In 1997, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, the direct ancestor of the fashionable GLE, was a pioneer within the premium SUV section. Quick-forward to now, and the German automaker is doubling down on that legacy with an up to date GLE that blends its longstanding historical past with what you would possibly describe as digital or linked intelligence.
The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE arrives with roughly 3,000 new or revised elements, and whereas meaning it is from a beauty facelift or one-off refresh, the headlines aren’t nearly {hardware}. This newest model of the GLE marks the debut of the Mercedes-Benz Working System (MB.OS), a proprietary supercomputer that makes use of synthetic intelligence and cloud connectivity to remodel the automobile right into a digital companion.
Whether or not you’re navigating tough terrain or main a crew assembly from the driving force’s seat (actually, you’ll be able to!), the brand new GLE goals to be probably the most succesful three-row luxurious SUV in the marketplace.
4 strong powertrains
V8 receives a notable energy soar
Mercedes-Benz has overhauled the GLE’s engine lineup, specializing in responsiveness and future-proofing for emissions requirements. Each mannequin now options some type of electrification, primarily by way of the up to date Built-in Starter Generator (listed as “ISG 2.0” by Mercedes-Benz). This 48-volt system permits coasting with the engine off, enhances acceleration, and makes the start-stop transition extra seamless.
Listed below are the 4 powertrain configurations at a look. Every embody fleece insulation for the driveshaft tunnel and an engine cowl to soak up high-frequency combustion noises.
- GLE 350 4MATIC: Options an improved M254 EVO four-cylinder with an electrical compressor for higher low-end punch. The 2-liter engine produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque.
- GLE 450 4MATIC: Signature inline six-cylinder now produces 375 horsepower and 413 lb-ft. of torque, aided by a brand new electrical auxiliary compressor and optimized consumption/exhaust ports.
- GLE 580 4MATIC: Prime-tier V8 sees an influence soar to 530 horsepower and 553 lb-ft. of torque. Notably, it now makes use of a “flat-plane” crankshaft (much like high-performance supercars) for smoother energy supply and higher effectivity. Mercedes-Benz engineers additionally redesigned the compressor wheel and housing of the exhaust fuel turbocharger.
- GLE 500e 4MATIC (Plug-in Hybrid): PHEV is now based mostly on the refined six-cylinder engine, providing a big 74-horsepower improve over the earlier four-cylinder hybrid. Mixed system output is 429 horsepower and 502 lb-ft. of torque. Even with its unimaginable energy output, it returns 106 km (roughly 65 miles) of all-electric vary in accordance with the WLTP cycle.
Base Trim Engine
2.0L Turbo Inline-4
Base Trim Transmission
9-speed computerized
Base Trim Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Cloud-based damper management
Actual-time vehicle-to-X communication
The GLE has at all times been recognized for its trip high quality, however the 2027 mannequin introduces know-how that successfully permits it to “see” the street.
For instance, the usual air suspension now incorporates a Mercedes-Benz innovation known as cloud-based damper management, the primary of its type on the earth. Utilizing Car-to-Every little thing communication, the 2027 GLE receives anonymized information from different Mercedes-Benz autos. If a Mercedes forward hits a pothole or bump, that info is shipped to the cloud; then your GLE pre-adjusts its damping earlier than you attain it.
In the meantime, the optionally available E-Lively Physique Management system of GLE 580 4MATIC analyzes the street at a fee of 1,000 instances per second, controlling every wheel’s spring and damper forces individually earlier than a bump. It even features a free-wheeling mode for off-roading. For those who get caught, the 2027 GLE can routinely pump the suspension up and down, rocking the SUV to enhance traction and assist it “hop” out of no matter it is caught in.
In an analogous vein, the clear hood characteristic makes use of the 360-degree digicam system to point out a view of what’s immediately beneath the GLE on the middle show. This enables drivers to see rocks, stumps, or different obstacles that might in any other case be hidden by the engine bay.
Associated
This Mercedes-Benz is likely one of the least expensive luxurious SUVs in 2026
A Mercedes badge with out the same old sticker shock.
MBUX superscreen and video conferencing
“I believe you are on mute”
Inside, the GLE is dominated by the MBUX Superscreen, a big (for lack of a greater phrase!) glass floor housing three 12.3-inch shows. Whereas the driving force focuses on the street, the entrance passenger can stream content material from Disney+, YouTube, or Sony RIDEVU.
The voice management system now makes use of AI from Microsoft, Google, and ChatGPT. Described as a multi-agent strategy by Mercedes-Benz, the AI assistant can have extra in-depth conversations with the driving force and occupants. Homeowners may even select the AI assistant’s persona, be it a traditional Mercedes-Benz star or a futuristic human-like avatar.
Maybe probably the most useful addition for engaged on the street is video conferencing functionality. Utilizing the in-vehicle app retailer, drivers can obtain the Conferences for Groups app. Whereas the GLE is in movement, the digicam will be activated so different assembly contributors can see the driving force. Nevertheless, to forestall distractions, drivers can’t see shared slides or different contributors’ video feeds.
Away from the workplace, the GLE stays as versatile as ever for households, with an optionally available third-row seat. Entry is made simpler by way of a button that slides the second row ahead. Cargo house, one of the vital essential metrics for a luxurious SUV, is 22.3 cubic ft behind the third row and as much as 29 cubic ft when the third row is folded. Folding the second and third rows will yield as much as 72.6 cubic ft of house.
A luxurious SUV with wonderful air high quality
With a mix of V8 energy and handy tech options, the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE is a stable possibility for these in search of a three-row luxurious SUV.
Those that should always combat their sinuses will even admire how the 2027 GLE makes use of a multi-stage electrical filter and PM2.5 sensors to observe air high quality and refresh the cabin air each 90 seconds. If the sensors detect excessive ranges of mud or carbon monoxide outdoors, the system routinely switches to recirculation.
On the time of this writing, Mercedes-Benz has not but launched the official beginning MSRP for the 2027 GLE.
The present 2026 GLE 350 begins round $62,250, whereas the V8-powered GLE 580 sits nearer to $90,000. Given the upgrades throughout the 2027 GLE lineup, count on a slight bump within the base value, probably beginning within the $64,000 to $65,000 vary.
