Mercedes GLE AMG. The perfect companion for everyday life
The Mercedes GLE AMG is a powerful sports all-wheel drive version of the mid-size luxury E-class crossover from the German brand Mercedes-Benz, which has been produced since 2015. In 2020, the second generation of the 2019 model year SUV was available on the Israeli market.
The history of GLE SUVs is inextricably linked with the M-class because before it ML-class crossovers were produced. In 2015, Mercedes changed the nomenclature for entire crossover models. Now all crossovers start with GL, and the next letter means the class of the car. So the ML of the third generation after the facelift in 2015 received the GLE codename. It means requisite to the medium-sized E-class. It became the first representative of the GLE-class. The same goes for AMG versions.
First generation
Produced from 2015 to 2019. In fact, the Mercedes-AMG version of the GLE was unveiled on 14 November 2011 and officially debuted at the Los Angeles Auto Show on 18 November. And then it was called ML 63 AMG. Subsequently, after the facelift in 2015, this model began to be considered the first generation of the AMG GLE-class.
Based on the bulk with codename W166, the car received the latest safety technologies and a modernized exterior and interior design in accordance with the new trends in automotive design. Compared to the regular version of the M-class, the first generation Mercedes GLE AMG is 8 mm closer to the ground, and its weight has increased by 35 kg compared to the previous generation ML 63 AMG with a W164 bulk. But the engine output has also increased. The new 5461 cc M157 V8 engine with an aluminum block, twin turbochargers, and direct injection delivered 525 hp and 700 Nm of torque. For comparison – the predecessor’s 6.2-liter V8 engine developed 510 and 630 hp, respectively. At the same time, a modified 7-speed sports transmission with an original program control transmitted traction to both axles. It accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 0.2 - 4.8 seconds. Top speed remained the same – 250 km/h. Combined fuel consumption fell from 16.5 liters per 100 km to 14.7 liters.
The chassis was equipped with the Active Curve System. It prevents body roll in real-time thanks to active anti-roll bars with hydraulic locks at the front and rear. In addition, AMG engineers have retuned suspension elastokinematics and the air suspension control program. Unlike the M-class, the ML 63 AMG received a new electromechanical power steering instead of the electric one.
In 2015, the car was facelifted. The M-class was renamed GLE. The optics were changed; massive lamella appeared on the radiator grille and a new front bumper. The taillights have become a more organic continuation of the general line of the model’s style. The interior center console was reorganized for a modern version of the COMAND multimedia system.
New Mercedes AMG GLE 63 S 2020 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds!
Plus the impact of AMG models has been increased. The high-performance version of the GLE 63 AMG is equipped with a bi-turbocharged V8 engine, accelerating the crossover from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. The most powerful version of the GLE 63 AMG S was equipped with the same power unit, but with some modifications, as a result of which the car had a power of 585 hp and 760 Nm of torque. SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h 4.2 seconds. Top speed in both variants was electronically limited to 250 km/h.
Second generation
Produced from 2019 to present (data for 2020). First in October 2018, at the Paris Motor Show, the second-generation GLE was presented with the bulk codename V167. The crossover has received a new and modern corporate design, a completely redesigned interior, and many new functions and systems that make this car even more comfortable and convenient to drive. It was equipped with a stereo camera, like the S-class, which scans the road surface, preparing the suspension for the upcoming bumps. In March 2019, a sports version of the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 crossover was presented at the Geneva Motor Show and in November 2019, GLE 63 and GLE 63 S were demonstrated in Los Angeles.
The 2020 GLE 53 AMG is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3-liter 435 hp petrol engine. GLE 63 and GLE 63 S have a 4-liter engine with 571 hp and 612 hp, respectively. The most powerful version accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds! The 2020 GLE 63 AMG engines work in conjunction with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The torque is transmitted to all wheels thanks to the 4Matic all-wheel drive system, which distributes the torque mainly to the front axle – 60 to 40 percent.
The independent air suspension is very comfortable and at the same time does an excellent job of cornering. The suspension practically does not differ from the civilian version, but the AMG suspension is slightly stiffer because the car is sports. The stiffness of the suspension can be adjusted with the selector in the cabin. The chassis is equipped with a roll suppression system. The crossover stops literally instantly, this is helped by huge disc brakes with ventilation and perforation in a circle.
Powerful engines, innovative drive technology, and sporty design make the new Mercedes GLE AMG the ideal companion in everyday life. The 2020 crossover has a serious appearance, looks presentable, and at the same time aggressive.
In front of the new Mercedes GLE AMG – branded LED optics from Mercedes, a raised cowl, a huge radiator grille with a chrome strip, a bumper with branded air intakes – everything looks cool! Sideways there are plastic pads along the entire perimeter, which indicates the possibility of off-road driving. There is a small stamping in the middle of the bulk, the car window is with chrome edging. Also, the manufacturer worked on aerodynamics, since this is a sports car. At the back there is stylish narrow optics, the luggage compartment lid forms a spoiler shape (great for aerodynamics). Above the optics, there is a chrome-plated horizontal insert. The bumper has a massive diffuser at the bottom, into which small tailpipes of the exhaust system are elegantly inserted.
