2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV facelift has debuted globally. The new updated SUV model gets subtle exterior & interior changes.
- Facelifted GLE SUV now gets plug-in hybrid & mild-hybrid tech
- Subtle changes to the exteriors & interiors
- India launch possible soon
Mercedes-Benz has debuted the facelift of the GLE SUV internationally. The new GLE SUV has received mild styling changes as well as technical updates. The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE facelift is expected to launch in India soon. Read the details of changes in the facelifted model below.
Also Read - 2023 Mahindra Thar RWD Deliveries Start Pan India
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV - Design & Features
In terms of design, not much has changed. Mercedes has only added subtle changes to its exteriors as well as interiors. A revised front bumper, headlights, taillights, & alloy wheel design are the only new changes. Speaking of the AMG variants, they are also largely unchanged. However, Mercedes has given the AMG line a fresh flair for change. The new GLE AMG variants now get a new front bumper, revised headlights, revised taillights, & new design sills.
Meanwhile, the cabin has now received the addition of the latest MBUX infotainment system. A new steering wheel, & chrome-finished AC vents are the new additions. However, the rest of the cabin is similar to the old model. Hence, the seat design, panoramic sunroof, and overall space are the same as before. The cabin also gets a new advanced version of Mercedes Distronic Plus active cruise control system and a new Parking Package with a 360-degree camera.
Powertrain Changes - Hybrid Details
Globally, Mercedes-Benz GLE was available with a GLE 300d and 400d trims. While the 300d remains unchanged with 269 bhp of power output; the 400d has been revised. The 400d is now equipped with a 48V IGS motor hence, the power output is up by 20bhp (381bhp total). Thus, a new trim called 450d is now alive. Mercedes-Benz will be selling the 300d & 450d from now on in the global markets. Both of these engine options use mild-hybrid IGS technology with 48V power.
Mercedes-Benz has also debuted the PHEV versions of the GLE. Called the GLE 400e, this plug-in hybrid uses an electric motor with a 2.0-lt turbo petrol engine. Hence, the total power output is 380bhp & 600 Nm of torque. This variant has replaced the GLE 350e. However, the diesel version of the plug-in hybrid i.e. the GLE 350de remains unchanged. Both of these variants use a 31.2kWh of battery pack for generating this added power.
Speaking of the AMG models, there are two of them. A GLE 53 & GLE 63 S AMG. The former gets a 3.0-lt inline-six turbo petrol engine that makes a total of 435bhp & 560Nm of power & torque. However, the later 63 S gets a bigger 4.0-lt V8 bi-turbo petrol that makes a peak power of 612bhp & 850 Nm of peak torque. Both of these AMG variants come with a 48V mild-hybrid tech.
Verdict
While the latest model of the GLE SUV has debuted globally; it will soon get launched in India. The domestic market of India is one of the biggest for Mercedes-Benz. Hence, the launch of the updated GLE is not far. However, expect a considerable price hike with the new model launch. It will be primarily due to the added features. Its main rivals in India are - Audi Q5, BMW X5, & Volvo XC60.