2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE lineup revealed with a new plug-in hybrid version

Mercedes has just officially introduced to the public the 2024 GLE-Class lineup. In particular, the 2024 upgraded versions have a new model with environmentally friendly features.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has been officially introduced to consumers. The GLE line (excluding AMG models) will be available in four different configurations. For this launch, the biggest addition under the hood is the 48-volt mild hybrid system that will be available in all models except the GLE 400e 4MATIC for the 2024 model year, and it is a plug-in hybrid.

As with 2023, the GLE 350 is the base model with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. 4MATIC all-wheel drive is now standard on the GLE 350, and power remains the same at 255 horsepower.

The model's 48-volt electrical system contributes 20 horsepower and 148 lb-ft (200 Nm) of torque, bringing the total torque figure to 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) for 2024 compared to 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) for the 2023 model. The GLE 350 is capable of accelerating from 0-62 mph in about 7 seconds. And like previous versions, the model comes with a 9-speed automatic transmission.

The GLE 450 4MATIC gets a power boost with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that produces 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque. That's a slight increase from the previous model's 362 horsepower, while torque remains the same.

This model takes just 5.3 seconds to reach 60 mph. For those who want a faster car but don’t want to drive an AMG, they might want to consider the GLE 580 4MATIC. It’s powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 510 horsepower and 538 lb-ft (730 Nm) of torque (up from 483 hp and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) in the previous release). It’s the fastest non-AMG GLE to date, hitting 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds.

As mentioned, the GLE 400e 4MATIC plug-in hybrid will join the lineup to compete with the BMW X5 PHEV – BMW’s SUV is expected to get an update later this year. The GLE 400e 4MATIC plug-in hybrid is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 248 horsepower and 295 pound-feet (400 Nm) of torque, but a permanent magnet synchronous motor adds an additional 134 horsepower and 325 pound-feet (440 Nm) of torque.

The plug-in hybrid’s best combined output is an inline-six with 381 hp and 479 lb-ft (650 Nm). The 0-62 mph time is estimated at 5.8 seconds, while the electric range has yet to be announced. The German automaker says the model will come with an 11 kW AC onboard charger as standard, and the GLE will be one of the only PHEVs to offer a 60 kW DC charger as well.

In particular, the new Off-Road Engineering package is available exclusively for the GLE 580, further enhancing the vehicle's off-road capabilities. This package adds underbody protection and an additional 1.2 inches of ground clearance from the AIRMATIC air suspension. As long as the Parking Package is equipped, Off-Road mode activates a virtual view of what's underneath the vehicle, including the front wheels and the driving position, through a "transparent roof".

Mercedes has also made it easier for GLE models to manage traction with the Trailer Route Planner tool. The navigation system can now change the driving route based on the size and weight of the trailer, even if it's something as small as a bike rack.

In terms of exterior, the 2024 GLE is not much different from the 2023 version. The model has two new horizontal bars with chrome details in the radiator grille and a new horizontal chrome accent in the air intakes, along with slightly modified headlights/taillights. The AMG Line exterior package is available on all versions, but is standard on the GLE 580. In addition, this year's Mercedes-Benz GLE has two new color options: Twilight Blue Metallic and MANUFAKTUR Alpine Gray, accompanied by unique 19-, 20- and 21-inch wheels.

On the interior, the GLE gets a new steering wheel with horizontal spokes and a touch-sensitive surface, while the chrome-plated air vents inspired by the Maybach add to the luxury of the car. Similar to the exterior paint, the interior also gets two new color options: Catalana Beige/Black and Bahia Brown/Black. Finally, the GLE benefits from the latest second-generation MBUX infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens that integrate wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.