It’s hard to imagine that the fourth-generation W167 Mercedes-Benz GLE is already five years old, so in timely fashion, Mercedes-Benz has given its midsized premium SUV a salvo of design, equipment and technological updates to keep it ahead of its rivals.

The big news is that the entire model range, including the Mercedes-AMG variants, are now electrified. The 2023 GLE introduces a range of new diesel models with 48-volt system and new plug-in hybrids.

Alongside, the new GLE also has been peppered with some exterior and interior updates as well as a new MBUX infotainment system that is smarter than ever. Here are 21 photos to get you up to speed on the 2023 facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLE.

Powertrains

At the outset, Mercedes-Benz has announced an entirely electrified powertrain range for the 2023 GLE, made up of 3 (fourth generation) plug-in hybrids (PHEV) and 2 mild-hybrid (MHEV) variants, the latter featuring 48-volt Integrated Starter Generator (ISG).

The five variants are:

• GLE 450 4MATIC (MHEV): 281 PS / 500 Nm (+20 PS boost)
• GLE 300 d 4MATIC (MHEV): 260 PS / 550 Nm (+20 PS boost)
• GLE 450 d 4MATIC (MHEV): 367 PS / 750 Nm (+20 PS boost)
• GLE 400 e 4MATIC (PHEV): 380 PS / 600 Nm
• GLE 350 de 4MATIC (PHEV): 333 PS / 750 Nm

PHEV models feature an 11 kW onboard charger and can be optionally offered with a 60 kW DC fast charger.

Also read: Ratings: 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Line - When you must show who's boss

There are two Mercedes-AMG variants, namely the 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged GLE 53 4MATIC+ and 4.0-litre V8 bi-turbo GLE 63 S 4MATIC+.

Power and performance numbers are as follows:

• GLE 53 4MATIC+: 435 PS / 560 Nm (0-100 km/h: 5.0 seconds, top speed 250 km/h)
• GLE 63 S 4MATIC+: 612 PS / 850 Nm (0-100 km/h: 3.9 seconds, top speed 280 km/h)

The 2023 GLE 53 outputs an extra 40 Nm now thanks to a software update and larger turbochargers, which also helps it accelerate to 100 km/h 0.3 seconds quicker than before.

Both AMG engines are likewise electrified with an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) and a 48-volt electrical system.

Exterior

Upfront the 2023 GLE features a redesigned front bumper and grille which horizontal louvres with chrome inserts. The outer air intakes have also been given a horizontal chrome fin.

Also read: Review: 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 – Opulence that makes you forget about its rivals

The 2023 GLE also receives redesigned headlamps with standard LED headlamps, seen above is the optional Multibeam LED with four light points.

At the back, the revised taillamps now feature a new signature, featuring two horizontal light blocks.

The 2023 also receives a new colour, Soladite Blue Metallic, and two new wheel designs in 19- and 20-inch sizes respectively.

The 2023 GLE 53 also carries the updated headlights but features a revised front apron with ‘jet wing’ shaped air intakes.

The front fascia now also bears the AMG emblem instead of the Mercedes star. The GLE 63 models also get a newly designed 22-inch wheel package.

Interior

On the inside, the 2023 GLE features the latest generation steering wheel with sensor surfaces on the horizontal spokes to control infotainment and instrument cluster functions.

Another eye-catching feature in the interior is the chrome bezel of the AC vents, same as on the Mercedes-Maybach GLS.

Aside from this, the 2023 GLE also receives some new interior trim packages, inclusive options from the exclusive Manufaktur catalogue. Such as those offered on the S-Class.

The premium Burmester audio system now also features the personal sound setup as well as the Dolby Atmos immersive audio experience.

Optionally offered is a 590W Burmester surround sound system with 13 speakers and 13 separate amplifier channels.

Equipment

The 2023 GLE now gets the bang-up-to-date second generation MBUX infotainment system, which crucially allows touch control of the central screen, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.

Another cool MBUX Smart Home feature which allows users to control smart home appliances – such as lights and air-conditioning – directly from the 2023 GLE. The system communicates using WLAN connectivity through the Mercedes Me app.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE will be produced at the company’s Tuscaloosa plant in Alabama, USA and is slated to reach dealers in Europe starting July 2023.