Mercedes launches the new GLE coupe and AMG GLE53

Mercedes launched a new GLE Coupe as part of its strategy to address all the requirements of customers in the premium SUV segment.

The new GLE Coupe is a stately 4,939mm long and 2,010mm wide (39mm longer and 7mm wider than its predecessor). The wheelbase has grown by 20mm compared with the predecessor, but remains 60mm shorter than that of the GLE, which benefits its sporty handling as well as its appearance.

At the front a diamond radiator grille with the single horizontal louvre references the other coupes in the Mercedes-Benz range. Full LED headlamps come as standard, while an angled windscreen completes the vehicle's dynamic looks.

At the rear, a broad muscle now protrudes from the surface of the vehicle's side below the C-pillar, giving the car a powerful, ready-to-pounce look. Together with the slim and elongated tail lamps, it highlights the width of the tail end and visually plants the car onto the road.

The interior of the new GLE Coupe shares numerous common features with the other models in the new premium SUV family lineup.

The modern cockpit with two large 12.3-inch screens, the strikingly shaped instrument panel horizontally divided by a trim element tier, and seamlessly flowing into the door trim, will be familiar to many, while the SUV touch is added by the high centre console with the dominant grab handles.

The new GLE coupe's wheelbase is 20mm longer than the previous model, offering improvements to the interior dimensions, and adding to a better sense of spaciousness, while the boot now offers 655 litres of space, expanding to 1,790 with the seats folded.

Two versions of a 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel will be offered at launch, offering either 268bhp and 600Nm, or 325bhp and 700Nm of torque, coupled with Mercedes's 9G‑TRONIC automatic transmission.

As standard the new GLE Coupe is given steel spring suspension with a sportier and tauter tuning, while Mercedes's AIRMATIC air suspension system is available as an option for those seeking greater ride comfort.

When combined with E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL, the car can also individually control spring and damping forces at each wheel. This allows for effective counteracting of body roll, pitch and squat, while delivering high levels of road holding and comfort.

For those looking for a sportier drive however, Mercedes has also announced the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe.

Power is provided by an electrified 3.0-litre engine with twin turbocharging by a turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor. The in-line six-cylinder engine generates 429bhp and delivers a maximum torque of 520Nm. Its EQ Boost starter-alternator delivers an additional 22bhp and 250Nm of torque for a short period, and also feeds the 48V onboard electrical system.

The GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe accelerates from zero to 100km/h in just 5.3 seconds, and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h.

An AMG SPEEDSHIFT nine-speed automatic torque clutch transmission also ensures extremely short shift times, while power gets put to the road through an AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive for maximum traction and dynamism.

The new GLE Coupes from Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG will be presented to the public for the first time at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt.