Mercedes-Benz presented the renewed GLE and GLE Coupe 2024 and now they’ll be hybrid-only, with new tech to make it more off-road capable, a smarter MBUX system, and a new GLE 400e 4Matic plug-in hybrid trim level.
The renewed Mercedes-Benz GLE are now hybrids
The new plug-in hybrid GLE 400e features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a permanently excited electric motor that together produce 381 Hp (284 kW/386 PS) and 479 lb-ft (649 Nm) of torque in the US. Not yet announced the all-electric range of the 23.3 kWh battery, but Mercedes will offer an optional 60 kW DC charger to make charging as fast as possible.
For its part, in Europe, the GLE 400e will generate 248 Hp (185 kW/252 Hp), while the 4MATIC GLE 350 will be powered by a 2.0-liter diesel engine that, together with its electric motor, delivers 194 Hp (145 kW /197 Hp). All GLE powertrains will contain a small amount of electrification, thanks to the German automaker’s 48-volt mild hybrid system, which in Europe will be added to the 2.0-litre and 3.0-litre diesel engines. These, the GLE 300 d 4MATIC and GLE 450 d 4MATIC, will make 266 hp (198 kW/269 PS) and 362 hp (270 kW/367 PS), respectively.
Meanwhile, in the US, the 255-hp (190 kW/259 PS) 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that powers the GLE 350, the 375-hp (280 kW/380 PS) 3.0-liter six-cylinder ) that does the same in the GLE 450, and the 510 hp (380 kW/517 PS) 4.0-liter V8 engine that powers the GLE 580 will also feature Mercedes’ mild-hybrid technology.
The latest model, the GLE 580 4MATIC, will also be offered with a “off-road engineering package«. It adds underbody protection that, in combination with the available air suspension, adds another 1.2 inches of ground clearance for the SUV.
Interior and infotainment
will also add a off-road mode on the infotainment system, which provides the driver with information regarding their roll angle, the slope they are on, and their cardinal direction. The system also works with the 360-degree cameras by providing a “see through hood” view, to give the driver a better view of the terrain around them.
In addition, Mercedes has added a new tow route planner to the GLE. It determines suitable routes to drive with a pre-defined trailer based on information about its weight, height, width and more. To help park your trailer once you arrive at your location, Trailer Manuever Assist now works with a camera-based system and regulates the direction of the GLE up to a speed of 3 mph (4.5 km/h).
The system that runs those apps, MBUX, is now smarter and is in its second generation. Although the screens inside the GLE remain the same size (12.3 inches), more vehicle settings and comfort can be controlled via the touchscreen. Wireless Android Auto Y Apple Car Play they are now available too, while Mercedes’ voice assistant is more effective than ever and will remain so thanks to over-the-air updates.
Separately, Mercedes says that a number of interior features were borrowed from the Maybach GLS and S-Class. These include a new steering wheel with driver-operated sensor surfaces and center displays.
A chrome finish on the center and side air vents previously only available on the Maybach GLS are also available, as is the MANUFAKTUR Piano Black Flowing Lines trim material, previously exclusive to the standard GLS. Catalana Beige/Black and Bahia Brown/Black interior color options have been added to the SUV.
Bodywork and market release
On the outside, however, the design has been massaged. For example, Mercedes says the front bumper has been updated and the grille features two horizontal louvers with chrome accents. Additionally, the Mercedes taillights have also been updated to feature two horizontal blocks, while the ambient lighting now comes with the option to project the Mercedes-Benz pattern.
Of note, buyers will be able to choose Twilight Blue and Alpine Gray paint for their GLE, which is also offered with new 19-inch and 20-inch wheelsets. According to Mercedes, the all-new 2024 GLE will begin arriving in US showrooms this year.
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