2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2025 vs 2024: Key Model Differences

Meta: Compare the 2026, 2025, and 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE. See what’s changed in features, performance, tech, and design across model years

The Mercedes-Benz GLE has established itself as a cornerstone of the luxury midsize SUV segment. With continuous refinements and updates across model years, Mercedes-Benz ensures this popular vehicle remains at the forefront of luxury, technology, and performance. 

Design Evolution

2026 GLE Exterior Updates

This new Mercedes-Benz SUV features several notable exterior design changes:

• Refreshed front fascia with a more aggressive grille design that’s wider at the top and narrows toward the bottom
• Redesigned LED headlights with the distinctive Mercedes-Benz star pattern daytime running lights
• Updated front bumper with reshaped air intakes and aerodynamic elements
• New wheel designs ranging from 20 to 22 inches
• Subtle updates to the rear with refined taillights and bumper design
• Expanded exterior colour palette with new metallic and matte finish options
• Standard panoramic sunroof across most trim levels

2025 GLE Exterior Features

This model maintained many design elements from the previous facelift with some refinements:

• LED headlights with distinctive light signature
• Chrome accents highlighting key exterior features
• Available illuminated running boards
• Power-folding side mirrors with memory function
• Similar overall silhouette to the previous model
• Standard 20-inch wheels with optional larger sizes
• AMG Line appearance package with sportier styling elements

2024 GLE Facelift Design

This model year brought a significant mid-cycle refresh:

• Completely restyled headlights with new light signature
• Updated front bumper and grille design
• Redesigned taillights with new LED patterns
• Refreshed wheel designs across the lineup
• Introduction of new exterior colour options
• Updated AMG styling packages

Interior Refinements

2026 GLE Interior Enhancements

The new interior represents the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz luxury and technology:

• Available Mercedes-Benz Hyperscreen spanning the entire dashboard
• Enhanced premium materials throughout with new trim options
• Multi-contour front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions
• Refined dashboard layout with seamless integration of displays
• Expanded ambient lighting system with additional lighting zones
• Increased sound insulation for a quieter cabin experience
• Available four-zone climate control system
• Enhanced rear seat comfort with optional heating and ventilation

2025 GLE Interior Features

This model offered a premium cabin experience with:

• Dual 12.3-inch screens for instrumentation and infotainment
• Premium leather upholstery options
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Ambient lighting with 64 colours
• Available heated steering wheel
• Optional massage function for front seats
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Available third-row seating in SUV models

2024 GLE Interior Updates

The facelift introduced:

• New steering wheel design with updated controls
• Revised trim and upholstery options
• Enhanced comfort features
• Updated MBUX interface
• Improved ergonomics and control layout

Performance and Powertrain

2026 GLE Engine Options

The new model offers a comprehensive range of powertrain options:

• GLE 350: 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder with 48V mild-hybrid technology producing 255 horsepower
• GLE 450: Enhanced 3.0L turbocharged inline-six with 48V mild-hybrid system delivering 381 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque
• GLE 400e: Plug-in hybrid combining a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder with electric motor for a combined 375 horsepower and 650 Nm of torque
• GLE 580: 4.0L bi-turbo V8 with mild-hybrid assistance generating 483 horsepower
• AMG GLE 53: Enhanced 3.0L inline-six with 434 horsepower and 560 Nm of torque
• AMG GLE 53 Hybrid: Plug-in hybrid version with 536 horsepower and 750 Nm of torque
• AMG GLE 63 S: 4.0L bi-turbo V8 producing 603 horsepower

All new models feature 4MATIC all-wheel drive and a 9-speed automatic transmission.

2025 GLE Performance Features

This model year featured similar powertrain options with minor tuning differences:

• Comparable engine lineup with slight improvements to efficiency
• Enhanced 9-speed transmission programming for smoother shifts
• Similar performance figures across the range
• Standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive
• Refined driving dynamics with improved suspension tuning

2024 Powertrain Updates

The facelift introduced several powertrain enhancements:

• Introduction of the GLE 400e plug-in hybrid variant
• Increased power output for the GLE 450 to 381 horsepower
• Enhanced AMG GLE 53 with 434 horsepower (up from 429)
• Introduction of the AMG GLE 53 Hybrid with 536 horsepower
• Improved efficiency across all engine options

Technology and Connectivity

2026 GLE Tech Advancements

The new model showcases the latest technology offerings:

