2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Ford Explorer

A subtle refresh for the 2024 model year keeps Mercedes’ popular sport-utility competitive against a wide roster of rivals which include the BMW X5, Genesis GV70, Cadillac XT6, Acura MDX, and Volvo XC90, to name just a few.

Changes between the previous GLE-Class and the 2024 model year consist primarily of a subtle redesign of the front grille (look closely and you’ll see it's now filled with tiny Mercedes-Benz star logos), reprofiled headlights and taillights, an updated infotainment system, and optional off-road-themed air suspension system that can raise the GLE 1.2 inches to clear obstacles. It can also shimmy this Mercedes sport-ute back and forth to help get it unstuck over tricky terrain.

Specific to our testing purposes, the 2024 GLE-Class also ushers in a new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant called the GLE 450e 4Matic. As the last part of the name suggests, like every 2024 GLE, all-wheel drive is fitted as standard. Yet the big news is what’s under the hood of this new model, namely a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder paired with an electric motor and 23.3-kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

While fully-electrified vehicles presently grab the most automotive headlines, a week spent with the GLE 450e highlighted how easily this luxurious PHEV sport-utility adapts to all sorts of driving situations.

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