Range anxiety with EVs is a real thing, but there’s a fresh partially-electrified option from Mercedes-Benz that puts that worry to rest: the 2024 GLE 450e.

The popular mid-size luxury SUV now comes in plug-in form yielding a zero emissions range of approximately 77 kilometres, while offering all the same features and design that people enjoy from the platform. This provides an option for those that don’t yet see anything they like among the German marque’s next-generation EQ lineup.

A single silver-bladed repeating star mesh grille — part of an AMG Line Exterior package (+ $3,000) also bundling 20-inch AMG twin five-spoke wheels, sport brake system and more — looks great, accented by the metallic hits on the front bumper, around the window frames, on the available aluminum running boards (+ $845) and across the tailgate.

Mercedes-Benz says the interior is inspired by the Maybach GLS and S-Class with additions like the chromed air vents and ambient lighting colour palettes, the latter which is refreshingly reserved compared to the night club aesthetic of its other siblings. The new steering wheel incorporates touch-sensitive horizontal spokes to control the dual display screens, and the column incorporates a hidden heated function switch — something sorely missing on the EQ vehicles. The standard open-pore oak wood dash trim is absolutely beautiful.

Propelling the SUV is a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four-cylinder engine, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission, and an electric motor together making a net 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Under regular operation, electric-only output is prioritized in lower-speed city driving and the ride is whisper quiet. Unusual for a PHEV, up 60 60-kilowatt DC fast charging is supported alongside 11-kilowatt Level 2 really making this model a great choice for urban commuting and longer road trips.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e starts at $90,100.00 MSRP.