 53. Outside, the model now sports a new front bumper, modified LED headlight graphics, brand-new wheel designs, and updated tail-lamp graphics.

The plug-in hybrids -  the GLE 400 e and the 350 de diesel, both have increased ranges on electricity alone. The GLE 400 e boasts a remarkable WLTP electric range of up to 105km and a combined output of 276bhp. The 350 de diesel plug-in offers a total output of 241bhp at a higher torque, 750Nm as opposed to 600Nm in the 400 e, and a similar potential for electric range.

Inside, the dual-screen layout and MBUX user interface will be retained in the cabin from the previous model. Mercedes' most recent steering wheel design can be seen inside, with touch controls that make it possible to access features on the central screen. There is more chrome on the air vents, and new options for the trim colour are now available. 

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In the AMG Line, the GLE 53 and GLE 63 S have similar visual changes, including the revised side sills, a diamond-themed grille insert, body-colored wheel-arch cladding, and subtle tweaks to the front bumper. Mechanically speaking, the GLE 53 with its turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine puts out 429bhp claiming a 21.4bhp potential boost from its electric starter generator system. The GLE 63 S, on the other hand, generates 603bhp via a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine with a similar extra boost potential. The redesigned GLE will be on sale in Europe later this year, but the launch time, cost, and specs for Australia have not yet been released by the company. Further, there are no updates for its launch in India as of yet. We expect it to hit Indian roads sometime soon after its launch in Europe. 

The previous-gen GLE followed the flagship GLS for the design. Features-wise, the previous-gen model boasts a range of goodies, including hands-free parking, a motorised tailgate, two 12.3-inch screens for instrumentation and infotainment, four-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The six-cylinder models come with an air suspension, a 360-degree camera, and a six-way electrically adjustable rear seat. Additionally, gesture control for the infotainment system is available on the 400d and 450 variants. In terms of market competition, the older model lock horns with the Audi Q7 and the BMW X5. 

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Meanwhile, in other news, we informed you that Mercedes-Benz India will be unveiling ten new models in 2023. A new GLC SUV will reportedly be available in India by the end of this year. The current-generation GLC SUV has discontinued a few months ago and thus is unavailable in India. The upcoming GLC will come with significant improvements over the current version, like the revised front fascia, a larger 11.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and more.