The BMW X6 M finally has some competition.
Niche vehicles are all the rage today with four-door coupes ruling the roost. Traditional SUVs, sedans, and other vehicles have morphed into interesting creations that blur lines between classifications. The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe is the latest addition to the new wave of vehicles that fill a small niche and can be classified ten different ways. But, there’s also the exciting Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe for those that want the slick looks and incredible performance for the new four-door coupe crossover niche vehicle.
The new Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe model line sits in the brand’s E-Class Coupe segment and uses the new SUV naming methods set to be employed in current and future models. The most eye-catching aspect of the new GLE Coupe however, is its design.
Mercedes-Benz took elements of passion and intelligence and blended them with touches of tradition and modern feel worn by a mixture of different automotive classes to create a dynamic yet luxurious vehicle. Athleticism and sportiness mesh with modern luxury in the GLE Coupe. Traditional SUV characteristics such as a higher ride height, powerful fenders, and high belt line are combined with a low greenhouse and sculpted couple-like body to create a design that reflects the best of both worlds. Three-dimensional LED headlights with a forward-sloping, power-domed hood dominate the front fascia while illuminated running boards, slim rear taillights, and wide rear chrome insert complement the profile and shape of the GLE Coupe.
The top-dog in the lineup is also the first to represent the new Mercedes-AMG product line. The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG takes the split personality of the coupe to a new level with its dynamic athleticism and incredible comfort.
“The GLE 450 AMG Coupé is our first sports model, and further highly emotional and performance-oriented models will follow in the near future. The new product line from Mercedes-AMG has allowed us to make true sports car technology and the fascination of motorsports more accessible”, says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “Every vehicle from Affalterbach honors the brand promise of Driving Performance.”
At the heart of the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe is a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine that cranks out 367 horsepower at 5,500 RPM and 384 lb-ft. of torque from 1,400 to 4,000 RPM. This potent power plant is paired up with a 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission that, depending on the driving mode selected, can provide smooth-as-butter shifts of quick, engaging gear changes. The 4Matic permanent all-wheel drive system is also tailored for the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe where the power split between front and rear is 40:60 for better driving dynamics.
The suspension is more than capable of providing sharp handling or smooth comfort thanks to the Airmatic air suspension with continuously variable ADS Plus damping. Sensors in the steering system, ESP, and brakes determine the driving conditions and instantly alter the damping force to each wheel to maintain the selected ride quality. An Active Curve System with active roll stabilization is utilized in Sport or Sport+ driving modes and helps to drastically reduce body roll for better handling. The standard wheel and tire setup for the AMG model are the five-spoke lightweight alloy 10.J x 21 front and 11.0J x 21 rear wheels with 275/45 R21 and 315/40 R21 tires while optional 22-inch five-spoke AMG wheels are also available as an option.
The brain behind the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG is the Dynamic Select variable dynamic control system. Five different modes are available for drivers to select, consisting of Individual, Comfort, Slippery, Sport, and Sport+. These can be selected via the rotary control on the center console and automatically adjust everything from the suspension to the powertrain to provide a comfortable, capable, or sporty driving experience.
The cabin of the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe is impressive in its modern, luxurious layout with sporty appointments. The AMG variant boasts AMG sport seats with black nappa leather for greater support during hard cornering. Drivers benefit from a three-spoke AMG sports steering wheel and brushed stainless steel sport pedals with rubber studs. Special light longitudinal grain aluminum graces the cockpit as standard while carbon fiber or piano lacquer are also available. An information display is integrated into the instrument panel and displays a wide range of selectable data to the driver while a large display sits to the right on the center console and Command Controller with ergonomically-positioned touchpad.
The official pricing and availability for the new Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG has not been announced.
Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe Specifications
Engine:
Displacement: 3.0 liters (2996 cc)
Number of Cylinders: V-6
Aspiration: Twin-turbocharged
Maximum horsepower: 367 / 270 kW at 5,500 RPM
Maximum Torque: 384 lb-ft. / 520 Nm from 1,400 to 4,000 RPM
Transmission:
Type: 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic
Drive: 4Matic permanent all-wheel drive
Torque Distribution (front/rear): 40: 60
Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe Gallery
Source: Mercedes-Benz
Are you a fan of the new Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG and its coupe-like design?
