The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV started life as the M-Class—a midsize body-on-frame two-row SUV—but added an available third row and unibody construction in its second generation. It became the GLE in 2015, during its third generation, and it is now in its fourth generation, with its last redesign taking place in 2020. It competes with the BMW X5, the Audi Q7, and the Volvo XC90. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV is available in seven trim levels: GLE 350, GLE 350 4Matic, GLE 450 4Matic, GLE 450e 4Matic, GLE 580 4Matic, AMG GLE 53 4Matic+, and AMG GLE 63 S 4Matic+.
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Pricing, Specs, and Release Date
- What’s New for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
- Design
- Powertrain
- Interior
- Technology
- Safety
- Pricing and Release Date
- Further Research
What’s New for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV is not expected to receive any significant updates for the 2026 model year. Even though the last redesign was in 2020, it was significantlt refreshed in 2024, with the addition of the GLE 450e 4Matic PHEV model, an new infotainment system, and some design tweaks. The 2025 model year also saw relatively minor updates, with a new base front-wheel-drive model, a fingerprint sensor, and new exterior paint colors.
Design
The GLE-Class SUV has an austere, upright stance, which is in line with the other SUVs in the Mercedes lineup. Changes to the headlights and the grille from 2024 made the front end bolder and more modern, while non-AMG trims offer both AMG and Night packages with special wheels and trim. Illuminated running boards and an illuminated star front emblem are also available on all trims. The GLE-Class has 19-inch wheels as standard, but 20- and 21-inch wheels are available. AMG models are fitted with 20-inch wheels as standard, and 21- and 22-inch wheels are available.
Powertrain
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV has a multitude of powertrain options, starting with the GLE 350, which has a base 255-horsepower 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine with a mild hybrid drive system. The GLE 450 has a 375-hp 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbo, also with the mild hybrid drive system, while the GLE 450e offers the 2.0-liter engine paired with a plug-in hybrid system, delivering 381 hp. Then you have the GLE 580 that goes all-in with a 510-hp 4.0-liter biturbo V8 with the mild hybrid system. The AMG-enhanced GLE 53 and GLE 63 get a 429-hp 3.0-liter inline-six and 603-hp 4.0-liter V8, respectively. The only rear-wheel-drive model in the lineup is the base GLE 350, while 4Matic models are all-wheel drive. The PHEV GLE 450e is the most fuel efficient, with up to 50 miles of all-electric range, delivering 60 MPGe. The RWD GLE 350 gets 23 mpg in combined driving, with the 4Matic getting 22 mpg. The GLE 450, the GLE 580, the GLE 53, and the GLE 63 get 21 mpg, 17 mpg, 20 mpg, and 16 mpg, respectively. Most GLE SUVs have a maximum towing rating of 7,700 pounds when equipped with the optional trailer hitch.
Interior
The GLE-Class is a five-passenger vehicle as standard, but it's available with a third row with space for two more passengers. The dash is punctuated by a digital cluster and a large infotainment screen, but there are still physical controls for the HVAC system. Synthetic leather seats are standard, and real leather is available. A basic sunroof is standard and a panoramic roof is available. If you’re looking for a little extra, the GLE-Class SUV offers an AMG Line Interior option with sporty accents and seats, plus a Manufktur Signature Interior Package chock full of luxury finishing touches and details. The GLE SUV offers 33.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and up to 74.9 cubic feet behind the first row.
Technology
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV has a whole host of tech features as standard, including a power liftgate, dual 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and the gauge cluster, navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, dual-zone climate controls, and LED headlights. Available tech features include ventilated front seats, a premium Burmester surround-sound audio system, heated-and-cooled cupholders, front seat massagers, a head-up display, four-zone climate controls, power soft-closing doors, and heated rear seats.
