Overview
The 2027 GLE500e is the plug-in hybrid companion to the Mercedes-Benz GLE450 SUV, and it adds a bunch of electric driving range to an already premium package. A turbocharged inline-six and an electric motor offer up 429 horsepower and an expected electric driving range of 50 miles or more.
Other than its electrified powertrain, the GLE500e is pretty much identical to the nonhybrid GLE models, offering a spacious two-row interior with plenty of amenities. The dashboard is covered in screens, including a separate touchscreen for the front passenger, and there’s a plethora of tech features that will keep cutting-edge customers happy.
Expert Tip: If you want your PHEV Mercedes SUV with a little more punch, consider the 2027 Mercedes-AMG GLE53 (reviewed separately), as the powertrain is tuned up to 577 horsepower.
What’s New for 2027?
The GLE-class hybrid has been refreshed for 2027 with some updated grille and exterior lighting designs. The hybrid powertrain is also new for 2027, and it makes 48 horsepower more than the 2026 model. That has resulted in a name change to GLE500e from last year’s GLE450e.
What’s Your Car Worth?
Car and Driver calculates your car’s value in three free and easy steps – using the same Black Book® data dealers use to appraise vehicles.
Get your trade-in valuePricing and Which One to Buy
Mercedes hasn’t announced pricing or trim levels for the 2027 GLE500e yet, but we expect to see mid-level Exclusive and top-spec Pinnacle models in addition to the base trim. When we find out more about how each one will be equipped and how much they will cost, we’ll update this story with details and make a recommendation.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance Hybrid Powertrain: Turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder and one electric motor, 429 hp combined Transmission: 9-speed automatic Drivetrain: all-wheel drive
A turbocharged inline-six combines with an electric motor to pump out a stout 429 horsepower. A nine-speed automatic transmission is standard, and all models come with all-wheel drive. Acceleration should be brisk, but we haven’t test-driven the GLE500e yet. When we do, we’ll update this story with driving impressions and instrumented test results.
Additional Research0–60-MPH Times Claimed 60-mph Time: 5.5 seconds
In Comparison: Mercedes’s claimed 60 mph time is likely very conservative, given that the less powerful GLE450e we tested back in 2024 did it in 5.3 seconds.
Towing and Payload Capacity
When equipped with an optional trailer hitch, the GLE500e can tow up to 7700 pounds.
In Comparison: The Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid can tow slightly more at a maximum of 7716 pounds, but the X5 xDrive50e is only rated for up to 6603 pounds.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life Estimated EV Range: 56 miles
Based on Europe’s WLTP 106-kilometer electric range, we expect the EPA rating for the GLE500e to come in at around 56 miles per charge.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
First Row: The GLE500e’s cabin delivers much the same luxury experience as the rest of the GLE lineup, with premium materials on every surface and plenty of comfort and convenience features. All models come with heated front seats with power adjustments and memory settings. Dual-zone automatic climate control, a power sunroof, ambient interior lighting, and a hands-free power liftgate are all included, too. There are plenty of upholstery color options, rendered in either faux or genuine leather hides.
Second Row: While the nonhybrid GLE models can be had with an optional third row of seats, the GLE500e is strictly a two-row affair, presumably to help make room for the hybrid system’s battery pack.
Cargo Capacity: There’s a 22-cubic-foot cargo hold behind the GLE500e’s rear seat. When we get a chance, we’ll stuff the GLE500e with our carry-on suitcases and update this story with test results.
Infotainment and Connectivity Infotainment: 12.3-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch passenger touchscreen Connectivity: Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Audio System: 8-speaker stereo (standard), 15-speaker Burmester stereo (optional)
The GLE-class’s dashboard is a veritable riot of screens. A 12.3-inch digital gauge display, a 12.3-inch central infotainment touchscreen, and a 12.3-inch passenger’s touchscreen are all standard and set into the dash behind a single pane of glass that stretches from door-to-door. A touchpad on the center console allows for tactile interaction with the infotainment system, and the central and passenger screens are also touch-sensitive.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, are all standard, which makes it a little easier to keep up with calls, texts, and other communication while on the move. An eight-speaker stereo is the base audio system, but a 15-speaker Burmester setup is an optional extra.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Whereas BMW and Volvo include three years of maintenance in the price of any new X5 or XC90, Mercedes offers zero complimentary maintenance. As far as warranty policies go, the GLE’s standard offerings are among the most basic in the luxury-car marketplace.
Limited Warranty: four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain Warranty: four years or 50,000 miles Electric Component Warranty: eight years or 100,000 miles Complimentary Maintenance: noneAs more information becomes available, we’ll update this story with more details about: Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG Safety and Driver-Assistance Features C/D Test Results and Specs
