Mercedes GLE getting second facelift already, including refreshed look for hot AMG version
The Mercedes mid-size SUV and BMW X5 rival received a facelift in 2023, but more tweaks are now on the way
The Mercedes GLE received an extensive series of updates just two years ago, however someone in the brand’s styling department clearly thinks the premium mid-size SUV’s look is already showing its age, because it's getting another nip and tuck this year.
The last time the GLE was updated, Mercedes added a new range of mild-hybrid 48-volt petrol and diesel engines, updated plug-in hybrid technology, standard-fit air suspension and Mercedes’ new MBUX infotainment system. There was also a host of fresh interior and upholstery choices to go with a few exterior tweaks.
Based on our latest spy photography, the GLE is getting a new, simplified front bumper, refreshed headlight design and potentially a revised grille – though still with the enormous Mercedes three-pointed star logo sitting pride of place.
The new headlights incorporate a three-pointed star lighting signature that we know will feature on the hugely important new Mercedes CLA that’s being unveiled soon, which may have inspired the other styling changes too. Similar tweaks appear to have been applied to the rear, including the new signature for the tail-lights.
As well as the ordinary GLE, we’ve spotted the hot AMG version testing, which is easily recognisable thanks to its more aggressive front bumper, large ‘Panamerica grille’, bright red brake calipers, quad exhaust tips and tiny diffuser in the rear bumper.
Updated Mercedes GLE powertrains and trim levels
The current, second-generation GLE arrived in 2019 and rivals big upmarket SUVs like the BMW X5, Audi Q7 and Alfa Romeo Stelvio – all-new generations of which are all on the way, and some will arrive this year. Other competitors include the Range Rover Sport, Lexus RX and Volvo XC90.
A few of these have all-electric variants or equivalents and it's the same with the GLE in the form of the EQE SUV. With this latest update, we can expect the GLE’s lifecycle to extend past 2025, when a new all-electric Mercedes SUV will launch on the upcoming MB.EA platform.
The GLE is likely to be offered with the same selection of trim levels and powertrains after its next update, although pricing could be tweaked. As it stands, the GLE range kicks off at £75,445 for the GLE 300 d, ranging up to £143,595 for the snappily-named Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ Night Edition Premium Plus.
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