You knew it was coming, and right here it is, The medium-grade AMG version of Mercedes’ new GLE-elegance SUV. As with different “fifty-three” AMG models, electricity comes from a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six that still functions as an electrically pushed auxiliary supercharger to mitigate rapid lag. Output is 429 horsepower and 384 lb-toes of torque. Still, if that’s not sufficient, the GLE53 additionally has a forty-eight-volt starter/generator—what a few call a slight-hybrid system—which can provide a quick increase of 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft.
The directly-six is paired with a nine-velocity automatic transmission, and Mercedes’ 4MATIC+ all-wheel-power device is popular. The latter can range front-to-rear torque distribution from 50:50 to zero:100. The GLE53 additionally capabilities AMG’s Active Ride Control suspension, which supplements the Airmatic air springs with lively roll stabilization that employs electric actuators on each of the front and rear axles to higher manage body motions. The adjustable chassis gets Trail and Sand settings to go together with the typical Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ modes.
Outside, the AMG model is differentiated from lesser GLEs by using unique grillework and quad exhaust hints that are certainly related to the tailpipes, unlike the exhaust finishers on different GLE models. Inside, the interior features an AMG-particular Nappa-leather-wrapped steering wheel and pink stitching.
As with other GLEs, this AMG version gets the cutting-edge model of the new MBUX consumer interface with speech reputation, Siri/Alexa-like “Hey Mercedes” capability, and non-obligatory gesture management. The GLE53 has a long listing of standard devices, navigation, semi-automated parking, and a full roster of active safety capabilities. Options consist of a third-row seat, Burmester surrounds sound, quad-zone weather manages, a perfumer for the indoors, and (our favorite) Augmented Video for Navigation, which overlays directional arrows on a digital camera view of the street ahead to help you find those difficult turns.
The warm(ish)-rod GLE will arrive in U.S. Dealerships in late 2020 as a 2021 version, with pricing announced toward release. The GLE lineup may also include an even burlier GLE63.
