2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE is a 530-hp video conferencing suite
In 1997, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, the direct ancestor of the modern GLE, was a pioneer in the premium SUV segment. Fast forward to now, and the German automaker is doubling down on that heritage with an updated GLE that blends its long history with what you might describe as digital or connected intelligence.
The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE arrives with around 3,000 new or revised components, and while that means it’s far from a cosmetic facelift or one-off refresh, the headlines aren’t just about the hardware. This latest version of the GLE marks the debut of the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), a proprietary supercomputer that uses artificial intelligence and cloud connectivity to transform the vehicle into a digital companion.
Whether you’re navigating rugged terrain or leading a team meeting from the driver’s seat (literally, you can!), the new GLE aims to be the most capable three-row luxury SUV on the market.
Four robust powertrains
The V8 receives a notable power increase
Mercedes-Benz has overhauled the GLE’s engine lineup, focusing on responsiveness and future-proofing emissions standards. Every model now has some form of electrification, mainly thanks to the updated integrated starter-generator (listed as “ISG 2.0” by Mercedes-Benz). This 48-volt system allows coasting with the engine off, improves acceleration and makes the start/stop transition smoother.
Here are the four powertrain configurations at a glance. Each includes fleece insulation for the driveshaft tunnel and an engine cover to absorb high-frequency combustion noise.
- GLE 350 4MATIC: Features an upgraded M254 EVO four-cylinder with an electric supercharger for better low-end punch. The two-liter engine produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque.
- GLE 450 4MATIC: The Signature inline-six now produces 375 horsepower and 413 lb.-ft. of torque, aided by a new electric auxiliary compressor and optimized intake/exhaust ports.
- GLE 580 4MATIC: The top-of-the-line V8 sees its power increase to 530 horsepower and 553 lb-ft. of torque. Notably, it now uses a “flat plane” crankshaft (similar to high-performance supercars) for smoother power delivery and better efficiency. Mercedes-Benz engineers also redesigned the compressor wheel and the exhaust turbocharger housing.
- GLE 500e 4MATIC (plug-in hybrid): The PHEV is now based on the refined six-cylinder engine, offering a significant increase of 74 horsepower over the previous four-cylinder hybrid. Combined system output is 429 horsepower and 502 lb-ft. of torque. Even with its incredible power, it offers 106 km (around 65 miles) of all-electric range on the WLTP cycle.
- Base trim motor
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2.0L Turbo I-4
- Base Trim Transmission
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9-speed automatic
- Basic transmission
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All-wheel drive
Cloud-based damper control
Real-time vehicle-X communication
The GLE has always been known for its ride quality, but the 2027 model introduces technology that allows it to actually “see” the road.
For example, the standard air suspension now features a Mercedes-Benz innovation called cloud-based damper control, the first of its kind in the world. Using vehicle-to-everything communication, the GLE 2027 receives anonymized data from other Mercedes-Benz vehicles. If a Mercedes ahead hits a pothole or bump, this information is sent to the cloud; then your GLE pre-adjusts its damping before you reach it.
Meanwhile, the GLE 580 4MATIC’s optional E-Active Body Control system analyzes the road at a frequency of 1,000 times per second, controlling the forces of each wheel’s springs and shock absorbers individually before a bump. It even includes a freewheel mode for off-roading. If you get stuck, the 2027 GLE can automatically pump the suspension up and down, rocking the SUV to improve traction and help it “jump” out of whatever it’s stuck in.
Along the same lines, the see-through hood feature uses the 360-degree camera system to display a view of what’s directly beneath the GLE on the center screen. This allows drivers to see rocks, stumps or other obstacles that would otherwise be hidden by the engine compartment.
This Mercedes-Benz is one of the cheapest luxury SUVs in 2026
A Mercedes badge without the usual sticker shock.
MBUX superscreen and videoconferencing
“I think you’re on mute”
Inside, the GLE is dominated by the MBUX Superscreen, a large expanse of glass (for lack of a better word!) housing three 12.3-inch screens. While the driver concentrates on the road, the front passenger can stream content from Disney+, YouTube or Sony RIDEVU.
The voice control system now uses AI from Microsoft, Google and ChatGPT. Described as a multi-agent approach by Mercedes-Benz, the AI assistant can have deeper conversations with the driver and occupants. Owners can even choose the personality of the AI assistant, whether it’s a classic Mercedes-Benz star or a futuristic human-like avatar.
Perhaps the most useful addition for working on the go is the video conferencing capability. Using the in-vehicle app store, drivers can download the Meetings for Teams app. While the GLE is moving, the camera can be activated so that other meeting participants can see the driver. However, to avoid distraction, drivers cannot view shared slides or video feeds of other participants.
Away from the office, the GLE remains more versatile than ever for families, with an optional third-row seat. Access is made easier via a button that slides the second row forward. Cargo space, one of the most important measurements for a luxury SUV, is 22.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 29 cubic feet when the third row is folded. Folding the second and third rows gives you up to 72.6 cubic feet of space.
A luxury SUV with excellent air quality
With a blend of V8 power and convenient tech features, the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE is a solid option for those looking for a three-row luxury SUV.
Those who constantly have to battle their sinuses will also appreciate how the 2027 GLE uses a multi-stage power filter and PM2.5 sensors to monitor air quality and refresh the cabin air every 90 seconds. If sensors detect high levels of dust or carbon monoxide outdoors, the system automatically switches to recirculation.
As of this writing, Mercedes-Benz has yet to release the official starting MSRP for the 2027 GLE.
The current 2026 GLE 350 starts at around $62,250, while the V8-powered GLE 580 comes in closer to $90,000. Given the improvements to the 2027 GLE lineup, expect a slight increase in base price, likely starting between $64,000 and $65,000.
