We’ve been spying on the GLE facelift since late 2021, but it’s only now that Mercedes is finally ready to talk about when the mid-cycle update will be released. The three-pointed star took to social media to announce the mid-size luxury SUV will open on January 31. Judging by the adjacent shadow images, it will be a double reveal as the German premium brand intends to showcase a conventionally shaped model alongside its “coupe” sibling.
A number of spy shots strongly suggest Mercedes isn’t going to rock the boat with the GLE revision. Expect slightly revamped bumpers and new graphics for the headlights and taillights, while new body colors and wheel designs are likely to be on the menu as well. As for the interior, the prototype looks with the same side-by-side screens, so we’re not expecting the latest MBUX layout with the Hyperscreen dominating the center console.
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The jury is still out on whether Mercedes plans to introduce an AMG version as well. The sporty 53 and 63 derivatives will battle the BMW X5/X6 M60i and facelifted M models slated for break cover next month. Talking about the different versions, let us not forget that the GLE is also offered in India with a long wheelbase configuration, but the elongated variant may be updated at a later date.
The fourth-generation GLE launched in Fall 2018, so the time is right to make a change. Spy shots have shown the larger GLS will also receive a bite and tuck, possibly before the end of this year. Much like the GLE, the full-size luxury SUV will see slight changes.
In fact, the recent facelift of the compact car has also brought discreet modifications as Mercedes channels more of its budget into funding the EV push. To that end, we’ll be seeing the Maybach EQS SUV soon while electric alternatives for the CLA, C-Class, and G-Class are also being worked on.
