Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe Expert Review

The refreshed Coupe gets updated LED headlamps with four DRL bars and a redesigned front bumper. AMG badging and revised tail-lamp internals complete the visual updates. Still, its sloping roofline, 21-inch wheels, and chunky 315mm rear tyres give it undeniable road presence. Design changes may be minimal, but this coupe remains a head-turner.

Inside, the only major change is the new Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel with twin controllers for drive and suspension modes. The cabin is luxurious and well-built, with top-quality materials and plenty of tech. Front seats offer ventilation but are firm. Rear-seat space is ample, though not as plush as in the standard GLE.

Powering it is a 3.0L inline-six turbo-petrol with 435hp and 560Nm, plus a new integrated starter-generator that adds 20hp and 200Nm. It sprints from 0–100kph in 5 seconds and hits a limited top speed of 250kph. Throttle response is sharp, and while it's quick to accelerate, its 2.3-tonne mass is noticeable during braking. Still, stopping power is strong with 400mm front and 370mm rear discs.

Efficiency isn’t a priority here. Driven spiritedly, expect fuel economy in the low single digits. Even with gentle highway cruising, it will struggle to reach double digits.

The air suspension with adjustable damping delivers surprising comfort, even on 21-inch wheels. In Sport and Sport+ modes, the Coupe feels agile and fun, masking its size well. With 4Matic+ AWD, fat tyres, and responsive steering, it handles corners confidently. It can also raise its ride height for mild off-roading, aided by helpful terrain readouts and the “invisible bonnet” camera feature.

The GLE 53 Coupe comes fully loaded. Unlike rivals that charge extra for key features, this SUV offers air suspension, ventilated seats, a Burmester audio system, head-up display, and more as standard—making it well-equipped for its segment.

At Rs 1.88 crore (ex-showroom), the GLE 53 Coupe is expensive, sitting above rivals like the Porsche Cayenne Coupe and Audi Q8. However, it offers significantly more power and more standard equipment. If you’re looking for a high-performance SUV that blends luxury, tech, and road presence, this AMG delivers, but at a premium.