- The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class range is being updated, likely for the 2027 model year
- A GLE 53 prototype is out testing with light camouflage
- The updated GLE 53 is likely to stick with an electrified 6-cylinder engine
Mercedes-Benz is in the midst of developing an update for its GLE-Class range, and a prototype for the updated version of the AMG GLE 53 Coupe has been spotted again.
Also out testing are prototypes for the regular GLE-Class and regular GLE-Class Coupe, plus the high-performance AMG GLE 63.
The updated range is expected to start sales in 2026, meaning they will likely arrive as 2027 models in the U.S.
This will actually be the second update for the GLE-Class. The current range originally arrived for the 2020 model year and was given its first update for 2024.
2027 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 53 facelift spy shots – Photo via Baldauf
Mercedes doesn’t typically update its vehicles more than once during a product cycle but the second update will help keep the GLE-Class fresh for longer, as Mercedes plans to keep some of its current gas vehicles on sale for longer than originally planned. The larger GLS-Class is also set to receive a second update to extend its product cycle, and the current S-Class is also expected to have a stretched shelf life.
The reason is slower than expected demand for electric vehicles. Mercedes was planning to go the fully electric route by 2030 in most markets, but by early 2024 the automaker had already abandoned the plan, stating at the time that it will keep selling vehicles with gas engines well beyond the 2030 deadline. Keeping current gas-powered models on sale for longer will buy the automaker time to wait and see how the EV market develops, and potentially prepare previously unplanned successors for some of its gas models.
For the updated GLE-Class and GLE-Class Coupe, including the GLE 53 variant, camouflage gear on the prototypes point to new designs for the lights, fascias, and front grille. Parts of the interior were also concealed, like the steering wheel and infotainment screen. These items should also be renewed as part of the update.
It isn’t clear what Mercedes has planned for the mechanical components with the update, although the automaker has already confirmed that the GLE 53 and GLE 53 Coupe will receive a new plug-in hybrid powertrain for the 2026 model year in the U.S., instead of the current mild-hybrid setup. The new plug-in hybrid powertrain will combine a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 with an electric motor for a total of 536 hp. This powertrain should carry over unchanged for the updated GLE 53 and GLE 53 Coupe.
