- Mercedes appears to be working on a second facelift for the GLE, following an update in 2023.
- Early prototypes suggest the crossover will have a more expressive front fascia with a revised grille and new headlights.
- The interior could be updated with a new steering wheel, freestanding instrument panel and larger infotainment display.
Mercedes introduced the facelifted GLE early last year, but it appears the company is already working on a more extensive update. This could be a wise move as it would extend the life of the current crossover at a time when the company is spending heavily on electric vehicles.
Given this is an early prototype snapped at a distance, there isn’t much to see besides a camouflaged front fascia. While details are hard to make out, it appears the crossover has been equipped with a larger and rounder grille.
More: Facelifted 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE And GLE Coupe Go Hybrid-Only
We can also see new headlights that appear to have a curvier, sweptback design. They’re joined by a new bumper, which is largely obscured. The rest of the design appears to carryover, but we can likely expect more extensive changes as development progresses.
Speaking of changes, spy photographers suggest the cabin could receive a major redesign. While that remains to be seen, the model could adopt a new steering wheel and a freestanding digital instrument cluster. We can also expect a modern infotainment system, which could potentially adopt a portrait orientation.
Baldauf
Engine options are a closely guarded secret, but the current GLE offers a host of different powertrains including a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 255 hp (190 kW / 258 PS), a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 375 hp (280 kW / 380 PS) , and a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with 510 hp (380 kW / 517 PS). Customers can also get a GLE 450e plug-in hybrid with 381 hp (284 kW / 386 PS) and an electric-only range of 48 miles (77 km).
As if that wasn’t enough options, the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 has 429 hp (320 kW / 435 PS) while the GLE 63 S packs 603 hp (450 kW / 611 PS). Last October, the company also introduced the 2026 GLE 53 Hybrid. It has a plug-in hybrid powertrain that consists of a 3.0-liter inline-six, an electric motor, and a 31.2 kWh battery pack. This gives the crossover a combined output of 536 hp (400 kW / 543 PS) and 553 lb-ft (749 Nm) of torque.
