Mercedes-Benz continues to advance its lineup with significant updates to its luxury vehicles, focusing on electrification and performance enhancements. For the 2027 model year, the GLE-Class SUV receives extensive upgrades, including over 3,000 new or revised parts, while the all-electric EQE SUV arrives with a strong focus on range and technology.
The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, first introduced in 2018, has been refreshed rather than replaced by a new generation. The update brings a revised engine range with notable improvements. At the top of the lineup is a new flat-plane crank V8 engine in the GLE580 4Matic, delivering 530 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. This engine complies with upcoming European emission standards, ensuring its availability in those markets.
Six-cylinder models now offer increased torque, reaching 413 pound-feet. A new plug-in hybrid variant combines the six-cylinder engine with an electric motor, boosting output by 74 horsepower compared to its four-cylinder plug-in predecessor. The AMG GLE53 Hybrid performance model stands out with a combined system output of 577 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, accelerating from zero to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds—half a second faster than before. This AMG plug-in hybrid supports 60-kW DC fast charging and features enhancements like a transfer case for better off-road capability and a water-cooled processor to support advanced driver assistance systems.
Visually, the updated GLE sports a redesigned front grille featuring metallic three-pointed stars and an illuminated central badge. The headlight and taillight designs also reflect the iconic star motif seen across Mercedes models. Inside, the cabin includes a full-length “Superscreen” spanning from the driver’s display to a smaller passenger screen. New interior color options such as Birch Brown and red-black two-tone are available alongside various wood and aluminum trims. Physical controls have returned to the steering wheel for adaptive cruise control and volume adjustment. Buyers can choose between the traditional SUV shape or a coupe body style, with AMG variants offered in both.
On the electric front, Mercedes-Benz introduces the 2026 EQE SUV as part of its growing EQ lineup dedicated to all-electric vehicles. The EQE SUV features a synchronous electric motor producing up to 315 horsepower in its standard form, paired with a 90.5-kWh lithium-ion battery that offers an estimated range of 253 to 300 miles depending on driving conditions.
Charging capabilities include a 170-kW DC fast charger that can recharge the battery from 10% to 80% in just over half an hour. For home charging, a standard 220-volt outlet with the vehicle’s onboard charger can fully charge the battery overnight in approximately 11.5 hours. The all-wheel-drive powertrain enables acceleration from zero to 60 mph in around 6.2 seconds, while an AMG sport-tuned version delivers a much quicker time of 3.4 seconds with a powerful 677-horsepower motor.
The EQE SUV integrates advanced technology such as the MBUX Multimedia System with dual displays—a large portrait-oriented touchscreen for controls and a driver display—along with features like fingerprint authentication for user profiles and active range monitoring that guides drivers to charging stations when needed. Although it lacks full massage seats due to power consumption concerns, heated front seats are included. Voice activation supports both Mercedes’ onboard intelligence and Apple CarPlay integration.
While Mercedes-Benz pushes forward with electrification and performance innovations, some critics note that the EQE SUV’s design is less distinctive compared to other models in the brand’s lineup, described as caught between an oversized hatchback and sedan shape. Despite this, it offers reliable performance and luxury comforts expected from Mercedes-Benz.
These updates demonstrate Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to blending traditional luxury with modern electrification trends, catering to diverse customer preferences ranging from high-performance hybrids to fully electric SUVs.
