From Car and Driver · · 2m
2027 Mercedes GLE and GLS First Drive Review
Mercedes-Benz updates GLE and GLS SUVs with S-class tech for 2027.
In brief
Mercedes-Benz updates GLE and GLS SUVs with S-class tech for 2027. Mercedes-Benz introduces updated 2027 GLE and GLS SUVs with S-class tech, including new powertrains and features. Originally reported by Car and Driver.
2027 GLE and GLS Refresh
The current generations of Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLS just underwent their second freshening, and they’re pretty significant ones for both.
Starry Bumpers and Grilles
Bumpers underwent minor plastic surgery, and new grilles filled with rows of tiny three-pointed stars complement the updated headlights and taillights.
Superscreen Interior
The previous 12.3-inch driver and center displays are now joined by a passenger touchscreen of the same size, creating a trio of screens called Superscreen.
Touch Controls Improved
Mercedes replaced the volume control with a roller and added a physical rocker for adaptive cruise control, though the directional pad remains capacitive.
New Electrical Architecture
A new electrical architecture aligns both models with the S-class’s hardware, allowing for over-the-air updates and additional apps and systems.
Hands-Free Highway Assist
Mercedes’s new Hands-Free Highway Assist and City Pro features will be enabled via software update at some point in the future.
Powertrain Upgrades
The existing turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine gains an electric compressor for quicker and smoother torque delivery.
3.0-Liter Inline-Six Boost
The 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine gains 44 pound-feet of torque for a new total of 413 pound-feet.
Plug-In Hybrid Upgrade
The plug-in hybrid option gets a bigger engine and more powerful electric motor, increasing output to 429 horsepower and 502 pound-feet.
V-8 Powertrain
The top-tier models inherit a new 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine from the S-class, producing 530 horsepower and 553 pound-feet.
Smooth Driving Experience
The reworked chassis and suspension offer improved comfort and smoothness, with cloud-based predictive damping for pavement disturbances.
Pricing Details
The GLE350 4Matic starts at $69,850, while the GLS450 4Matic begins at $95,500, with the top models priced at $97,750 and $122,500 respectively.
What's Next
Mercedes-Benz notes that the GLE Coupe gets stiffer suspension tuning and quicker steering than its SUV counterpart.
2027 GLE and GLS Review
Bringing both models up to current S-class spec wasn’t cheap, but it pays dividends in comfort and luxury.
The one thing
Mercedes-Benz introduces updated 2027 GLE and GLS SUVs with S-class tech, including new powertrains and features.
