The 2021 Mercedes-amg Gle 53 Coupe carves out a unique space in the performance SUV segment, seamlessly blending sporty coupe aesthetics with the robust capabilities expected from an SUV, all while injecting the exhilarating performance DNA of AMG. This model stands out with its potent 3.0-liter six-cylinder in-line engine enhanced with 48-volt technology, ensuring both thrilling power and optimized efficiency. Coupled with the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive and the rapid AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed automatic transmission, the GLE 53 Coupe delivers an engaging and dynamic driving experience. Its wheelbase, shorter than the standard GLE SUV by 2.4 inches, contributes to its agile handling, further refined by AMG drive programs and AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension built on AIRMATIC. The distinctive AMG-specific grille immediately signals its high-performance pedigree, while the vehicle retains the practicality of a Mercedes SUV, offering generous space, advanced safety features, and confident traction across diverse terrains.
Tobias Moers, former CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, aptly described the GLE 53 Coupe as an embodiment of “style and elegance” within the SUV family, emphasizing its hallmark AMG features, including the signature radiator grille. He highlighted the vehicle’s sophisticated suspension technology and the powerful yet efficient six-cylinder in-line engine with 48-volt technology as key elements guaranteeing a “thrilling driving experience” across both longitudinal and lateral dynamics.
Exterior Design: Expressive Sportiness and Muscular Elegance
The exterior styling of the 2021 GLE 53 Coupe is a powerful articulation of AMG Driving Performance, instantly recognizable as part of the AMG lineage through its prominent AMG-specific radiator grille. The coupe silhouette is both stylish and assertive, communicating a sense of passion and dynamic capability. The hood’s sculpted powerdomes further amplify this impression of potent performance. Refined design elements, such as the iconic Mercedes star encircled in a double ring, sleek, focused headlamps, and the sharply defined “A-wing” in the front bumper, underscore the vehicle’s contemporary and aggressive aesthetic.
The front bumper is uniquely AMG, featuring sporty outer air inlets, each detailed with twin side louvers finished in silver chrome with black accents. Complementing the air inlet louvers, the front splitter also sports a silver chrome finish. The AMG side skirts and the spoiler integrated into the trunk lid are painted to match the vehicle’s body color, creating a cohesive and streamlined profile. The flared wheel arches are designed to accommodate substantial wheels, with 21-inch wheels bearing AMG lettering included as standard. For those seeking an even more imposing stance, optional 21-inch and 22-inch wheel designs are available.
At the rear, the redesigned bumper incorporates distinct AMG features such as a striking diffuser and a silver chrome trim strip, which visually broadens the vehicle and reinforces its powerful presence. The dedicated AMG exhaust system, complete with round twin-tailpipe trim elements in high-gloss chrome, enhances the sporty and dominant rear aesthetic. For a further layer of personalization, the AMG Night package offers numerous high-gloss black elements, including the front splitter, front bumper trim, diffuser, outer air inlets, mirror caps, window frames, and exhaust tailpipe trim elements, creating a more aggressive and stealth-like appearance.
Interior Design: Progressive Luxury with Robust AMG Flair
The distinctive AMG character seamlessly transitions into the high-quality interior of the 2021 GLE 53 Coupe. Unique color accents, such as bold red contrast stitching and vibrant red seat belts, inject a sporty yet exclusive ambiance into the cabin. The AMG seats, upholstered in black MB-Tex / DINAMICA microfiber, are designed to provide exceptional lateral support during spirited driving and feature an AMG-specific pattern, complete with “AMG” badges proudly displayed on the front backrests.
The latest generation AMG Performance steering wheel, with its three-spoke design, aluminum shift paddles, and driver-centric ergonomics, offers a tactile and visually appealing interface for performance driving. AMG stainless steel sports pedals, equipped with rubber studs, and black floor mats adorned with “AMG” lettering further emphasize the sporty aesthetic of the interior.
For those seeking to personalize the cabin further, a comprehensive range of leather upholstery options and high-quality interior trim elements are available. The optional AMG Carbon Fiber trim elements are particularly effective in amplifying the sporty character of the interior, adding a touch of motorsport-inspired sophistication.
Agile Dynamics: AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL and Suspension
The 2021 GLE 53 Coupe offers the option of AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL, building upon the AMG RIDE CONTROL+ system, to elevate the driving dynamics to an even higher level. A key innovation within this system is the active roll stabilization, AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL. This system employs two independently operating, electro-mechanical actuators at both the front and rear axles. It significantly minimizes body roll during cornering, allowing for more precise control in bends and during load changes. Furthermore, it enhances ride comfort when traveling straight by effectively smoothing out uneven road surfaces. The system proactively adjusts body movements to match driving conditions, significantly enriching the overall driving experience.
