The refreshed Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV has officially arrived, showcasing comprehensive updates across its design, comfort features, and technology suite. Stuttgart confirmed that engineers revised approximately 3,000 components to enhance refinement and comfort compared to the previous model.

Exterior Design Overhaul and Lighting Innovations

Updated Front Fascia

The most visible changes are concentrated at the front of the vehicle. The GLE now adopts the distinctive “starry-eyed” headlight design seen on contemporary Mercedes models like the GLC EV and the CLA.

These new headlights feature a 2+2 horizontal configuration on the GLE, contrasting with the stacked arrangement found on the larger GLS model. Furthermore, the rear lights now incorporate a two-star motif, increasing to three stars on the GLS.

Grille and Efficiency Gains

The grille has been enlarged and now includes an illuminated central star along with contour lighting, aligning the GLE visually with the rest of the updated Mercedes lineup.

Technologically, the new lighting units are highly efficient, consuming 50% less energy while simultaneously projecting 40% more light than the preceding generation.

Interior Technology and Cabin Upgrades

The New MBUX Superscreen

Inside, the GLE receives a significant technological boost with the introduction of the new MBUX Superscreen. This system comprises three 12.3-inch displays, all operating on the latest version of the Mercedes MB.OS operating system.

Every new GLE will be equipped with the Mercedes MBUX Virtual Assistant, which is designed to receive ongoing improvements via over-the-air (OTA) updates.

Return of Physical Controls

Addressing previous usability concerns, Mercedes has reintroduced physical switchgear to the steering wheel. This replaces the haptic controls that the brand had been utilizing over the past few years.

Powertrain Enhancements and Performance

V8 and Inline-Six Options

The lineup commences with the V8-powered GLE 580 4Matic, which now produces 530bhp and 553ft lbs of torque, spread across a slightly wider rev range. Similar to the updated S-Class revealed in 2026, this engine features a distinctive flatplane crank.

The mid-range includes the 450 4MATIC, powered by a straight-six petrol engine. The entry-level option is the 450e plug-in hybrid, which also utilizes an inline-six engine but offers an all-electric driving range of 66 miles.

Advanced Suspension and Safety Systems

E-Active Body Control

Mercedes’ new E-Active body control technology is engineered to maximize ride comfort. This system utilizes data gathered from approximately 20 sensors, processed by five central processors.

This allows the GLE to adapt to road conditions up to 1,000 times per second, offering drivers the choice between a sportier or a more luxurious ride profile.

Driver Assistance Hardware

For safety and autonomous capabilities, the GLE is equipped with ten exterior cameras, five radars, and twelve ultrasonic sensors to create a comprehensive view of the surroundings for its assistance systems.

It is noted that while adaptive cruise control will be available in the UK, the MB.Drive Assist and Assist Pro features will launch exclusively in China, with US availability to follow. Their introduction in the European Union is currently pending resolution of expensive litigation.