By: Joshua Lee
June 25, 2024
Plug-in hybrids seem to offer the best of both worlds for people who don’t want to go full EV yet. There won’t be range anxiety when the battery depletes because you can still rely on a relatively full gas tank to keep you going. It’s the EV range that we want in a plug-in hybrid, and the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE450e might be the new leader for the most range.
Mercedes-Benz Canada let us test the GLE450e for the week to see whether their PHEV is suitable for everyday needs. Powering the SUV is a combination of a 248-horsepower turbocharged 2.0L inline-four engine and a 134-horsepower electric motor for a combined 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. All GLE models come with Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel drive system and a nine-speed automatic transmission. The switch from electric to gas is seamless, and acceleration is no problem for this midsize SUV. While it is easy to drive, handling dynamics can be sharper as there is a good amount of body roll. The ride has been smooth and quiet, although the optional 21-inch wheels slightly impact the quality.
The GLE450e has various driving modes from its DYNAMIC SELECT system. The paddle shifters let you adjust the regenerative braking of the vehicle; it can be a little harsh with full regen, and it also doesn’t bring the vehicle to a full stop like one-pedal driving. In addition to the Off-Road mode, the GLE450e shows you various angle measurements and grade percentages. The “Transparent Hood” display is a neat feature that provides a virtual view of what’s underneath using the exterior cameras. The GLE450e can also tow up to 7,700 lbs (3,500 kg).
Our Mercedes-Benz GLE450e comes with a gorgeous Emerald Green Metallic paint finish and the optional AMG Line exterior package, which includes an upgraded brake system. Our model features illuminated brushed aluminum running boards, which we would recommend opting out of as they don’t offer much room for you to step on. We like the curvy styling of the GLE, and its new grille features little Mercedes stars, which add a unique touch to the AMG character. The optional Pinnacle Trim equips the GLE450e with a high-performance LED lighting system, animated Mercedes Star pattern logo projectors for the front doors, and soft-closing doors.
Our tester features a Macchiato Beige interior with Anthracite open-pore oak wood trim. Equipped with both Exclusive and Pinnacle trim packages, the GLE450e enhances interior comfort to its maximum. Multicontour front seats are heated, ventilated, and include massage functions. In colder weather, additional heating areas such as the front armrests and door panels will keep you cozy. An Air Balance System helps filter the air with dual filters and an ionizer. There’s even a special place in the glovebox for a Mercedes-curated fragrance vial.
The GLE450e can be daunting as it features a lot of tech. There is a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display and a 12.3-inch second-generation Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) touchscreen infotainment system. It took time to get used to the touch control buttons on the steering wheel and touchpad controller, as there are countless settings and menus to navigate. Luckily, MBUX makes it easy to control features in the vehicle with voice control. MBUX Interior Assistant responds to hand gestures from the driver or front passenger; however, we felt pretty silly as it works half of the time. The 13-speaker Burmester Surround Sound System, panoramic sunroof, and OTA updates are standard. Rear passengers get heated seats and lots of room to stretch out. There is 934L behind the 40/20/40 rear bench and it expands up to 2,123L when folded down. The GLE450e has a good amount of safety features, but adaptive cruise control is part of an optional $2,600 driver assistance package.
Fuel economy ratings for the GLE450e are 10.5Le/100KM city, and 9.1Le/100KM highway, for a combined 9.9Le/100KM. The PHEV carries a 23.3 kWh battery with an impressive 77KM of EV range. We’ve seen it go a little over 80 depending on how you drive. Charging the GLE450e with a 120V outlet takes a little over a day, and a level 2 charger takes under 3 hours from 10-100%. The GLE450e is capable of 60kW DC fast charging but will require you to pay extra for that feature. We’ve driven mostly in hybrid mode and reached 6.8L/100KM for our test.
At the time of testing, the GLE450e starts at $90,100; our tester comes with $12,530 worth of optional equipment, giving us a total of $102,630 before taxes and delivery.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE450e is a great luxury plug-in hybrid with impeccable EV range, performance, and comfort for everyday use. It also has the same starting price as the GLE450, which makes this PHEV more desirable. It’s worth considering with little to compromise.
