Mercedes-AMG unveils GLE63 Coupe

MERCEDES-AMG has unveiled the Coupe version of its bahn-storming high-performance GLE63 large SUV, which is set to touch down in local showrooms in the third quarter of the year.

The AMG GLE Coupe will arrive in Australia with only the more powerful 63 S grade, as has become customary for Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific.

Using a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 with assistance from an ‘EQ Boost’ starter/alternator, peak power output is rated at a meaty 450kW from 5750-6500rpm, with 850Nm of torque on tap from 2500-4500rpm.

The EQ Boost technology and 48V on-board electrical system can momentarily add an extra 16kW/250Nm, with energy able to be recuperated through braking.

Power is delivered to the road via a nine-speed AMG multi-clutch automatic transmission and AMG’s rear-biased all-wheel-drive system which features variable torque distribution and a three-stage ESP program.

Along with the usual Comfort, Sport and Sport+ drive modes, the S grade will also feature Race mode, which configures all parameters for “maximum performance”, according to AMG.

Launching the SUV from standstill to 100km/h takes just 3.8 seconds (the same figure as the wagon), while top speed is electronically limited to 280km/h.

Official combined-cycle fuel consumption is rated at 11.5 litres per 100km, with the 48V system and cylinder deactivation technology able to help reduce the big bent-eight’s thirst.

The GLE63 S comes standard with AMG Ride Control+ air suspension, which also features continuous adaptive damping to provide the greatest mix of vehicle dynamics and ride comfort.

The self-levelling suspension system can be raised or lowered depending on the drive mode selected, while active roll stabilisation uses the 48V system to help keep the SUV flat through corners while also enhancing ride comfort by balancing out bumps that may only occur on one side of the vehicle.

Handling in sporty situations is also aided by an electronic locking differential on the rear axle, for maximum grip and cornering ability.

Speed-sensitive sports steering comes as standard, with a variable ratio that changes depending on which stage of the AMG Dynamics system is selected.

Stopping power comes courtesy of 400mm discs and six-piston callipers up front, with 370mm rotors and single-pot floating callipers at the rear.

A number of performance-oriented styling enhancements have been fitted to the GLE63 Coupe, starting from the front with the Panamericana chrome radiator grille, a jet-wing design for the front apron with black side intakes and a silver chrome front splitter.

The 63 S destined for Australia rides on 22-inch wheels, one inch up from the standard 21” rims on the non-S version.

The flared wheelarches, side skirts and exterior mirrors are finished in the vehicle’s body colour, while the black diffuser, rear apron and fluted quad-exit exhaust give the 63 S further visual differentiation.

Inside, the hi-po GLE scores AMG seats with nappa leather upholstery and AMG logos in the backrests, grey seatbelts and contrast stitching, ambient lighting, a three-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel wrapped in nappa leather and Dinamica microfibre, stainless-steel sports pedals, door sill panels and black floor mats, and a range of AMG-specific buttons and dials for the ESP program, damping, performance exhaust and manual transmission mode.

Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment system with twin 12.3-inch digital displays is included as standard, and features AMG-specific displays that include readouts such as engine and transmission oil temperature, g-forces, lap timer and engine output.

More details on the GLE63 S Coupe including local pricing and specification will be revealed closer to the model’s arrival in the third quarter of the year.