By Kimatni D. Rawlins, Automotive Rhythms
You can say the GLE is the MVP of the Mercedes-Benz product lineup. By size, the GLE sits in the middle of the roster, and by sales, it’s the German automaker’s best seller. The latest 2027 model receives a total overhaul with a wide engine portfolio, advanced technology, state-of-the-art digital lighting, and interior comforts.
Mercedes-Benz (MB) didn’t invent the SUV, but it helped spearhead the luxury utility category. The M-Class arrived in 1997, opened up the premium segment, and has since sold several million units under both badges. The GLE is the current custodian of that lineage, and in 2027 it receives one of Stuttgart’s deeper mid-cycle updates in some time. From an engineering perspective, the GLE looks to its older siblings, the GLS and G-Class, for tech highlights and confidence in performance, while influencing its younger siblings, the GLA, GLB, and GLC. It’s the consummate SUV in the MB family and meets all the criteria—yet the well-appointed sport utility vehicle still trails Lexus and BMW in consumer fandom in this segment.
The numbers tell the story. The GLE has roughly 3,000 new or revised components. Every engine has been reworked, and the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) now runs the entire vehicle. MBUX and its superscreen are standard (12.3” driver display, 12.3” center infotainment display, and 12.3” front passenger display), and a new cloud-based damper control lets the GLE adjust its suspension for uneven roads before it reaches them. Coinciding with the company’s 140th anniversary, I headed to Colorado to experience the bevy of GLE models available to the auto media in attendance. Buyers can choose the GLE SUV or the sportier, sloped-roof GLE Coupe. Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 and 63 versions cover the performance spectrum. M-B offers the GLE SUV as the GLE 350 4MATIC ($68,400), GLE 450 4MATIC ($74,800), GLE 500e 4MATIC ($81,000), and GLE 580 4MATIC ($96,300).
The distinctive GLE Coupe comes in one format: the GLE 450 4MATIC Coupe ($81,200). With its shorter wheelbase, the ride is energetic and engaging. Standard elements include 20” AMG rims, the AMG Styling Pack, the illuminated grille and star, a panoramic sliding sunroof, AMG floor mats and sports pedals, and the AMG Line sports seat package. A few upgrades that set yours apart include illuminated running boards, 21” or 22” AMG wheels, and the Night package. My white GLE 450 4MATIC Coupe with contrasting black features was absolutely stunning.
Please keep in mind Consumer Reports rates the 2025 GLE below average for reliability, while the 2026 GLE improves to about average. Disgruntled friends who own or have owned a GLE/GLS have come to me personally to vent about their MBUX screens freezing and glitching. The latest models now have even more software-based technology, smart features, and digital implementation.
The GLE SUV offers an extensive range of powertrains. M-B did not simply carry over its engines and increase horsepower. Each powertrain has been revised for better response and refinement, and each is developed with future emissions standards in mind. All models employ 4MATIC AWD, pair with the 9G-TRONIC 9-Speed transmission, tow 7,700 pounds, and are electronically limited to 130 mph.
- GLE 350 4MATIC: The entry model uses the updated 2-liter 4-cylinder mild-hybrid, now with an electric compressor for sharper driving responses. It produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, with the latter available from 2,000 to 3,000 rpm. M-B estimates 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds.
- GLE 450 4MATIC: The 3-liter inline-6 mild-hybrid produces 375 horsepower and peak torque climbs to 413 lb-ft between 2,000 and 4,500 rpm. A stronger electric auxiliary compressor delivers responsive feedback during acceleration and a more connected driving experience. The estimated 0-60 mph time is 5 seconds.
- GLE 500e 4MATIC: The plug-in hybrid trades its old 4-cylinder for a new inline-6 that adds 74 horsepower. The engine makes 322 horsepower and 395 lb-ft, and the electric motor contributes 181 horsepower and 354 lb-ft. Combined system output is 429 horsepower and 502 lb-ft, good for an estimated 5.3-second run to 60 mph. The official EPA all-electric range for the GLE 500e 4MATIC is not yet available.
- GLE 580 4MATIC: The 4-liter twin-turbo V8 mild-hybrid is where M-B introduced some of its most interesting engineering techniques, including a revised turbocharger. Output rises from 510 to 530 horsepower, and torque goes from 538 to 553 lb-ft, available from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm. M-B product planners quote 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds.
