The Mercedes-Benz GLE facelift has just been revealed and will be launching in SA in 2027. Here’s a first look at the changes.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is a luxury big SUV pitched as an alternative to the BMW X5, Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne and Lexus RX. Powered by a choice of either petrol or diesel engines, there’s a GLE to suit all needs and tastes. Lets not forget about the high-performance AMG derivatives either.
For model year 2027, Mercedes-Benz has facelifted its GLE range again, with the brand claiming around 3000 new or revised components. Visually, the front gets a bold new illuminated grille with Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star logo LED daytime running lights, with the rear getting a similar treatment. The Mercedes-Benz GLE facelift will also be available in coupe body style.
Powertrains
There are updated engines with the 450 4Matic now featuring an increase in torque thanks to a more potent electric auxiliary compressor, revised cylinder head ports and so on. With 560 Newtons from its 3.0-litre 6-cylinder, this petrol-powered derivative should be pretty brisk.
The diesel engine range 350d and 450d now gain an electric heating catalyst meaning they get up to optimum temperature quicker. There’s a new flatplane crank 4.0 V8 mild-hybrid powertrain too, offering up 395 kW and 750 Nm, badged as GLE 580. The previous iteration offered up 380 kW and 730 Nm.
Of course, there will be some AMG derivatives, but right now there’s just the GLE 53 which features a 3.0-litre 6-cylinder turbocharged hybrid petrol engine making 330 kW + 17 kW and 600 Nm. Mercedes-AMG reckons 0-100 kph is dispatched in just 4.8 seconds. Expect some monster V8 engines in the near future.
Interior
The biggest change to the interior is the addition of the MB.OS operating system which controls every aspect of the vehicle. Merc says its system can “understand, anticipate and evolve with its driver” and is connected to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud. There are new trim colours and materials available for the cabin too.
You can expect the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE to hit South African showrooms in 2027.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price of the Mercedes-Benz GLE in South Africa?
As of April 2026, the Mercedes-Benz GLE range starts at approximately R1,853,165 for the GLE 300d 4Matic. The mid-range GLE 450d 4Matic is priced from R2,070,498, while the high-performance Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4Matic+ reaches over R4,500,000.
What are the engine options for the GLE in SA?
South African buyers can choose from several 4Matic all-wheel-drive powertrains: the 300d (198 kW diesel), the 450 (280 kW petrol), the 450d (270 kW diesel), and the performance-focused AMG 53 and AMG 63 S variants.
What is the fuel consumption of the Mercedes-Benz GLE?
The most fuel-efficient model is the GLE 300d, with a claimed average consumption of 6.8 L/100 km. The GLE 450 petrol averages around 9.5 L/100 km, while the AMG 63 S can consume up to 13.0 L/100 km depending on driving conditions.
What warranty and maintenance plan is included?
All new Mercedes-Benz GLE models in South Africa are sold with a 5-year/100,000 km PremiumDrive maintenance plan and a 2-year/unlimited km manufacturer’s warranty as standard.
Can the Mercedes-Benz GLE seat seven people?
Yes, while the GLE is standard as a 5-seater, it is available with an optional third row that increases seating capacity to seven. This package also includes electric adjustment for the second-row seats.