Compared to traditional hydraulic systems, AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL boasts a notably faster response time, capable of adapting to driving conditions up to 1000 times per second. This rapid adjustment, combined with a significant weight reduction compared to hydraulic alternatives, makes the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL a crucial component in achieving the GLE 53 Coupe’s exceptional handling and agility.
The AMG RIDE CONTROL air suspension, based on AIRMATIC, was meticulously developed in Affalterbach to strike an optimal balance between long-distance comfort and sharp agility. The sporty spring and damper tuning, along with adaptive damping, ensures a blend of exceptional driving dynamics and a high degree of ride quality. Drivers can select from three damping characteristic modes—”Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport+”—allowing for a clear differentiation between relaxed cruising and dynamic driving. Additionally, for off-road adventures, two new levels, “Trail” and “Sand,” are available, optimizing the suspension for varied terrains.
Thanks to the pneumatic all-around level control, the GLE 53 Coupe maintains a consistent ride height regardless of vehicle load. In AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs “Sport” and “Sport+”, the vehicle is automatically lowered by 0.6 inches. In “Comfort” mode, this lowering occurs at speeds above 75 mph to reduce aerodynamic drag and improve fuel efficiency, while also enhancing handling stability through a lower center of gravity. For increased ground clearance on challenging surfaces or steep inclines, the suspension can be raised by up to 2.2 inches at the touch of a button, both when stationary and at speeds up to 43 mph.
Optimized Control: Steering and Braking Systems
The electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering in the GLE 53 Coupe features a variable ratio, providing direct steering response and precise feedback. The steering power assistance is adjustable across two settings, “Comfort” and “Sport,” automatically activated based on the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive program. Drivers can also personalize steering settings within the “Individual” drive program.
The high-performance braking system ensures reliable deceleration and short stopping distances. The front brakes are equipped with internally ventilated and perforated integral brake discs, measuring 15.75 inches in diameter, paired with 2-piston fixed calipers finished in silver and adorned with black AMG lettering. The rear brakes feature internally ventilated integral brake discs with a diameter of 13.6 inches and 1-piston floating calipers, providing balanced and confident braking performance.
Electrified Power: Six-Cylinder Engine with EQ Boost
At the heart of the GLE 53 Coupe’s AMG performance is an electrified 3.0-liter engine, featuring both turbocharging and an electric auxiliary compressor. This advanced 6-cylinder in-line engine delivers 429 horsepower and a maximum torque of 384 lb-ft. The EQ Boost starter generator provides an additional 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque for brief periods, while also powering the 48-volt onboard electrical system.
The EQ Boost starter-generator acts as both a starter and an alternator, integrated between the engine and transmission. This innovation, alongside the intelligent electric auxiliary compressor and exhaust gas turbocharger, aims to enhance AMG’s signature performance and driving dynamics while simultaneously improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. The GLE 53 Coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds, reaching an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.
The electric auxiliary compressor plays a crucial role in rapidly building up boost pressure before the larger exhaust gas turbocharger engages. This results in immediate engine response and dynamic performance without noticeable turbo lag. The six-cylinder in-line engine is also noted for its refined and smooth operation.
The EQ Boost starter-generator not only enhances performance but also powers the 48V electrical system, which in turn supports the conventional 12V system. The 48V battery increases overall vehicle battery capacity, allowing for greater electrical energy supply. A key advantage of the 48V system is that it requires only a quarter of the current compared to a traditional 12V system for the same power output, enabling thinner and lighter wiring. The existing 12V system continues to power essential components such as lights, cockpit instruments, infotainment displays, and control units.
The EQ Boost starter-generator also enables hybrid functionalities, including boosting, energy recuperation, load point adjustment, gliding, and seamless engine restarts with the start/stop function, contributing to fuel savings previously exclusive to high-voltage hybrid technology. For the first time, it also manages idle speed control. The elimination of the belt drive for ancillary components reduces the engine’s installed length, creating space for a more efficient, engine-mounted exhaust gas aftertreatment system.
An optional, selectable AMG Performance exhaust system provides a tailored acoustic experience. Variable adjustable exhaust flaps allow the driver to modify the vehicle’s sound at the touch of a button, ranging from discreet to powerfully resonant, depending on the selected drive program.
Optimal Traction: AMG Performance 4MATIC+ All-Wheel Drive
The 2021 GLE 53 Coupe is equipped with fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, maximizing traction and enhancing driving dynamics. This intelligent system continuously adjusts torque distribution between the permanently driven rear axle and the front axle based on driving conditions and driver input. This results in improved longitudinal dynamics, enhanced traction, and superior lateral dynamics, leading to more powerful acceleration from a standstill and optimized grip in corners or on slippery surfaces.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G Transmission
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed automatic transmission (TCT = Torque-Converter Transmission) delivers rapid and responsive gear shifts with minimal shift times. It facilitates the quick acceleration characteristic of AMG vehicles and enables swift gear changes, either automatically or manually via steering wheel shift paddles. Upshifts and downshifts are executed instantaneously, with particularly dynamic responses in “Sport+” mode and manual mode.
