What Is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE mid-size SUV seats five in standard form or seven with its available third row, and it’s available with a variety of powertrains and options. All GLEs come with all-wheel drive. The base GLE350 is powered by a 255-horsepower, turbocharged four-cylinder engine. A 375-hp, turbocharged inline-six powers the GLE450, while a 510-hp, twin-turbo V-8 is used in the GLE580. All three powertrains are equipped with 48-volt mild-hybrid systems. A new-for-2024 GLE450e plug-in hybrid pairs a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a 23.3-kilowatt-hour battery for a total of 381 hp and an EPA-estimated electric-only driving range of 48 miles.
For high-performance buyers, Mercedes offers two AMG-tuned models: the 429-hp AMG GLE53 and 603-hp AMG GLE63S. Both are available as a traditional SUV or in a sloped-roof coupe body style; the latter features a fastback-style tail to give it a sportier (albeit less practical) design.
With so many permutations, the GLE’s competition is varied, including the likes of the Audi Q8, BMW X5, Genesis GV80, Land Rover Range Rover Sport and Volvo XC90.
What’s New on the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE?
In addition to the new 450e PHEV variant, the GLE lineup gets freshened exterior styling that includes a revised front grille and bumper design, along with new wheel designs and interior details. Other updates include a new steering wheel and the latest version of the MBUX infotainment interface, which can be equipped with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
What Features in the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Are Most Important?
Standard features include:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen
- 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Wireless device charging
- Heated front seats
- Power liftgate
- 360-degree camera system
- LED headlights with automatic high beams
- Forward collision warning with automatic braking
- Blind spot warning
- Driver-drowsiness monitor
Available features include:
- Leather seating surfaces
- Heated and ventilated front seats with massage function
- Cabin air fragrance diffuser
- Third-row seating
- Heated armrests
- Heated and cooled cupholders
- Adaptive cruise control
- Head-up instrument display
- Road sign recognition
- MBUX voice recognition
Should I Buy the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE?
The Mercedes GLE certainly spoils SUV shoppers when it comes to options, but even in its base format, it’s elegantly appointed, and the 255-hp turbo four won’t make you feel like you’ve skimped on power. Venturing to higher trims, you’re greeted with gobs more horsepower and a dizzying array of comfort and tech features. It’s not perfect, though: The optional third-row seats are cramped for adults, and some of the fancier onboard tech requires patience and time spent with the owner’s manual.
