The updated 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE range has gained a new plug-in hybrid option in Australia for the first time, with the GLE 450 e 4Matic now available to order in both traditional SUV and sportier coupe bodystyles. Prices start from $156,900 plus on-road costs for the former and $160,900 +ORC for the latter.

Under the bonnet is a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 135kW electric motor, producing combined outputs of 320kW and 680Nm. Grunt is delivered to all four wheels through Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system and a nine-speed automatic transmission, allowing for a claimed 0-100km/h run in just 5.6 seconds.

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A 25.7kWh battery provides a WLTP-rated electric driving range of up to 87km for the SUV and 91km for the more aerodynamic coupe, covering most Australian’s commutes. Both models can travel at speeds of up to 140km/h using electric power alone, while 11kW AC charging is standard and an optional 60kW DC charging system is available for an additional $1100. Ticking that box allows for a 10-80 per cent charge time of as little as 29 minutes.

The arrival of the new 450 e variant coincides with the wider GLE range’s recent facelift, which introduced revised front and rear styling, updated LED lighting signatures and an illuminated grille featuring the Mercedes-Benz star.

Both plug-in hybrid variants feature AMG Line exterior styling and the Night Package as standard, adding darkened exterior detailing and larger alloy wheels – the SUV rides on 20-inchers, while the coupe receives larger 21-inch alloys.

Inside, the biggest change is the introduction of the latest ‘MBUX Superscreen’, which combines three 12.3-inch displays beneath a single glass panel on the dashboard. The system runs Mercedes-Benz’s latest ‘MB.OS’ software with over-the-air updates and a range of connected features.

Other standard equipment includes heated front seats, a head-up display, a Burmester 3D surround sound system, keyless entry and a 360-degree camera, alongside the latest ‘MB.Drive’ driver assistance technology.

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Buyers can also select optional equipment including ‘air suspension for $3800, an Interior Comfort Package with climatised front seats with more electric adjustment, a heated steering wheel and inbuilt washers in the wiper blades for $5600 and a $3000 tow bar package, which increases braked towing capacity to 3500kg when combined with the air suspension option.

2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE pricing (excluding on-road costs):

  • GLE 350 d: $142,300
  • GLE 450 e: $156,900
  • GLE 450 e Coupe: $160,900
  • AMG GLE 53: $187,900
  • AMG GLE 53 Coupe: $187,900
  • AMG GLE 63 S: $277,900
  • AMG GLE 63 S Coupe: $279,900

The new GLE 450 e SUV and coupe are on sale in Australia from today with local deliveries due to commence soon.