The Classy, Sportier, Sleeker Mercedez-Benz GLE-Class Coupe
-By Teddy Nwanunobi
It is a new version of the regular GLE Coupe, which comes with a classy and well-built interior. Mercedes-Benz would not have come up with the new version of GLE, if Coupe-style SUVs are not big business for luxury automakers. Remember, it was only last year that it introduced a redesigned version of the midsize GLE. But experts would guess that it would only be a matter of time before they would see a new version of the GLE Coupe.
The new second-generation model, when compared to the old GLE Coupe, has more features, more refinement, and greater capabilities. The MBUX infotainment system is standard on all models, and has garnered high praise for its ease of use and cutting-edge tech. There are also plenty of available advanced safety features, and driver assistants for added security.
Below are the categories that would help one decide how the new GLE Coupe compares well against its rivals like the Audi SQ8, BMW X6 and Porsche Cayenne Coupe on a scale of 1 to 10, as well as how big of a deal its reduced practicality compares to the regular GLE:
How’s the drive? The AMG GLE 53 feels quick, but ultimately acceleration is average for a sporty SUV. The test vehicle covered 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds. Braking performance is solid, with consistent stops from 60 mph in just 113 feet. The AMG GLE 53 also has impressive handling limits, allowing one to drive this big SUV with confidence.
One would wish that the steering had more feel to it, but the AMG GLE 53 is easy to steer, and demands little effort from the driver, even at higher speeds. Also making this SUV easy to drive is the ultra-smooth turbocharged inline-six engine with its hybrid assist. The stop-start system is unobtrusive, as are the shifts from the nine-speed automatic transmission. Experts’ verdict is 8.0.
How comfortable? The AMG GLE 53 Coupe’s interior is serene and quiet. The heated front seats, plus our test vehicle’s ventilated and massaging versions, provide excellent all-day comfort. The rear seats don’t slide or recline but are pleasant for adults, even on long road trips. The test vehicle had the optional Acoustic Comfort package, which features extra insulation and specially coated glass, and we found it suppressed ambient noise quite well. The four-zone climate control system is strong – one can set it and forget it. The optional heated armrests are a must-have for colder climates.
The ride quality, however, is not so great. It is overly stiff, especially at lower speeds, and on less than perfect roads. Things smooth out at higher speeds, but the trade-off at lower speeds makes the AMG GLE 53 feel less elegant. Experts’ verdict is 8.0.
How is the interior? The front row of the GLE’s cabin is near perfect. It exhibits excellent build quality, and offers very good usability. The driving position provides a commanding view of the road with plenty of adjustability. It is quite roomy up front, but due to the low roof styling, second-row passengers will need to duck their heads to get in. Once there, there is ample legroom. The low roofline reduces rearward visibility, but the optional surround-view cameras do a good job filling in the gaps when parking.
The GLE’s controls are good – from the touchscreen and hard buttons to the intuitive touchpad controller. Functions such as track/preset skipping, home and back are right on the pad, and it has useful haptic feedback. The steering wheel touchpads are also useful, but are too easy to brush inadvertently. Experts’ verdict is 8.0.
How’s the tech? Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment system is a technologic tour de force. It is easy to use and capable of controlling most every function through voice commands. The Burmester audio system in the tested vehicle fully enveloped the driver in rich music. But one would, however, wish that the max volume could go a tad higher.
One exceptionally helpful feature is the nav system’s (optional) augmented reality that overlays street names and arrows atop a live front-view video when making turns. For safety, a number of advanced safety and driving aids are standard. Semi-automated driving features are available through the driver assistance package. The features are easy to use, and they help reduce fatigue in stop-and-go traffic. Experts’ verdict is 9.0.
How’s the Storage?
The GLE Coupe’s cabin is well designed. The cubbies and compartments abound for stashing drinks and items. The cargo area is compromised somewhat by the coupe-like styling compared to the regular GLE. Still, its 27.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats is decent for this class of vehicle. You’ll be able to load multiple pieces of carry-on luggage upright with no problem.
The rear seats have four easy-to-access car seat anchors for kids, and there is plenty of room for even the bulkiest child safety seats. The GLE’s max towing capacity, even in AMG trim, is pretty strong at 7,700 pounds when equipped with the Class III trailer hitch option. Experts’ verdict is 7.5.
How economical? The EPA estimates the AMG GLE 53 Coupe will get 20 mpg combined (18 city/23 highway), which is about average for a midsize luxury performance SUV. Going 20.1 mpg on a 115-mile mixed-driving evaluation route indicates that the EPA’s numbers are realistic. Experts’ verdict is 7.0.
Is it a good value? The GLE Coupe can get pretty expensive, but in general one will feel like you are getting your money’s worth. Impeccable build quality is a must for this price range, and the Mercedes-Benz absolutely delivers. The leather, aluminum and impressive technology all help justify the expense.
The four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty is average, but the same coverage for the powertrain is less than what most competitors offer. Roadside assistance matches rivals in years but comes with a 50,000-mileage cap. Experts’ verdict is 7.5.
How about its wildcard? Despite the AMG badge, the GLE 53 is not as athletic as others in the class. But it is plenty competent going around curves and quick enough for most people in a straight line. All that capability does come at the expense of a more relaxed ride, but if you want the AMG, one is already willing to accept a few compromises for higher performance.
To that performance, the AMG GLE 53 adds loads of refinement both inside and out. One will be hard-pressed to find this amount of luxury and cutting-edge technology among the competition. Experts’ verdict is 8.5.
