Mercedes-Benz’s SUV lineup is getting a big shot in the arm for the 2027 model year. The automaker recently announced a range of improvements to the GLE and GLS, including updates to AMG models and the GLE Coupe. Electrified powertrains now cover the entire line, and the AMG GLE 53 Hybrid’s plug-in hybrid powertrain delivers power numbers that rival the specs seen in many higher-end sports cars and performance vehicles. We won’t cover everything here – Mercedes’ press releases typically run several pages each – but here are the powertrain and tech highlights you need to know about.
2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE
The new GLE will arrive with a range of improvements, including electrified powertrain options. GLE 350 models come with a four-cylinder engine paired with an electric compressor that should be a step up from a traditional turbocharger. Its 48-volt electrical system enables coasting with the engine off and a power boost for better acceleration.
The GLE 450 4MATIC’s six-cylinder engine received a torque boost to 413 pound-feet and features a revised cylinder head design for improved airflow. The plug-in hybrid GLE 500e 4MATIC also uses the new engine paired with electric motors, giving it 74 more horsepower than the previous model. Mercedes promises around 65 miles of electric range, though that figure comes from the WLTP test cycle, which is usually far more generous than the EPA’s.
At the top of the range, the GLE 580 4MATIC’s V8 is more powerful for 2027. Horsepower increased to 530, and torque is up to 553 pound-feet. That power is also available across a wider range of engine speeds, and Mercedes said it made other refinements to improve smoothness and efficiency.
New driver-assistance tech is available thanks to a water-cooled “supercomputer” processor, 10 exterior cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and up to 5 radar sensors. That setup brings more advanced Distronic adaptive cruise control features, and it enables a range of hands-free assisted driving modes. The available parking assistance system can detect parking spaces around the vehicle, including those that are not clearly marked, and it offers automated parking functionality.
Inside, the updated MBUX infotainment system runs across three 12.3-inch displays, arranged behind a single glass panel. It offers a configurable app grid with new gaming, audio, and video features. Front passengers can watch videos or play games, but the system deactivates if it senses the driver being distracted by the fun. A 3D digital gauge cluster is available, along with an augmented reality head-up display that spans 18 inches in full color. Video conferencing is also available via the in-car cameras and can be used while the vehicle is in motion.
2027 Mercedes-Benz GLS
Mercedes’ flagship SUV received similar revisions for the 2027 model year. The GLS 450 and GLS 580 4MATIC’s powertrains have been massaged, getting the same power and efficiency improvements as the GLE 450 and GLE 580 SUVs. The GLS also has improved noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) protection, making it quieter inside. New sound insulation around the transmission and engine bulkhead, a thicker engine cover, and acoustic foam also help in that pursuit.
The GLS 580 is available with an E-Active Body Control system that uses active air suspension to level the vehicle, even under heavy loads. It offers adjustable ride heights and uses more than 20 sensors to adjust the suspension 1,000 times per second. The system can also tweak settings for each wheel individually, and it retains the funky “rocking” mode, which helps free the vehicle from sand and other sticky situations.
Safety and infotainment tech also received the same updates as the GLE. Interior updates include a new upholstery design with moccasin stitching, and the GLS will be available with more interior color options, including a new beech brown/black theme. Synthetic leather upholstery is standard, but Mercedes offers genuine leather options, and a range of wood interior trims are available.
2027 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Hybrid
The AMG 53 models have long been a middle ground of performance, with the 63 variants typically being at the top, but the new hybrid system boosts the GLE’s output so far that a range-topping model might not be necessary. It features a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. The combined output is 577 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, giving the SUV a 0-60 time of 4.4 seconds, a half-second quicker than the previous model. The top speed is now limited to 155 mph, and the GLE can move on electric power at speeds of up to 87 mph.
Pricing details for the new SUVs aren’t available yet, but we expect to see more details as they near release, which should happen later in 2026. That said, none of these models is expected to be particularly affordable, with some GLS SUVs reaching deep into the $100,000 range.