The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe Makes its Debut

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe (Credit: © Mercedes-Benz)

We knew it was coming, but the timing was still unknown; I’m of course talking about the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, the brands newest addition to its crossover lineup. With this debut also comes the debut of Mercedes’ new AMG sports lineup that spans the gap between the normal models and the balls-to-the-wall AMG models with the GLE 450 AMG 4MATIC Coupe (try saying that 10 times fast).

On the outside, the GLE Coupe features a fairly standard, albeit rather sexy, crossover front end, but then adds in a swoopy coupe-like roofline to give it a sportier look. While this has worked in the past with the BMW X6, I still find it hard to believe that buyers actually like this body style. You’re getting all of the bad stuff with a crossover — high center of gravity, large size and bulky feel — but losing the benefits of an SUV like enhanced cargo room and increased rear headroom because of the sloped rear roofline. However, I cannot say that the GLE Coupe isn’t a stunning SUV, as it is dripping with style. I guess buyers of this type of SUV are willing to take form over function, and that’s their decision to make.

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe (Credit: © Mercedes-Benz)

The GLE Coupe clearly takes its styling direction from the recently launched S-Class Coupe, including the 3D-look taillights, and the chrome band above them. Along with its S-Class elements are clear SUV references, like the chrome-plated skid plates, the up to 22-inch wheels, the high belt-line, and increased ground clearance. Also included in the design of the sporty GLE Coupe is a sports grille with a single louver, LED headlights, and a power-dome hood.

So far, the only GLE Coupe that Mercedes has unveiled is the AMG sports model that is dubbed the GLE 450 AMG 4MATIC. Under the hood of this model lies a 3.0-liter, biturbo V-6 that produces 362 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The powerplant mates to a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed auto transmission that delivers power to all four wheels via Mercedes’ 4MATIC system. The transmission has five modes to cover numerous driving conditions and styles including Individual, Comfort, Slippery, Sport and Sport+. The driver selects these modes using a rotary knob on the center console.

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 AMG Coupe (Credit: © Mercedes-Benz)

The AIRMATIC suspension system helps keep body roll to a minimum using the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM when the ADS Plus system is in Sport or Sport+. For those who prefer a more comfortable ride, the ADS Plus system also has a Comfort  setting. Working with the suspension system on the GLE 450 AMG 4MATIC Coupe are standard 21-inch AMG light-alloy wheels wrapped in 275/45R21 rubber up front and 315/40R21 tires on the rear. Optionally, buyers can go with 22-inch wheels slathered in 285/40 and 325/35 rubber on the front and rear, respectively.

There is no mention of when the GLE 450 AMG 4MATIC will be available for purchase nor did Mercedes offer up pricing information. However, I can pass on that it will be available in the U.S. soon.