Mercedes-Benz GLE 400e 4Matic Teased Locally, Launches Soon

The latest teaser released by MBM earlier today via Facebook indicates the imminent arrival of a new GLE 400e 4Matic variant locally "very soon".

It appears that the folks over at Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) are set to electrify the bulk of its SUVs range. Earlier today, the firm dropped yet another teaser on its official Facebook page, this time hinting at the arrival of the GLE 400e 4Matic.

Officially designated as the Mercedes-Benz GLE 400e 4Matic with EQ Hybrid Technology, this is the electrified plug-in hybrid (PHEV) flavour of the three-point star marque’s fourth-gen (chassis code: W167) large, three-row SUV offering.

We’ll refresh your memory by pointing out that the fourth-gen GLE is present in MBM’s line-up currently in localised (CKD) GLE 450 4Matic. This face-lifted version was launched locally trimmed in AMG Line back in April 2024 priced at RM528,888.

From the teaser noted, the GLE 400e 4Matic looks set to retain said sporty AMG Line aesthetics treatment, as indicated by the grille shown. Apart from its promise of “coming soon”, MBM did not disclose an exact launch timeline.

Instead, the firm elected to open Registration Of Interest (ROI) for said new variant online via its official website. Naturally, no tentative price figure was disclosed. However, given it is technically ‘downsizing’ to a smaller powertrain, we could see a lowered price tag.

Current face-lifted Pekan-built (CKD) GLE 450 4Matic from its preview ahead of its April 2024 launch where it commanded RM528,888.

For reference, the GLE 450 4Matic variant currently on offer packs a beefy 3.0-litre in-like 6-cyl petrol mill brimmed with a mild-hybrid (MHEV) system outputting 381 hp and 500 Nm. Coupled with 4Matic AWD and a slick 9-speed auto box, it does 0-100 km/h sprints in just 5.6 secs.

The incoming GLE 400e 4Matic, on the other hand, is poised to bow in with a 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo petrol mill instead. It will be augmented by an e-motor and 31 kWh lithium-ion battery, altogether offering 375 hp and a meatier 600 Nm of twist instead.

Nort American-spec GLE 450e pictured for reference. Given the new PHEV variant detailed has 'downsized' powertrain, we could see the GLE launched with a more 'accessible' price tag. 

With a full charge, the setup can also yield up to 108 KM of electric-only range. Apart from 11 KW AC charging, said pack should also be capable of drawing in up to 60 kW of DC fast-charging inputs to enable 10-80% re-charges in just 29 minutes.

As usual, we’ll know more once MBM officially launches this alternative against the likes of the BMW X5,  face-lifted Volvo XC90, the VW Touareg, and perhaps the Audi Q7. In the meantime, you can share your take on this move by MBM in the comments section below.