In 1997, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, the direct ancestor of the modern GLE, was a pioneer in the premium SUV segment. Fast-forward to now, and the German automaker is doubling down on that legacy with an updated GLE that blends its longstanding history with what you might describe as digital or connected intelligence.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE arrives with approximately 3,000 new or revised components, and while that means it’s far from a cosmetic facelift or one-off refresh, the headlines aren’t just about hardware. This latest version of the GLE marks the debut of the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), a proprietary supercomputer that utilizes artificial intelligence and cloud connectivity to transform the vehicle into a digital companion.

Whether you are navigating rough terrain or leading a team meeting from the driver’s seat (literally, you can!), the new GLE aims to be the most capable three-row luxury SUV on the market.

Four robust powertrains

V8 receives a notable power jump

Mercedes-Benz has overhauled the GLE’s engine lineup, focusing on responsiveness and future-proofing for emissions standards. Every model now features some form of electrification, primarily through the updated Integrated Starter Generator (listed as “ISG 2.0” by Mercedes-Benz). This 48-volt system enables coasting with the engine off, enhances acceleration, and makes the start-stop transition more seamless.

Here are the four powertrain configurations at a glance. Each include fleece insulation for the driveshaft tunnel and an engine cover to absorb high-frequency combustion noises.

• GLE 350 4MATIC: Features an improved M254 EVO four-cylinder with an electric compressor for better low-end punch. The two-liter engine produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque.

• GLE 450 4MATIC: Signature inline six-cylinder now produces 375 horsepower and 413 lb-ft. of torque, aided by a new electric auxiliary compressor and optimized intake/exhaust ports.

• GLE 580 4MATIC: Top-tier V8 sees a power jump to 530 horsepower and 553 lb-ft. of torque. Notably, it now uses a “flat-plane” crankshaft (similar to high-performance supercars) for smoother power delivery and better efficiency. Mercedes-Benz engineers also redesigned the compressor wheel and housing of the exhaust gas turbocharger.

• GLE 500e 4MATIC (Plug-in Hybrid): PHEV is now based on the refined six-cylinder engine, offering a significant 74-horsepower increase over the previous four-cylinder hybrid. Combined system output is 429 horsepower and 502 lb-ft. of torque. Even with its incredible power output, it returns 106 km (approximately 65 miles) of all-electric range according to the WLTP cycle.

Base Trim Engine

2.0L Turbo Inline-4

Base Trim Transmission

9-speed automatic

Base Trim Drivetrain

All-Wheel Drive

Cloud-based damper control

Real-time vehicle-to-X communication

The GLE has always been known for its ride quality, but the 2027 model introduces technology that effectively allows it to “see” the road.

For example, the standard air suspension now features a Mercedes-Benz innovation called cloud-based damper control, the first of its kind in the world. Using Vehicle-to-Everything communication, the 2027 GLE receives anonymized data from other Mercedes-Benz vehicles. If a Mercedes ahead hits a pothole or bump, that information is sent to the cloud; then your GLE pre-adjusts its damping before you reach it.

Meanwhile, the optional E-Active Body Control system of GLE 580 4MATIC analyzes the road at a rate of 1,000 times per second, controlling each wheel’s spring and damper forces individually before a bump. It even includes a free-wheeling mode for off-roading. If you get stuck, the 2027 GLE can automatically pump the suspension up and down, rocking the SUV to improve traction and help it “hop” out of whatever it’s stuck in.

In a similar vein, the transparent hood feature uses the 360-degree camera system to show a view of what is directly under the GLE on the center display. This allows drivers to see rocks, stumps, or other obstacles that would otherwise be hidden by the engine bay.

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MBUX superscreen and video conferencing

“I think you’re on mute”

Inside, the GLE is dominated by the MBUX Superscreen, a large (for lack of a better word!) glass surface housing three 12.3-inch displays. While the driver focuses on the road, the front passenger can stream content from Disney+, YouTube, or Sony RIDEVU.

The voice control system now utilizes AI from Microsoft, Google, and ChatGPT. Described as a multi-agent approach by Mercedes-Benz, the AI assistant can have more in-depth conversations with the driver and occupants. Owners can even choose the AI assistant’s personality, be it a classic Mercedes-Benz star or a futuristic human-like avatar.

Perhaps the most helpful addition for working on the road is video conferencing capability. Using the in-vehicle app store, drivers can download the Meetings for Teams app. While the GLE is in motion, the camera can be activated so other meeting participants can see the driver. However, to prevent distractions, drivers cannot see shared slides or other participants’ video feeds.

Away from the office, the GLE remains as versatile as ever for families, with an optional third-row seat. Access is made easier via a button that slides the second row forward. Cargo space, one of the most important metrics for a luxury SUV, is 22.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 29 cubic feet when the third row is folded. Folding the second and third rows will yield up to 72.6 cubic feet of space.

A luxury SUV with excellent air quality

With a blend of V8 power and convenient tech features, the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE is a solid option for those looking for a three-row luxury SUV.

Those who have to constantly fight their sinuses will also appreciate how the 2027 GLE uses a multi-stage electric filter and PM2.5 sensors to monitor air quality and refresh the cabin air every 90 seconds. If the sensors detect high levels of dust or carbon monoxide outside, the system automatically switches to recirculation.

At the time of this writing, Mercedes-Benz has not yet released the official starting MSRP for the 2027 GLE.

The current 2026 GLE 350 starts around $62,250, while the V8-powered GLE 580 sits closer to $90,000. Given the upgrades across the 2027 GLE lineup, expect a slight bump in the base price, likely starting in the $64,000 to $65,000 range.