The Mercedes GLE is reaching middle age so it comes as little surprise that spy photographers have snapped a facelifted prototype on the Nürburgring. Caught wearing a moderate amount of camouflage, the updated crossover has a revised front bumper with pronounced air intakes featuring a horizontal accent. They reside on either side of a new skid plate that features a central intake on top.
Elsewhere, we can see a more rounded grille and updated headlights. The latter are obscured by camouflage, but it appears they will feature LED daytime running lights that echo those found on the C- and S-Class. Additional changes are limited, but the rear end will receive a minor refreshening. However, the updates will apparently be limited to the taillights which feature revised graphics.
The interior will likely follow suit as there doesn’t appear to be any major changes. However, we wouldn’t be surprised to find a new steering wheel, an updated infotainment system, and revised trim and upholstery combinations. Engine options remain the biggest mystery, but the GLE currently offers a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 255 hp and 370 Nm of torque as well as a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 362 hp and 500 Nm of torque. Customers can also opt for a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with outputs ranging from 483 hp to 603 hp.
While the V8 variants are getting dropped in the United States for 2022, they’ll presumably return the following year as long as supply chain issues have been worked out.
