The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE Gains Plug-In Hybrid

New updates to the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE bring the expected cosmetic changes, but under the skin there are larger changes. A new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant joins the lineup for this midsize luxury SUV, which makes the entire GLE range electrified in one way or another. Other substantive improvements make life a little easier for owners, including improved trailering convenience features and more torque courtesy of a revised turbo for the quickest AMG versions.

The freshly sculpted GLE gets a revised grille with two new horizontal chrome inserts, along with a new horizontal chrome accent on the side air intakes. The daytime running lights have been tweaked to resemble a “flare” with two converging points in each light, and the taillights have also been redesigned into two horizontal blocks. The brush guard has been tweaked, two new alloy wheels in 19- and 20-inch sizes have been introduced, and there are two new paint shades: Twilight Blue Metallic and Manufaktur Alpine Grey.

The AMG Line exterior, which makes the GLE look more AMG without being a true AMG model, is standard on the 580 4Matic and optional on the other GLE trims. It comes with a diamond grille, an AMG-designed front clip, AMG side sills, wheel arches in body color, and a rear AMG diffuser. The AMG Line also comes with a 21-inch wheel design.

Inside, the 2024 GLE cops some details from the GLS and S-Class models, with a new steering wheel featuring new horizontal spokes with touch sensor surfaces, which control both the driver and central displays now featuring the second-generation of Mercedes’ MBUX user-interface system with over-the-air updates. The air vents get the same chrome finish from the GLS, and there are new beige over black and brown over black interior colorways to be optioned. The GLE also now gets a similar configurable interior lighting setup as that found on the S-Class.

The GLE also improves its trailering abilities, with a trailer route planner that helps you navigate a set course based on the type of trailer you are towing, as well as improved Trailer Maneuvering Assist, and Trailer Steering Assist.

Plug-In Hybrid

Along with the carry-over 48-volt mild hybrid GLE trims, the 2024 model year adds a new plug-in model dubbed the 400e 4Matic. This now means that the entire GLE range is electrified. The new 400e 4Matic is good for 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. It’s unclear how many miles of EV-only range it has as of yet. Mercedes says it’ll come with an 11 kW AC on-board charger but a 60 kW DC charger is available.

Author: Justin Westbrook
Source: MotorTrend.com