Mercedes-Benz GLE. 2nd generation, 2023 restyling
The family of Mercedes-Benz GLE SUVs has been modernized. The scheduled restyling, officially presented in early February 2023, has touched all the modifications of the second generation: the classic GLE, the fashionable GLE Coupe, hybrids, the AMG GLE sports version and even the top-end AMG GLE 63 S. The restyling has brought some minor exterior design changes, a new MBUX media system, a wider list of equipment, upgraded engines, and a 48-volt starter generator for each engine. From now on, all GLEs are mild or plug-in hybrids. In general, this is the rare case when a restyling has brought more technical updates than design ones… therefore, we honestly admit that we were mistaken when stated: ‘It is unlikely that the powertrains of the restyled GLE and GLS will be changed’…
Prices for the restyled 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE have yet to be announced, but we're sure prices will rise, starting at 58,000 dollars in the US and 76,000 euros in Germany. In 2022, the cost of an SUV prior to restyling in Israel started from 618,719 shekels (entry-level version).
In the USA, where the GLE models are produced, sales of updated SUVs will begin by the end of spring. The vehicles will reach Europe in July. In Israel, the restyled Mercedes-Benz GLE will go on sale no earlier than the first quarter of 2024.
Exterior
The restyled 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE has received new bumpers and a radiator grille, as well as new internal graphics of the rear and front optics. The headlights themselves are the same. At the same time, the daytime running lights have changed their form of twin boomerangs to a complex composition of lines and dotted lines: the basic LED headlights have two such dotted lines, and the optional matrix ones have four. As a result, the front end looks more energetic. In addition, two new colors in gray and blue shades have been added, as well as a new wheel design. Standard wheels are still 19-inch. The AMG Line package is still an option, offering a more aggressive body kit and 21-inch wheels.
Interior
There are no significant visual changes inside, just minor details: new finishing materials and new seat upholstery colors, extended interior contour lights (quite similar to the S-Class), a new steering wheel with touch buttons. Of special note is the upgraded MBUX system (with the same 12.3-inch touch screen): advanced cloud-based voice recognition, wireless connectivity to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and smart home systems. Various functions can now be controlled directly from the multimedia system or by voice command. All this is included in the standard equipment. The usual all-round cameras have formed the so-called ‘transparent hood’, familiar from many other off-road models. Climate control has an automatic air recirculation mode, Energizing Air Control.
The set of electronic assistants has been improved and expanded. This is especially useful for those drivers who use the GLE to tow trailers. The new Trailer Manoeuvring Assist is an autopilot for trailer parking: works at speeds up to 5 km/h, but only on roads with a gradient of up to 15%. The navigator can now create a route specifically for driving with a trailer, eliminating narrow spaces. This assistant can be purchased through the media system.
Powertrains
Overall, the engine range is the same. In Europe, the restyled 2023/2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE will be available in gasoline, diesel and two plug-in versions. All gasoline and diesel models now use a new generation 48-volt starter-alternator that is integrated into the gearbox. Depending on the modification, this electric motor produces 20-22 hp and 200-250 Nm, helping the internal combustion engine in the first seconds of acceleration, which is why the company has proudly announced that the entire range is now electrified. All variants have a 9-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
As before, the base chassis comprises springs. At the same time, you can order Airmatic air suspension or E-Active Body Control active hydropneumatic suspension for an extra charge. Another option is the Off-Road Engineering Package, which provides additional bottom protection and a 30 mm higher ground clearance.
Gasoline versions
- The Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 entry-level version: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with the same 258 hp, but the torque has increased from 370 to 400 Nm.
- The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 version: a 3.0-liter turbocharged in-line engine boosted from 367 hp to 381 hp with a constant torque of 500 Nm.
- The Mercedes-Benz GLE 580 top-end version: a 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine boosted from 489 hp and 700 Nm up to 517 hp and 729 Nm. The American versions have received a speed limiter of 130 miles per hour (209 km/h), while the European versions have the usual 250 km/h.
Diesel versions
- The Mercedes-Benz GLE 300 d: a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine with a reduced output of 269 hp (versus 272 hp) and the same torque of 550 Nm.
- The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 d that has actually replaced the GLE 400 d version, because the boost of the 2.9-liter 6-cylinder diesel engine turned out to be significant, an output of 330 hp and 700 Nm has turned into 367 hp and 750 Nm.
Plug-in hybrids
These versions have also been modernized: the traction electric motor built into the gearbox is the same (136 hp, 440 Nm), while the increase was achieved through 4-cylinder internal combustion engines and the general settings of the hybrid system. The traction battery with a capacity of 31.2 kWh is the same, while the electric driving range varies from 105 to 109 km, depending on the version.
- The diesel-electric Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 de currently offers 333 hp and 750 Nm (versus the previous 320 hp and 700 Nm).
- The gasoline-electric Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 e has changed its index to the GLE 400 e: the power has increased from 333 hp to 381 hp, however, the torque has been reduced from 700 Nm to 600 Nm.
