2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE Getting A Minor Makeover, First Look Inside

It’s only been a few days since our spy photographers captured the facelifted Mercedes GLE, but it’s back in the news as another prototype was spotted testing in the Arctic Circle and this time, they were able to take a few shots of the interior.

Snapped up close, the latest pictures give us a better look at the minor modifications inside and out that designers have planned for the popular crossover. [Update 12/18/2021].

Starting up front, we can see a new bumper that no longer features a continuous mid-intake. Instead, it’s been broken up into three distinct sections just like the one used on the third-generation crossover. The lower intake remains, but it appears to feature subtle modifications.

Also Read: 2023 Mercedes GLE Returns To Show Off Minor Updates

Elsewhere, we can see a lightly revised grille and camouflaged headlights. The latter appear to retain their current shape, but adopt new graphics.

Changes to the rear end are harder to see thanks to a combination of snow and camouflage. However, previous pictures have suggested the updates will be minor and mainly focus on the taillights.

This time around, our spies were able to snap some pictures of the cabin and at this stage at least, it looks like the only visible update is the new steering wheel with rest carried over from the current car. Of course, by the time it reaches dealers, there could be additional minor changes such as revised trim and upholstery combinations, an updated infotainment system, and improved driver assistance systems.

Engine options could largely carryover and it’s worth noting Mercedes recently updated the GLE 300d 4MATIC. The model features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine that produces 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 406 lb-ft (550 Nm) of torque. It’s joined by an integrated starter-generator that has a boost function, which can contribute an additional 20 hp (15 kW / 20 PS) and 148 lb-ft (200 Nm) of torque.

Besides the hybrid tech, the GLE 300d was outfitted with a new Torque on Demand transfer case which allows for a 0-100% power split between the axles instead of the old 50:50 fixed split.

We’ll learn more about the facelifted GLE shortly as it’s expected to be introduced next year and offered as a 2023 model in America.