Many years ago I was a rather avid motorcycle enthusiast. I would grab a copy of the country's leading motorcycle magazine every month and mull over it for hours but it wasn't long before I stopped doing this because of a single writer. Yes, one single journalist's writing style and copy infuriated me so much that the magazine lost a reader in the process. I'm reminded of that as I sit down to tell you about the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe.
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I've made my stance and opinion rather clear regarding performance SUVs and the use of the word 'coupe' when attached to something with more than 2-doors. So I will spare you that narrative and try to remain as objective as is humanly possible as I discuss this latest offering from Mercedes-Benz' performance division.
It was around this time in 2019 when I first got to sample the W167 Mercedes-Benz GLE range. A spiritual successor to the M-Class of the 1990s, renamed because BMW objected to three numerals succeeding the letter 'M', the GLE-Class retains much of its original off-road prowess while managing to offer a luxurious drive when you're opting for tarmac instead. Let's face it, the GLE-Class will spend 99.99% of its driven life on the road.
And that's where their latest creation steps in; available in 3.0-litre, straight-six guise in the 53, or as a 4.0-litre V8 in the 63 S, the Mercedes-AMG GLE range is the heavyweight behemoth that takes the fight to the likes of the BMW X6 M and new Audi RS Q8, amongst others.
Styling
Imposing is probably the best word to use to describe the GLE 63 S Coupe. The towering stance is complemented by the upright slats of the Panamericana grille and the large air dam element, the latter creating an angry scowl that makes the AMG-version instantly recognisable. In addition to the front end treatment, side skirts and extended wheel arches are offset by the black 22-inch multispoke wheels with the slightest of polished lips. Coupe models get the 22s as standard fitment while the 53 gets 21-inch items.
The side steps on our test model implied that the GLE is capable off-road, but in all actuality, this only made alighting the vehicle a little less cumbersome.
At the back, a similar sense of purpose is created with a generous black diffuser element and quad exit exhausts, all rounded off with LED lighting details. The DRLs up front, shaped like two hockey sticks, do duty in the LED headlights.
Interior & Space
The interior of the GLE 63 S doesn't change too much from the regular GLE-Class but does see the addition of carbon fibre trims, as evident in our test model. You're still getting the masculine squared-off air vents, leather-bound grab handles in the centre console and variable ambient lighting. The AMG Sport steering wheel breaks the theme with brushed aluminium detailing and the AMG controls resting between the spokes.
There's no shortage of space and legroom in the GLE 63 S and even rear headroom is favourable, despite the coupe-like rake to the rear window. Boot space is as generous, but it's here where the rear window encroaches. You will be able to load larger items in the regular version, but for most activities, the Coupe will suffice.
Comfort & Convenience
While much of the interior is standard GLE fare, the AMG version does get sport seats with partial Artico leather and microfibre DINAMICA trim. These seats are more than supportive and will also offer the required comfort for longer journeys. They feature electric adjustment and memory function, along with heating, cooling and massage function. The rear seats can also be specified with electric adjustment, should one so wish.
The large, dual-screen MBUX infotainments system not only allows for spoken commands with the "Hey Mercedes" command but dive a little deeper and you will find that this is more than just your garden-variety infotainment system. The AMG models feature a dedicated AMG settings screen where you are able to tweak the parameters of various controls to your liking. From this screen, you are able to adjust the suspension, ESP, gearbox and steering settings for a truly tailored experience.
Performance
It's the heart of the beast that is the most impressive. The twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 nestled under the bonnet makes a glorious noise as it produces no less than 450 kW and a colossal 850 Nm torque. As if that wasn't enough, for the first time, this engine is supplemented by a mild-hybrid system that sees an EQ Boost starter-alternator provide an additional 16 kW of power. Combined you get a total of 466 kW.
This power plant is mated to a 9-speed 9G-Tronic gearbox and sends power to all four wheels through the 4MATIC+ AWD system that helps it claw its way from a standstill to 100 km/h in only 3.8-seconds. Despite my reservations about the concept, one has to admire the feat of engineering that is making a 2445 kg monstrosity achieve acceleration figures such as these. It truly is amazing. One only has to wonder what would happen if they were to shave off several hundred kilos. You know, by putting it in a real coupe.
Fuel Economy
Performance like this comes at a price and in the GLE 63 S Coupe 4MATIC+, it's to the tune of a claimed 11.5 l/100km. This number certainly appears palatable, but any sort of enthusiasm will see that number skyrocket towards the heavens. The GLE 63 S is only economical if driven sedately where the Cylinder-Shutoff system can work as intended by shutting off four of the eight cylinders to save you fuel.
Safety
The GLE range as a whole is rather safe and in the AMG version it's no different. A wash of driver assistance systems makes driving considerably more enjoyable and stress-free. Drivers will benefit from Active Brake Assist, Cornering and Cross-Traffic Function, End of Tailback Emergency Brake Function, Evasive Steering Assist; Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Exit Warning Function; PRE-SAFE PLUS and Traffic Sign Assist.
A total of 9 airbags can be found inside, ensuring that all the passengers, front and rear, are adequately catered for.
Price
The GLE 63 S Coupe is a statement, one that costs a pretty penny. You'll need R2 970 920 before even thinking of sliding behind the wheel of one and that's before you tailor it to your specification. Mercedes-AMG has done well to eliminate much of the options list, including more in the base price, but you will still want a few of the additional creature comforts.
Competitors
Straight off the bat, the BMW X6 M springs to mind, as does the Audi RS Q8, but you can also look at the Land Rover Range Rover portfolio, probably a Range Rover Sport SVR, as well as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo Coupe if it has to be a coupe-like SUV.
Verdict
As much as I detest the performance SUV concept, Mercedes-AMG's approach seems to be the pick of the recent releases. The coupe styling isn't for everyone and personally, I prefer the look of the regular GLE. But one could do a lot worse if they were to spend R3-million on a luxury SUV. There's not much that will come close to it on the performance front and the raised driving position does make you feel invincible. You'll definitely have to exercise restraint with this one.
