It was only a matter of time before Mercedes-Benz gave the popular GLE the partially electrified treatment it now has: enter the 2024 GLE 450e.
The popular mid-size luxury SUV finally comes in plug-in form, yielding a zero-emissions range of approximately 77 kilometers while offering all the same features and styling that people enjoy from the recently refreshed platform. This provides an option for those who don’t yet see anything they like among the German marque’s next-generation EQ lineup.
A single silver-bladed repeating star mesh grille—part of an AMG Line Exterior package (+ $2,200) bundling 20-inch AMG twin five-spoke wheels, sport brake system, and more—looks great, accented by the metallic hits on the front bumper, around the window frames, on the available aluminum running boards (+ $845) and across the tailgate.
As part of the facelift, the headlamps boast revised LED daytime running lights, the side air intake strakes are housed in a painted bezel, and the inner taillight reflectors have a slightly different design.
Mercedes-Benz says the Maybach GLS and S-Class inspire the cabin with additions like the chromed air vents and ambient lighting color palettes, the latter of which is welcomingly reserved compared to the nightclub aesthetic of some of its siblings. The new steering wheel incorporates touch-sensitive horizontal spokes to control the dual 12.3-inch display screens, and the column incorporates a hidden heated function switch - something sorely missing on EQ vehicles. The standard anthracite open-pore oak wood dash trim is absolutely beautiful.
The second generation of Mercedes-Benz User experience software powers the infotainment system and enables wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity for the first time. The 13-speaker Burmester stereo also receives a few tweaks, including the ability to create a personal sound profile and stream music.
A transparent engine hood is also being introduced. Selecting this mode utilizes the several cameras installed around the crossover and gives a virtual view of what the terrain looks like underneath the front section, which is useful for navigating obstacles and steep inclines.
Propelling the SUV is a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four-cylinder engine, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and an electric motor, which together make a net 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Under regular operation, electric-only output is prioritized in lower-speed city driving and the ride is whisper quiet. Even when the I.C.E. kicks in, the sound isn’t too harsh, like on many PHEVs.
Unusual for the segment, the 23.3-kilowatt-hour battery supports up to 60-kilowatt DC fast charging alongside 11-kilowatt Level 2, making the model a great choice for urban commuting and longer road trips.
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e is sold in three grades: Premium (base), Exclusive and Pinnacle. DARPAN tested the latter with add-ons like the aforementioned AMG Line Exterior and aluminum running boards, 21-inch alloys ($1,430), Macchiato Beige Interior ($2,105), and Exclusive Trim (heated and ventilated front seating, heated front armrests, and upper door panels, head-up display + navigation augmented reality projection, $2,350). Prices start at $90,100.00 MSRP.
Highlights:
MSRP: $102,630 (as tested)
Motor: 2.0-litre four-cylinder + electric motor
Horsepower: 381 (net)
Torque (lb-ft): 479 (net)
Gearbox: nine-speed automatic
Layout: front-engine, all-wheel drive
Fuel economy: 5.2 L/100 km mixed city/highway (observed)