When walking into the Mercedes showroom in Windhoek, the dynamic presence of the face-lifted GLE53 Coupé is unmistakable, as the aggressive stance of the AMG immediately draws in visitors to better inspect the sharpened all round design. The striking demeanour and overall sporty ambience of this world-famous coupé is accentuated by an independent front apron with its AMG-specific radiator grille.

The conspicuous grille is framed by all new headlamps that ensure drivers are able properly see in the dark and redesigned tail lamps ensure the Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupé can be seen.

In the interior of the new Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupé “luxurious” is the key word because AMG-specific design and equipment elements ensure dynamism, comfort and individualisation. 

In addition to sports seats and the AMG Performance steering wheel, the control and display concept is also designed for a motorsport-like driving experience. The first-class standard equipment of the Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupé leaves nothing to be desired, with components such as the Burmester surround sound system and panoramic sliding sunroof already fitted.

In true Mercedes fashion, the new AMG GLE Coupé offers a modified six-cylinder inline engine as well as a V8 biturbo option. Equally important for driving dynamics and performance are the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 9-speed transmission, dynamic select for selecting the drive programmes and, last but not least, the AMG high-performance compound brake system.

While the 63 S models are powered by a bi-turbo 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine, the 53s are driven by a bi-turbo 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine. 

When Mercedes first introduced the ML 55 AMG it was touted as a high-performance SUV that excelled. Since then, the ML has changed its name to GLE, and the AMG line-up has also been enhanced. The GLE AMG range now comprises standard and Coupé models, available in 63 S and 53 configurations. 

While Mercedes and its performance arm, AMG, have several SUVs on offer, the GLE 53 Coupé has impressed pundits with its all-round drivability, comfort, and finesse.

The GLE 53 AMG Coupé and the standard GLE 53 AMG are recognizable by their imposing 20-inch wheels, large AMG grille, and all-round muscular design, particularly the flared wheel arches.

Meanwhile, the GLE 53 AMG Coupé’s interior gives strong AMG vibes including front seats offer heating, ventilation, and memory function, and can be adjusted electrically. 

The SUV also allows users to scroll through its vast menu list and adjust various settings to improve driver comfort. These include activating the massage, adjusting the front seats’ lumbar support, and setting the cabin’s lighting. Mercedes also stated that prospective owners can expand the GLE’s seat offering to seven over the standard five.

Mercedes-Benz’s ‘Hey Mercedes’, or MBUX, is standard, and allows users to operate several of the SUV’s functions via voice commands. MBUX also features AMG-specific content.

The engine Mercedes-AMG employs in its vehicles with the’ 53’ badge produces 320kW and 520Nm of torque. In addition, the engine is mated with a 48V onboard electrical system that is fed by an EQ Boost starter generator. For brief periods, this EQ starter generator also provides an additional 16kW/250Nm to the engine, bringing total power outputs to 338kW/770Nm. Though this isn’t available for an entire drive, it does help the SUV sprint off the line and reaching 100km/h from standstill in 4.6 seconds.

Power is permanently sent to all four wheels via Merc’s nine-speed automatic transmission, and drivers can also opt to change gears via the paddles on the steering wheel.

The GLE 53’s drive is also enhanced by the new AMG Ride Control+ air suspension. Using this function, drivers can adjust the SUV’s ride quality to their liking and choose between an array of options. These include Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, as well as Individual, Trail, and Sand. With each setting, the SUV’s driving characteristics change and it becomes more adaptable to various driving conditions.

When Mercedes-Benz turned the world of SUVs on its head with the arrival of the ML 63 AMG in 1999, the SUV was powered by a 255kW V8 engine that basically eliminated all competition.