We question everything about the GLE Coupe

The Mercedes GLE Coupe is proof that money doesn’t buy taste. You can choose between two engines. Entry-level gets a 3-liter turbocharged six-cylinder producing 429hp. While the top of the range AMG GLE 63 S Coupe gets a 4-liter twin-turbocharged eight-cylinder producing 603hp. Both engines are paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The GLE is very expensive to begin with, so picking between the two engines depends upon how much money you are willing to spend on one. We reckon that most will be satisfied with the AMG GLE 53, which utilizes the turbocharged six-cylinder engine. However, if you desire that extra kick in your pants acceleration and don’t mind paying the premium. The AMGGLE 63 S is certainly worth the consideration. Driving the GLE around town provided a mixed bag of emotions. We were certainly happy that the air suspension was fitted standard. Which allowed us to slip it into comfort mode around town and when we felt like driving in a non-SUV tradition. We slipped the setting into sport mode and really pushed the GLE hard through corners and switchbacks. You’ll certainly enjoy the GLE if driving dynamics is what you are after. It might not be as sharp as the X6, however it’s not a complete dullard. When you aren’t driving like a hooligan, this Mercedes is certainly a comfortable companion for long distance cruising. You won’t notice much wind or road noise. However, what will be noticed is the smallish rear windscreen and how the corners are curved, which makes it tricky to park in tight parking spaces. However, the 360-view camera (which was fitted to our tester car) can take some of the sting out of that. Don’t buy a GLE Coupe thinking that it’s a practical SUV. It’s far from it to be honest. The boot space is hugely compromised compared to the non-coupe form of the GLE. It’s also not as practical in the rear seat. It’s more of a two-seater if anything. Space in the front seats are ample. There’s plenty of adjustments for both driver and front passenger to get comfortable. The interior is what you’d expect of a Mercedes. Plenty of high-quality materials used and the infotainment screen is easy to navigate through. The GLE Coupe in both trims are similar in standard-kit. Keyless-Go is fitted standard along with dual-zone climate control and 12.3-inch touchscreen multimedia display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is fitted as standard along with power-folding exterior mirrors and handsfree boot release. The GLE Coupe is certainly a distinct looking SUV. Its hunchback design means that practicality isn’t its strong suite. However, what the GLE does shine in is performance and road presence, and for anyone that’s looking for an SUV to be seen in. The GLE Coupe certainly is the one to go for. Likes: Both engines are extremely flexible. The interior is well-executed with many high-quality materials used. It has road presence that not many SUVS have. Dislikes: It’s not a ‘coupe’. It can get quite expensive with options. It’s not a car for introverts. The GLE Coupe isn’t a sensible choice. It’s more for about the driving dynamics and road presence. Which is why we say the AMG GLE 53 is the appropriate way to go. It’s flexible enough and expensive enough without being completely ridiculous like the AMG GLE 63 S.