MERCEDES BENZ GLE-Class Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

The German automaker introduced a facelifted version for the GLE lineup at the beginning of 2023, adding more features to its well-known premium SUV, improving the powertrains, and refreshing the car's look.

Mercedes-Benz introduced the fourth generation of the GLE (which was known as the ML-Class) in 2018 at the Paris Motor Show and gave it a well-deserved facelift in 2023. Usually, the automaker used to upgrade its models every other four years. But the automaker didn't cut any corners on this refreshed version, improving the car's look, the interior, and the drivetrains.

The 2024 GLE featured an improved front fascia that sported high-performance LED headlights with two blocks for the daytime running lights and four for the versions fitted with the multibeam LED technology. Its grille also sported a new double slat. Finally, the GLE featured two blocks on the taillights at the back, divided between the rear quarter panels and the racked-forward tailgate.

The interior boasted bolstered front seats and a split-folding bench in the rear, as its predecessor. On the dashboard, though, Mercedes-Benz installed two wide screens behind the same piece of glass, creating the image of a seamless wide display. The driver had its digital instrument panel, while atop the center stack was the touchscreen for the MBAUX infotainment system. New features were also added to the car, including a system that could help the driver when backing up with a trailer attached.

Under the hood, the German automaker introduced a new generation of hybrid drivetrains that included an integrated starter generator (ISG), which helped the luxurious GLE get better fuel efficiency. As expected, all versions were paired with a nine-speed automatic gearbox that sent the power to all corners.

The German automaker introduced the first fully-fledged, designed from the ground-up GLE in 2020, after a few generations of indecision regarding the mid-size SUV nameplate.

Mercedes-Benz introduced the ML-Class in 1997, and until 2015 it was named that way. But starting with that year, the model's nameplate was changed to GLE. But still, that was just a facelifted version of the third generation of this SUV. So, the 2020 GLE might be considered the first to be 100% created under this moniker. Regardless of the name, though, the vehicle was a benchmark in the industry, forcing other automakers to upgrade their SUVs to higher standards.

The 2020 GLE sported Mercedes-Benz's new design language, with two arrow-shaped LED daytime running lights integrated into the headlights. Thus, it confirmed its position in the middle, between the GLC (formerly known as the GLK) and the full-size luxury SUV, the GLS. Its main grille was adorned with two satin-chromed slats that supported the carmaker's badge. Despite its size, thanks to the soft edges and curved panels, the car looked smaller. A tall greenhouse with a tilted-forward tailgate was already a main design cue for the vehicle.

Inside, Mercedes-Benz installed a pair of comfortable bucket seats at the front, separated by a tall center console. There, the automaker installed the controls for the MBUX infotainment system, which featured a display placed atop the center stack. The German car manufacturer ditched the analog dials and the instrument cluster altogether. Instead, it installed a display in front of the driver that showed all the necessary driving data and then some more info from the onboard computer. In the back, the bench seat was large enough to comfortably accommodate three passengers.

For this model, the automaker installed an extensive engine range that covered all tastes. Thus, it offered the car with either gasoline, turbo-diesel, or hybrid drivetrains. Yet, all versions were fitted with standard all-wheel drive systems and nine-speed automatic transmissions.

The GLE was introduced on the market in 2015 as the facelift for the third generation of the ML-Class. But it was more than just a re-badge of a car. It was the integration into a constellation.

The first generation of the ML was launched in 1997 and even if it featured body-on-frame construction, it was an important step toward the new age of sport-utility vehicles. The second generation adopted the unibody construction and the third generation brought more technology. In 2015, the mid-life cycle refresh received a new name, according to the new naming system from Mercedes-Benz: the GLE.

The 2015 GLE featured a revised package with the grille, bumpers, headlights, fenders, and the hood with two power domes. The LED daytime running lights were integrated into the upper part of the headlights and the LED taillights were enhanced.

Inside, the 7” standard media display was accessible via the COMAND controller with the touchpad fitted above in an optimal ergonomic position. New colors and materials were used to enhance comfort and new safety systems were added, such as the Crosswind Assist and Collision Prevention Assist Plus.

For the engine lineup, there was the new inline-six 3.0-liter engine bi-turbo unit, which offered 333 hp. The same engine was installed in the plug-in hybrid version where it was helped by a 116 hp electric power. The energy was stored into an 8.8 kWh battery pack and allowed the GLE to drive 29.7 km (18.5 miles) on electricity at speeds up to 128.7 kph (80 mph).