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT: Intelligent Drive Programs
The GLE 53 Coupe features seven AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs: “Slippery,” “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport+,” and “Individual,” complemented by two off-road settings, “Trail” and “Sand.” AMG DYNAMIC SELECT adjusts key parameters such as engine and transmission responsiveness, accelerator pedal and steering sensitivity, suspension damping, and even the vehicle’s sound. Selected via a rocker switch on the center console or optional AMG steering wheel buttons, the chosen program is displayed in both the instrument cluster and multimedia display.
- “Slippery”: Optimized for wet or icy conditions, providing enhanced stability through reduced power and a flatter torque curve.
- “Comfort”: Prioritizes fuel-efficient and comfortable driving with early upshifts and a comfort-focused suspension and steering setup.
- “Sport”: Delivers sporty driving characteristics with quicker throttle response, shorter shift times, earlier downshifts, and more dynamic gearshifts with double-declutching, along with a firmer suspension and steering.
- “Sport+”: Offers extremely sporty performance with even sharper throttle response, enhanced engine sound during downshifts, selective torque control during upshifts with cylinder suppression for optimized shift times, increased idle speed for quicker starts, and a highly dynamic setup for suspension, steering, and drivetrain.
- “Individual”: Allows for personalized adjustments to the drive system, transmission, AMG DYNAMICS, suspension, and exhaust system.
- “Trail”: Designed for safe and effective driving on soft, muddy, or uneven terrain, optimizing performance in off-road conditions.
- “Sand”: Configured to provide the best possible grip and steering control on sandy surfaces and dunes, enhancing off-road maneuverability.
AMG DYNAMICS vehicle dynamics control integrates within the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT programs, influencing ESP® (Electronic Stability Program) and all-wheel drive control strategies across “Basic,” “Advanced,” and “Pro” levels. This intelligent system anticipates driver behavior and desired vehicle response based on driver inputs and sensor data, ranging from highly stable to extremely dynamic handling. Additionally, “Traction” and “Slide” levels are available within the off-road “Trail” and “Sand” programs when ESP® is deactivated, allowing for more driver control in challenging conditions.
MBUX Infotainment with AMG-Specific Features
The GLE 53 Coupe comes standard with the innovative MBUX infotainment system, offering numerous AMG-specific functions. The Widescreen Cockpit seamlessly integrates the instrument cluster and touchscreen display into a single visual unit. Many functions can also be activated via the intelligent voice control system, “Hey Mercedes.”
The instrument cluster features unique AMG elements such as the AMG start-up menu and four selectable display styles: “Classic,” “Sport,” “Discreet,” and the exclusive AMG “Supersport.” When AMG-specific DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs “Trail” and “Sand” are engaged, off-road-specific data like slope angle, incline, and vehicle level can be displayed in the instrument cluster. Rocker switches on the center console provide direct access to control and display drive programs, transmission modes, suspension settings, ESP®, and the exhaust system.
The AMG Performance steering wheel, trimmed in black nappa leather with red contrast stitching and a red 12-o’clock marking, combines high functionality, premium materials, and optimized ergonomics. It includes aluminum shift paddles and intuitive Touch Control buttons for managing the entire infotainment system with swiping finger movements. Optional innovative steering wheel buttons further enhance control, featuring a round controller with an integrated display and two vertically positioned color display buttons for direct activation and control of AMG drive programs.
AMG TRACK PACE: Your Personal Racing Engineer
Optional AMG TRACK PACE extends MBUX with a virtual race engineer, enabling the recording and detailed analysis of up to 80 vehicle-specific data points and lap times on closed circuits. Real-time display of many of these values is available on the Widescreen Cockpit or the optional head-up display. Drivers can use this data to analyze and refine their driving skills after track sessions. AMG TRACK PACE also measures and saves acceleration and deceleration metrics, such as 0-60 mph, quarter-mile times, and 60-0 mph braking distances.
Drivers can record custom circuits and save them for future data logging. Utilizing a newly developed algorithm for precise vehicle positioning, AMG TRACK PACE can detect circuit departures or shortcuts using GPS data and vehicle sensors (acceleration, gyroscope, steering angle, wheel speeds). A companion smartphone app enhances AMG TRACK PACE with features like video recording of track sessions, customization options for recorded videos and photos, and social media sharing capabilities.
Technical Data at a Glance
| 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe | |
|---|---|
| Cylinders/arrangement | 6/in-line |
| Displacement (cc) | 2999 |
| Combustion engine output (hp) | 429 |
| at rpm | 6100 |
| Output from EQ Boost (hp) | 21 |
| Peak torque of combustion engine (lb-ft) | 384 |
| at rpm | 1800-5800 |
| Max. EQ Boost torque (lb-ft) | 184 |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph (s) | 5.2 |
| Top speed (mph) | 155* |
* Electronically limited