The GLE 350, 450, and 580 all use a second-generation integrated starter-generator running on a 48-volt electrical system. It adds 23 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque assist at low engine speeds and handles coasting, boost, and energy recuperation. This type of unit always helps with quicker starts, even when performance driving isn’t your objective.
I spent most of my Rocky Mountain time in an Ireland Mid Green GLE 500e 4MATIC, which replaced the prior 450e. Hybrids blend the best of gas and EV worlds and present strategic solutions for longer journeys and inner-city driving. A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) offers even more flexibility, since its all-electric range can be used around town without tapping your fuel reserves, especially with today’s gas prices. But if you are driving in E-mode and then accelerate, the GLE automatically switches into Hybrid mode. Engineers positioned the 25.3 kWh Lithium-ion battery pack flat in the rear so it doesn’t compromise storage. DC fast charging restores the battery from 10-80% in just 29 minutes.
Cruising around Colorado on staggered 275/45 R21 – 315/40 R21 Pirelli P Zero tires, the enhanced traction of 4MATIC felt confident in every driving scenario. The Torque on Demand AWD system constantly adjusts torque allocation between the two axles, from 0 to 100%, depending on where grip is required. A standard steel suspension and optional AIRMATIC air suspension deliver elevated ride quality, but my vehicle bounced around when it wasn’t in Sport mode. AIRMATIC is far superior. Paired with E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL, it uses de-identified Car-to-X data from other Mercedes-Benz vehicles ahead, sent through the Mercedes-Benz Cloud in real time. So the GLE knows where speed bumps and rough patches are and adjusts its damping shortly before it arrives. Well, I’m an alert driver and don’t require this level of data assistance.
Some of my test model GLE 500e 4MATIC features included bolstered wheel wells, an illuminated grille with the illuminated Mercedes-Benz star insignia, MBUX augmented reality for navigation, comfortable headrest pillows, and a sporty multifunction steering wheel in Nappa leather featuring rocker and roller controls, and the advanced 15-speaker Burmester 3D Surround Sound System (including two new 3D roof speakers). For the best treble-bass balance, choose Intense mode. For GLE character personalization, DYNAMIC SELECT lets you tailor the SUV’s capabilities to different situations. It includes Electric, Battery Hold, Hybrid, Sport, Individual, and Offroad modes, with Offroad lifting the suspension for rock climbing or aggressive terrain. The steering wheel is one of the best in the business and acts as a joystick to operate many of the vehicle’s systems.
MB.OS underpins nearly everything novel in the cockpit. The superscreen is ultra-sophisticated, making it ideal for tech-savvy drivers. The operating system controls every domain and system and connects to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, which means the software can be updated over the air. The passenger display supports video streaming from Disney+, YouTube, and Sony RIDEVU while moving, as long as the driver keeps their eyes on the road. But I’m over the passenger-side display, which I never use. It just seems like another item that can go wrong. AMG Line sport seats come with the AMG Line package, and new colors include Beech Brown with black and a two-tone Classic Red and black in AMG Line Nappa leather. Three new trims include two open-pore woods and polished aluminum.
One of the most visible changes to the GLE sits within the front fascia. The new headlamps each carry two M-B star motifs and a distinctive daytime running light feature, giving the GLE a new, unique lighting signature. A black panel links the headlamps and grille. The side air inlets pick up a subtle star pattern, and a large underride guard gives the lower fascia a more rugged look that suits the GLE’s off-road credentials. In the rear, each taillight holds a pair of three-dimensional star emblems framed in chrome, joined by a trim piece that stretches across the tailgate to emphasize width. Dark Petrol and MANUFAKTUR Patagonia Red Metallic join the paint palette, and four new 20” wheel designs round out the exterior changes.
The 2027 GLE update is broad and compelling rather than flashy and flaunting. Styling changes are noticeable without abandoning what buyers already prefer, and the engines gain power and refinement across the board, with the V8 and the 6-cylinder plug-in hybrid as the standouts. If luxury SUVs are your choice of transportation, definitely put the GLE on your shopping list.