• Available Hyperscreen display spanning the entire dashboard
• Next-generation MBUX system with enhanced voice control
• Augmented reality navigation with improved graphics and functionality
• Wireless smartphone integration and charging
• Enhanced “Hey Mercedes” virtual assistant with expanded capabilities
• Burmester 3D surround sound system with optimized acoustics
• Over-the-air update capability for continuous improvement
• Advanced driver profiles with fingerprint authentication
• USB-C ports throughout the cabin with faster charging capabilities

2025 GLE Technology Features

This model featured significant tech features:

• Dual 12.3-inch high-resolution displays
• MBUX infotainment system with voice control
• Augmented reality navigation overlay
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available Burmester sound system
• Multiple interface options, including touchscreen and touchpad
• Enhanced smartphone connectivity

2024 GLE Technology Updates

The facelift introduced:

• Updated MBUX interface with improved graphics and functionality
• New steering wheel with revised touch controls
• Enhanced driver assistance systems
• Improved voice control features
• Standard wireless charging
• Updated USB ports throughout the cabin

Safety and Driver Assistance

2026 Safety Features

The new model offers a comprehensive suite of safety systems:

• Enhanced Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control
• Active Steering Assist for semi-autonomous driving on highways
• Improved Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function
• Blind Spot Assist with exit warning function
• Evasive Steering Assist
• Pre-Safe Plus rear collision preparation system
• Active Lane Keeping Assist
• 360-degree camera system with enhanced resolution
• Available head-up display with augmented reality

2025 Safety Systems

This model featured robust safety technology:

• Similar suite of driver assistance technologies
• Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC
• Active Brake Assist
• Blind Spot Assist
• Standard 360-degree camera system
• Attention Assist driver monitoring

2024 Safety Updates

The facelift introduced:

• Updated driver assistance systems with improved sensors
• Enhanced sensitivity for collision avoidance
• Improved camera and radar systems
• Updated safety algorithms

Cargo Space and Practicality

2026 GLE Utility Features

The latest model maintains practical aspects:

• SUV models offer approximately 825 litres of cargo space behind the second row
• Folding the second row expands capacity to around 1,915 litres
• Seven-seat models provide approximately 630 litres behind the third row
• Coupe models provide slightly less space at about 655 litres with seats up
• Power-operated tailgate with hands-free operation
• 40/20/40 split-folding second row
• Available third-row seating in SUV models
• 3,500 kg maximum towing capacity

2025 and 2024 Model Practicality

Both the older models offered similar cargo dimensions and practical features, with only minor differences in interior storage solutions and organization.

Trim Levels and Models

2026 Model Range

The new model is available in multiple configurations:

• GLE 350 4MATIC: Entry-level model with 2.0L four-cylinder
• GLE 450 4MATIC: Mid-range model with 3.0L inline-six
• GLE 400e 4MATIC: Plug-in hybrid model
• GLE 580 4MATIC: V8-powered luxury variant
• AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+: Performance-oriented model
• AMG GLE 53 Hybrid 4MATIC+: High-performance hybrid
• AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+: High-performance flagship

Each is available with various packages, including:

• Premium Package
• AMG Line
• Night Package
• Exclusive Trim
• Driver Assistance Package

2025 Lineup

This model offered a similar lineup with the same core models, though with fewer optional packages and slightly different standard equipment distributions.

2024 Models

This lineup introduced the refreshed design and updated powertrains, setting the foundation for subsequent model years.

Off-Road Capability

All three model years feature:

• 4MATIC all-wheel drive
• Adjustable air suspension allowing increased ground clearance
• Available Off-Road Package with additional underbody protection
• Multiple terrain modes through the DYNAMIC SELECT system
• Hill descent control
• Optional E-Active Body Control suspension system

Which Model Year Offers the Best Value?

The differences between the GLE models represent an evolutionary approach rather than revolutionary overhaul. The first model year brought the most significant updates with its mid-cycle facelift, while the newer models have continued to refine the formula with incremental improvements to technology, performance, and luxury features.

The new model represents the most refined version with the available Hyperscreen technology, subtle design updates, and enhanced powertrain options. However, all three model years deliver the essential experience: a premium midsize SUV that balances luxury, technology, and performance in a versatile package.

For potential buyers, the choice between model years may come down to specific feature preferences, availability, and individual priorities regarding technology, performance, and design. Each model year keeps this luxury SUV at the forefront of the luxury midsize SUV segment.

*Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.*