2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE Gets Plug-in Hybrid Variant in Canada, Too
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE is beautifully updated and continues to offer plenty of selection. We initially feared the plug-in hybrid variant was going to be exclusive to Europe and the U.S., but the German automaker today announced that it will be available in the Canadian market, as well.
That’s great news for customers in a segment where the BMW X5, Porsche Cayenne, Range Rover Sport and Volvo XC90 all come with this type of fuel-efficient powertrain already.
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Based on a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the 2024 GLE 450e 4MATIC adds a permanently excited, synchronous electric motor for a combined system output of up to 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft. of torque. It can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds, which is fairly quick given its size and weight.
The Hybrid drive mode enables electric driving in the most appropriate situations, for example during city driving. Thanks to an Off-Road drive mode, the plug-in hybrid can also drive electrically away from the pavement. Alas, zero-emission range is not specified at this time.
What we can tell you is that the high-voltage battery has a capacity of 23.3 kWh. It is mated to an 11kW AC and 60kW DC on-board charger.
Other standard features include a new multifunction steering wheel with capacitive controls, second generation of Mercedes MBUX infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, MBUX Navigation Premium, updated Burmester surround sound system with Dolby Atmos, adaptive high beam assist, heated rear seats, 360-degree camera and a new transparent hood.
Wait, what? No, the engine hood isn’t really transparent, but it sure looks like it when viewed on the centre display in Off-Road mode. The various cameras combine to provide a virtual view under the front of the vehicle, including the front wheels and their steering position, helping drivers recognize obstacles along the way.
The GLE 450e 4MATIC will also be available in three equipment trims—Premium (standard), Exclusive and Pinnacle—plus an AMG Line for the interior and exterior, and a Night package for the exterior.
Units will start to arrive in Canadian dealerships this fall, with pricing to be announced closer to launch. The GLE 450e 4MATIC will become the second plug-in hybrid in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, joining the S 580e large sedan that hit the market earlier this year.
UPDATE: The high-performance Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 HYBRID, available as an SUV or Coupe, will arrive at Canadian dealerships in early 2026 with 536 horsepower and 0-100 km/h sprints in 4.7 seconds.