The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class will get a new look and a plug-in hybrid version.
Mercedes-Benz has announced a mid-cycle update to the GLE-Class to keep the popular mid-size luxury SUV looking and feeling fresh.
The update is a mild mid-cycle update, although electrification has been added to the entire lineup, along with the return of a plug-in hybrid grade.
The current GLE-Class will arrive in 2019 as a 2020 model, and this updated version should reach dealers later this year as a 2024 model.
With a new front mask and new light interiors on both ends, the AMG Line exterior design package, which is standard on the GLE 580 grade, features a unique grille pattern with a small Mercedes star logo forming a mesh pattern. The AMG Line pack also adds body color to the wheel arch cladding and a diffuser-like design treatment to the rear fascia. Rounding out the exterior design details are two new wheel patterns.
Internal changes are even harder to spot. The most significant change is the new steering wheel, which features touch sensors on the horizontal spokes. This can be used to control a number of vehicle functions, including the infotainment system (this time the latest version of MBUX, a proprietary Mercedes design). There are two 12.3-inch screens that serve as hubs for the instrument cluster and infotainment, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now available wirelessly.
Other major changes include Dolby Atmos with Burmester premium audio system, a more intuitive voice activation system, and new chrome detailing on some air vents.
Mercedes also introduced several interesting technologies aimed at assisting the driver when driving off-road or towing a trailer. For off-road driving, the infotainment system now displays key indicators such as slope, roll angle, steering angle, and compass when the vehicle is set to off-road mode. SUVs equipped with the available surround-view camera system also have the addition of a so-called transparent hood, which shows the area under the engine bay to the infotainment system and helps traverse tricky terrain.
When towing a trailer, there is a trailer route planner for navigation that calculates the best route for a defined trailer. It takes into account factors such as route width, height, and weight restrictions.
In the powertrain department, the 2024 GLE-Class lineup begins with the GLE 350, which is powered by a 255 hp 2.0-liter turbo four combined with a mild hybrid system capable of increasing power by 20 hp. The more advanced GLE 450 replaces the 2.0-liter engine with a 3.0-liter turbo 6 with 375 hp. This grade also features a mild hybrid system that boosts power by 20 hp, while the GLE 580, at the top of the regular GLE-class lineup, is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine that delivers 510 hp on its own.
New to the lineup is the GLE 400 e, a plug-in hybrid grade that combines a 2.0-liter turbo four with a single electric motor for a total of 381 hp. 23.3 kwh battery allows for electric driving, but Mercedes The range estimate for the electric mode has not been disclosed.
Buyers seeking ultimate performance can opt for one of the AMG grades: the GLE 53 gets a 3.0-liter turbo six with 429 hp, while the GLE 63 S gets a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 with 603 hp. In both cases, a mild hybrid system will be installed, which will increase power by 21 hp.
AMG will also feature its own design tweaks as well as more standard equipment in the 2024 update. According to Mercedes, software adjustments made to electronic systems such as stability control, limited-slip differential, all-wheel drive system, and dampers will also result in sportier driving characteristics.
Pricing information for the 2024 GLE-Class lineup will be announced closer to market launch later this year.
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