Mercedes has given the big GLE and GLE Coupe a series of updates for 2023, including updates to the 48-volt mild-hybrid setup and the plug-in hybrid powertrains. The updated versions will start hitting dealerships across Europe in July this year.
More power, more electric range
The plug-in hybrids have been given a little more electric range than before, now up to 109km, while the total power outputs are now up to 280kW (380hp) and 750Nm of torque. As standard, the GLE and GLE Coupe plug-in hybrids get 11kW AC charging, but that can be upgraded to 60kW CCS rapid charging as an option.
There are also new versions of the GLE 300d, 450d, and 450 petrol, all with upgraded 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance, bringing their CO2 emissions down to a potential low of 177g/km. Power outputs are also up, from 269hp for the 300d to 381hp for the GLE 400. All versions get a torque boost of up to 200Nm from the mild-hybrid system.
Elsewhere, the GLE's safety package has been upgraded, with active cruise control now standard, along with Active Steering Assist and Traffic Sign Assist. If you're off-roading, then the all-round camera system now also includes a Land Rover-style 'transparent bonnet' function so you can see what's under the nose of the car, while the Trailer Manoeuvring Assist now also includes a widget for the sat-nav that helps you to pick a trailer-friendly route to your destination as well as taking the lower speeds when towing into account when giving you your ETA. The trailer assistance features can be added after purchase as an 'over the air' software update.
Rugged off-road pack
You can specify an Off-Road Engineering Package that gives you beefier underbody protection and, if you've got the optional Airmatic air suspension fitted, up to an extra 30mm of ground clearance.
Merc has also given the GLE and GLE Coupe a visual freshen-up with new bumpers, new grilles, and some detail updates for the headlights and brake lights. GLE Coupe models now get the AMG-Line bodykit as standard, and there are two new colours - 'Sodalite' blue and a matte-style 'Manufaktur' Alpine grey. Alloy wheels sizes run from 19 to 21 inches, optionally.
Inside, both versions get new steering wheels with touch-sensitive controls, while the air vents now get chrome surrounds and - in a very subtle touch - the vent slats are galvanised in real metal, as in the Mercedes-Maybach GLS. There are also some new interior colour options. Newly available as an optional extra is 'Energising Air Control.' The system monitors air quality using air quality and fine particle sensors. A two-stage filter concept reduces fine particles and a large proportion of other pollutant components. The vehicle intelligently switches between fresh air and air-recirculation modes depending on the measurement value.
Updated infotainment
The MBUX infotainment system stretches across two 12.3-inch screens (one for instruments, one for entertainment and info) and has been updated to include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an improved 'Hey Mercedes; digital voice assistant and greater connectivity for things such as your smart home devices.
The full-fat AMG models, using the 53 straight-six or 63 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engines, also get new bodykit styling, new 22-inch wheels, and extra standard equipment such as active high beam LED headlights. The engine control software for both models has also been upgraded, and there have been some tweaks to the suspension and the active roll control system.