The Mercedes GLE is reaching middle age so it comes as little surprise that spy photographers have snapped a facelifted prototype on the Nürburgring.
Caught wearing a moderate amount of camouflage, the updated crossover has a revised front bumper with pronounced air intakes featuring a horizontal accent. They reside on either side of a new skid plate that features a central intake on top.
Elsewhere, we can see a more rounded grille and updated headlights. The latter are obscured by camouflage, but it appears they will feature LED daytime running lights that echo those found on the C- and S-Class.
Also Read: 2023 Mercedes GLE Spied For The First Time, Will Be Getting A Minor Facelift
Additional changes are limited, but the rear end will receive a minor refreshening. However, the updates will apparently be limited to the taillights which feature revised graphics.
The interior will likely follow suit as there doesn’t appear to be any major changes. However, we wouldn’t be surprised to find a new steering wheel, an updated infotainment system, and revised trim and upholstery combinations.
Engine options remain the biggest mystery, but the GLE currently offers a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 255 hp (190 kW / 259 PS) and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque as well as a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 362 hp (270 kW / 367 PS) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque. Customers can also opt for a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with outputs ranging from 483 hp (360 kW / 490 PS) to 603 hp (450 kW / 611 PS).
While the V8 variants are getting dropped in the United States for 2022, they’ll presumably return the following year as long as supply chain issues have been worked out.