Mercedes-Benz GLE PHEV

Model Overview

The Mercedes-Benz GLE PHEV is the plug-in hybrid variant of the brand’s mid-to-large luxury SUV, the GLE. Serving as the core pillar of the Mercedes-Benz SUV line-up, it sits squarely between the GLC and GLS, well-regarded for its luxurious craftsmanship, generous cabin space, and exceptional on-road refinement. Building on the petrol-powered version, the GLE PHEV incorporates a plug-in hybrid system that balances performance with fuel efficiency while qualifying for green energy vehicle incentives. Designated locally as the GLE 400 e 4MATIC, it is offered as a fully imported (CBU) model with an official retail price of RM824,800. Key rivals in the premium segment include luxury plug-in hybrid SUVs like the BMW X5 xDrive50e and Volvo XC90 Recharge.

Design Language

The GLE PHEV retains the muscular and commanding exterior styling of the standard GLE. Up front, it sports the signature Mercedes-Benz radiator grille with star-pattern pin-chrome detailing and an oversized three-pointed star emblem, delivering unmistakable road presence. Functional air curtains flank both sides of the front bumper, while the side profile is accentuated by clean, upright lines, a floating roof design, and metallic roof rails that add visual depth. At the rear, slim LED taillight clusters and twin exhaust finishers lend a poised yet sporty stance. In terms of dimensions, it measures 4,927 mm in length, 2,018 mm in width, and 1,782 mm in height, with a 2,995 mm wheelbase.

Inside, the GLE PHEV features the familiar Mercedes-Benz dual-screen widescreen cockpit, housing a 12.3-inch all-digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch central infotainment touchscreen. The cabin is lavishly trimmed in premium leather upholstery and genuine wood veneers, complemented by 64-colour ambient lighting to create an opulent ambiance. The seats are wrapped in genuine leather, with power-adjustable front seats offering multi-way adjustment and memory functions. Higher-spec variants can be optioned with a Burmester sound system and MULTIBEAM LED headlamps.

Powertrain & Performance

The GLE PHEV is driven by a plug-in hybrid powertrain combining a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine and a rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous electric motor:

• Engine: 2.0T turbocharged inline-four engine producing 185kW (approx. 252 hp) and 400N·m of peak torque

• Electric Motor: Rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor generating 100kW (approx. 136 hp) and 440N·m of peak torque

• Combined Output: Total system output of 280kW (approx. 381 hp) and 650N·m of total system torque

Power is channelled through a 9-speed automatic transmission (9G-TRONIC) to the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The 0-100 km/h sprint is completed in 6.5 seconds, on to a top speed of 210 km/h.

Energy is supplied by a 31.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, delivering a WLTC-rated pure electric range of 100 km. The vehicle supports up to 60 kW DC fast charging, taking approximately 20 minutes to replenish the battery from 10% to 80%; AC charging at 11 kW completes a 10% to 100% full charge in about 2.5 hours. Under the WLTC test cycle, combined fuel consumption is rated at just 1.91 L/100 km, while battery-depleted fuel consumption stands at around 8.6 L/100 km.

Chassis & Handling

The GLE PHEV is underpinned by Mercedes-Benz's MHA longitudinal platform. The suspension setup consists of front double-wishbone independent suspension and rear multi-link independent suspension, equipped as standard with AIRMATIC air suspension. This system automatically adjusts ride height and damping stiffness according to vehicle speed, payload, and road conditions, delivering an optimal balance between ride comfort and handling stability. The 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive system ensures dependable traction in wet weather and over light off-road terrain. The electric power steering provides a linear and progressive steering feel, while drivers can select from several driving modes including Sport, Eco, Standard/Comfort, Off-road, and Individual.

Cabin & Equipment

The GLE PHEV features a spacious 5-seater layout, with the 2,995 mm wheelbase providing generous legroom for rear occupants. Boot capacity is equally generous, easily catering to family outings and long-distance road trips.

In terms of convenience and comfort, the SUV is fitted with dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and 64-colour ambient lighting. Infotainment is handled by the second-generation MBUX system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected navigation, OTA software updates, voice control, and augmented reality (AR) navigation. Audiophiles are treated to a standard Burmester® surround sound system packing 13 speakers with a total output of 590 watts.

Safety & Driver Assistance

The GLE PHEV comes equipped with the Mercedes-Benz Driving Assistance Package Plus, providing Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Key active safety features include Active Brake Assist (with pedestrian detection), Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, all-speed Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Sign Assist, Active Parking Assist, and a 360-degree surround-view camera with a "transparent bonnet" function. In terms of passive safety, the vehicle utilises a high-strength body structure paired with a comprehensive airbag suite that includes dual front airbags, front side airbags, and full-length curtain airbags.

Market Performance & Verdict

The launch of the GLE PHEV marks an important milestone in Mercedes-Benz's electrification roadmap within the mid-to-large luxury SUV sector. Its WLTC pure electric range of around 100 km is class-leading among competing PHEV SUVs, comfortably covering daily urban commutes to deliver a seamless "EV around town, petrol for outstation trips" zero-range-anxiety driving experience. Compared to rivals like the BMW X5 xDrive50e, the GLE PHEV holds clear advantages in electric driving range and standard-fit air suspension. However, a battery-depleted fuel consumption of 8.6 L/100 km is not particularly standout in this class, and a price tag exceeding RM800,000 naturally confines its appeal to high-end luxury buyers. Nevertheless, backed by strong brand equity and the enduring prestige of the GLE badge, the GLE PHEV remains a highly compelling and formidable contender in the luxury PHEV segment.