Styling updates see latest Mercedes features such as new LED highlights but keep the hallmark C-pillar at the rear.

Across the available engine range, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are reduced by 17% on average compared with the predecessor. Two diesel engines are offered – the 204hp four-cylinder diesel model GLE 250d, with 140g of CO2/km and 5.4l/100km official combined, plus the 258hp V6 diesel engine in the GLE 350d 4MATIC with 169g/km and 44.1mpg. Both come with the nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission as standard.

In addition, for the first time in its SUV history, Mercedes-Benz offers a plug-in hybrid model, the GLE 500 e 4MATIC, which comes with a seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. The hybrid combines a BlueDIRECT V6 direct-injection petrol engine with 333hp and a hybrid module with 116hp of electric power, which delivers official CO2 emissions of 78g/km and 3.3l/100km combined. In addition, the hybrid model is capable of up to 30km of all-electric driving. 

The driver can choose between four specific operating modes: Hybrid, E-Mode, E-Save, which preserves the current state of charge of the battery to be able to drive on all-electric power at a later time, and Charge, where the battery is charged while driving and when the vehicle is stationary.

The hybrid can be recharged using public charging stations, the wallbox charger at or on a conventional 220 volt power outlet. The charging time using the wallbox charger or the charging station is around two hours.

At the top of the range, the successor to the ML 63 AMG is now called the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 and features a more powerful AMG 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with 557hp in the basic variant and 585hp for the S-Model. It also brins a completely revised chassis. It also brings the familiar AMG family face with “A-wing” and twin-blade radiator grille. Fuel consumption is rated at 11.8l/100km, with CO2 emissions of 278g/km for both versions.

All models with four- and six-cylinder engines are equipped with the AGILITY CONTROL steel suspension as standard. The AIRMATIC package with ADS is optionally available for these versions. An electro-mechanical Direct-Steer system is standard on all models.

Standard equipment, depending on market, includes new assistance systems such as Crosswind Assist and Collision Prevention Assist Plus along with ECO start/stop function, the Dynamic Select controller, the revised multifunction steering wheel as well as the Audio 20 CD infotainment system with 7-inch display and communications module for the use of Mercedes connect me services.

The AMG Line package also brings bespoke front and rear bumpers and 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels along with interior features such as leather upholstery, a black nappa leather multifunction sports steering wheel, an instrument cluster with distinct dial in chequered-flag design and brushed stainless-steel sports pedals with rubber studs. 

Options include the latest generation of the Comand Online system with a 8-inch display and intuitive touchpad.