The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has been facelifted following an official teaser and countless spy shots dating back to 2021. Not including the AMG models, the GLE will be available in four different configurations. The biggest addition under the hood is a 48-volt mild-hybrid system available in all models except for the new-for-2024 GLE 400e 4MATIC, which is a plug-in hybrid.

As with 2023, the GLE 350 sits as the base model with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. 4MATIC all-wheel-drive is now standard and output remains the same at 255 hp. The 48-volt Integrated Starter Generator contributes 20 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque, raising the total torque figure from 273 in the 2023 model to 295 lb-ft for 2024. 0-60 mph on the base model takes a relaxed seven seconds. As before, power goes out through a nine-speed automatic transmission.

The GLE 450 4MATIC ups the power with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six producing 375 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. That's a slight increase from the previous model's 362 hp rating, while torque remains the same. This model takes only 5.3 seconds to hit 60 mph. Buyers who crave faster acceleration but don't want the harsh AMG ride can opt for the GLE 580 4MATIC. It packs a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 delivering 510 hp and 538 lb-ft of torque, up from 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. This is by far the quickest non-AMG GLE, hitting 60 mph in 4.3 seconds.

As we mentioned, the GLE 400e 4MATIC plug-in hybrid model joins the lineup to rival the BMW X5 PHEV, which is expected to get an update later this year. It's powered by a diminutive 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 248 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, but the permanently excited synchronous motor adds 134 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque.

The total combined outputs best the inline-six with 381 hp and 479 lb-ft, but 0-60 is a bit slower at 5.8 seconds due to the excess weight. A 11 kW AC on-board charger comes standard and the GLE will be one of the only PHEVs to offer an available 60 kW DC charger.

Available only on the GLE 580, a new Off-Road Engineering Package brings the capability to a new level. This package adds an underbody guard and additional 1.2 inches of ground clearance from the AIRMATIC air suspension. So long as the Parking Package is equipped, Off-Road mode activates a virtual view that shows what's underneath the car, including the front wheels and steering position through a "transparent hood."

Mercedes has also made it easier to tow with the GLE using the new Trailer Route Planner. The navigation system can now alter the driving route based on trailer dimension and weight, even if it's something small like a bike rack. There's even a Trailer Maneuvering Assist feature that makes it simpler to back up with a trailer.

The GLE doesn't look drastically different on the exterior compared to the 2023 model. There are two new horizontal louvres with chrome inserts in the grille, a horizontal chrome accent in the air intakes, and slightly revised headlights/taillights. An AMG Line exterior package is available on all trims, but comes standard on the GLE 580. Twilight Blue Metallic and MANUFAKTUR Alpine Grey are added to the color palette as are new 19-, 20-, and 21-inch wheels.

Inside, the GLE gets a new steering wheel with touch sensor controls. Maybach-inspired chrome air vents adds a touch of luxury, as do the new Catalana Beige/Black and Bahia Brown/Black color schemes. Finally, the GLE benefits from the latest second-generation MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens packing wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

No pricing or fuel economy information is available yet. The 2023 GLE range, including the AMG models, will arrive at US dealerships in 2023.