The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupé stands as a testament to automotive engineering, built upon the MHA platform specifically designed for Mercedes-Benz SUVs. This architecture marks a significant advancement, boasting a 33 percent increase in rigidity compared to its predecessor, all while maintaining a comparable weight through the extensive use of aluminum. Despite these weight-saving measures, the GLE Coupé still registers a substantial 2,295kg, a mass that subtly influences its on-road demeanor.
While neither the GLE Coupé nor its direct competitor, the BMW X6, are conceived as outright sports cars, differences emerge in their driving dynamics. The GLE Coupé exhibits a slightly more deliberate turn-in, and its considerable weight feels marginally less composed when navigating tighter corners at speed. This sensation is partly attributed to the vehicle’s standard adaptive air suspension, which, in its default Comfort setting, prioritizes a plush ride. This softer setup excels at absorbing road imperfections, providing a cosseting experience. However, on uneven or cambered road surfaces, occupants may notice some body roll due to the elevated seating position and side-to-side motion. The payoff, however, is a genuinely refined and comfortable ride, even when equipped with the standard 22-inch wheels.
Its handling capabilities remain competent, offering ample grip and a reassuring sense of security. Despite the elevated ride height and inherent body roll typical of SUVs, the GLE Coupé inspires confidence. However, it doesn’t necessarily deliver an engaging or exhilarating driving experience, even within the SUV category. In this context, the “coupé” designation leans more towards stylistic flair than a fundamental shift in driving character.
The true strength of the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupé lies in its exceptional refinement. A key contributor to this is the 3.0-liter turbocharged in-line six-cylinder engine. In the 400 d configuration, this powerplant generates 325bhp and a substantial 700Nm of torque. This robust output ensures that even with its considerable weight, the GLE Coupé achieves 0-62mph in a brisk 5.7 seconds. While outright speed isn’t the primary focus for a vehicle of this nature, the engine’s abundant mid-range torque and overall flexibility are significant assets. Complementing this engine is the seamless nine-speed automatic gearbox. While occasionally it might hold onto gears for a fraction longer than anticipated, its gear changes are remarkably smooth and unobtrusive. Crucially, the generous torque reserves mean the transmission avoids aggressive downshifts at the slightest accelerator input, contributing to relaxed and effortless progress.
Many of these attributes are shared with the BMW X6. However, the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupé distinguishes itself with its level of standard equipment. The GLE Coupé 400 d is exclusively offered in AMG Line Premium Plus trim, which encompasses a comprehensive suite of expected features. Significantly, it surpasses the BMW X6 M Sport by including a Burmester sound system, ventilated front seats (in addition to standard heating), keyless operation, a head-up display, acoustic glazing, and the Driving Assistance Package as standard. This comprehensive safety and assistance suite incorporates semi-autonomous adaptive cruise control, blind-spot and lane-keeping assist, cross-traffic alert with braking intervention, and evasive steering assist, further solidifying the GLE Coupé’s position as a well-equipped and technologically advanced luxury SUV, and a compelling alternative to those considering a Mercedes Benz X6 equivalent.
