The new GLE can travel up to 114km of electric range, making it a suitable daily driver (All photos: Sam Fong/ The Edge)
Imposing, muscular and sporty. These three words come to mind when scanning the silhouette of the new Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 e 4Matic. Hot off the assembly line at the brand’s Pekan production plant in Pahang, this model marks the first-ever GLE plug-in hybrid in the country and promises to marry electrified performance with exceptional comfort.
Measuring 4,924mm in length, 2,010mm in width with mirrors and 1,795mm in height, the five-seater SUV is nothing short of colossal, so much so that getting behind the wheel feels more of a clamber than a hop. While this might mean elderly passengers need a steadying hand to get settled, the effort is well rewarded. Once inside, any physical exertion is forgotten the moment you sink into the Artico faux leather (which requires lower maintenance) and Microcut microfibre upholstered seats. Sure, the real stuff is softer to the touch, but unless you are grading it with a magnifying glass, the difference is imperceptible. If it is any consolation, the multifunction sports steering wheel is wrapped in genuine napa leather, perforated at 9 and 3 o’clock for better grip.
While the high vantage point grants every passenger a lofty view, the cockpit becomes a throne in the new GLE, giving the front occupants command of the vehicle’s tech suite.
Both the driver and central displays measure 12.3in, with the latter offering direct touchscreen operation of the second-generation MBUX system. Though the screens are a little too upright for our liking, the essential apps and settings are easy to navigate and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto pairing ensure seamless smartphone integration.
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Features for daily driving, such as the 360° camera (a must for manoeuvring narrow lanes and tight parking spots) and toggle for drive modes (Hybrid, Electric, Battery Hold, Sport and Individual), are within reach on the instrument panel. Handsomely swathed in anthracite open-pore oak wood, it also houses the Thermotronic system, which allows for bespoke climate and airflow settings across four individual zones.
Comfort is key within the cabin. A large wheelbase affords plenty of legroom for the rear passengers, whose seats are also electrically adjustable. When not in use, they fold flat at the push of a button, extending the already cavernous luggage compartment from 490L to 1,645L. Retracting roller blinds on the rear windows provide extra privacy and protection against harsh tropical rays, but when the weather is benign, there is no harm inviting the outside in. After all, the panoramic sunroof creates an expansive, airy feel within the cabin. Our only gripe is the absence of ventilated seats — only heated for the front — which is a missed opportunity, given our climate.
For a vehicle this large, it is surprisingly easy to drive, though one still needs to be mindful of its 2,685kg kerb weight and resulting inertia. Earlier braking and gradual steering input make the driving experience smoother. Definitely no cornering attempts. Body roll can be minimised by going slow and steady, but is ultimately unavoidable with the high centre of gravity. Mercedes’ air suspension system with adaptive damping also does its part in ensuring passenger comfort, making micro adjustments when necessary, but drivers should still decelerate in the face of large potholes.
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The GLE is equipped with a two-litre turbocharged and electrified four-cylinder engine, which works in harmony with the 9G-Tronic automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel drive system, allowing it to complete the century sprint in 6.1 seconds, with a top speed of 210kph.
It can travel up to 114km of electric range, according to the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), making it a suitable daily driver for most. For the average weekly routine — office commutes, school runs and gym sessions — you could easily get through the work week without burning a drop of petrol.
While the kids will certainly feel like royalty being picked up in their “chariot” and jamming to their favourite tunes through the Burmester 3D surround sound system, the real luxury is peace of mind knowing that they are shielded by the GLE’s structural integrity and uncompromising safety standards.
For weekend jaunts, the plug-in hybrid can also navigate the beaten path thanks to its Off-Road programme. Should the battery deplete, the petrol engine awakens seamlessly to take over, ensuring your journey continues without interruption. At the end of the day, why commit to one drivetrain when you can enjoy the best of both worlds?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 e 4Matic with EQ Hybrid Technology is priced from RM498,888 on the road without insurance.
This article first appeared on Mar 2, 2026 in The Edge Malaysia.
