AMG GLE 53 Coupe

Segment
SUV

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLE SUV and GLE Coupe have been refreshed for the upcoming model year with revised front-end styling, new wheels and paint options, upgraded standard features, improved suspension software, and enhanced performance for the GLE 53. Let's start with the styling.

The 53 models' new front fascia boasts slick side air intakes inspired by a jet-wing design that's intended to make them more closely resemble the 63 S models. The AMG emblem is also now placed on the hood, a styling trait that'll appear on all future AMG vehicles. Out back you'll find new LED taillights. Buyers also have two new paint colors to select from, Manufaktur Alpine Grey and Twilight Blue Metallic. The GLE 63 S Coupe now comes standard with new 22-inch forged wheels featuring a cool twin-twin-spoke design. GLE 63 S SUV styling upgrades, in general, are less overt.

The interior remains largely unchanged from last year but AMG did add two new leather upholstery colors, Bahia Brown/Black and Macchiato Beige/Black. High-Gloss Brown Linden or Manufaktur Piano Black Flowing Lines trim are also available. More importantly, the GLE AMGs both benefit from the latest version of the MBUX infotainment system that features an AMG-specific screen design.

The list of standard equipment has significantly grown as well. Some of these features for the GLE 53 models include the selectable AMG Performance exhaust system, MBUX Augmented Reality for Navigation, Memory and Parking Assistance Packages, and leather upholstery with heated and ventilated front seats. Things like an electric panoramic sliding sunroof, heated front seats, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, and a Burmester surround sound system remain standard fare.

Regardless of which body style and model, buyers will get a standard AMG Performance steering wheel with round drive unit buttons that are quick and easy to use in order to allow drivers to access the driving modes without having to remove their hands from the wheel. Interestingly, a heated steering wheel is optional and it's also available with a carbon fiber design, if that's your thing.

Regardless of body style, GLE 63 S owners will get the now-standard Air Balance Package that tacks on multi-contour front seats and a head-up display. Also standard is the MBUX Interior Assistant and logo projector, a nifty system with a unique brand animation that functions when the front doors are opened.

Under the hood, the 53 models retain the 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 429 horsepower but AMG engineers have increased torque from 384 lb-ft to 413 lb-ft thanks to a software update and a bigger turbocharger. 0-60 mph now happens in 4.9 seconds, instead of the previous 5.2 seconds. The 63 S also has the same engine as before: that lovely, hand-built 4.0-liter bi-turbo V8 with 603 hp. 0-60 takes a scant 3.7 seconds.

Some software fine-tuning was done to improve the ESP, electronically-controlled rear-axle limited-slip diff, and the 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive and suspension control systems. Both engines still remain partially electrified by a 48-volt Integrated Starter Generator (ISG), which essentially combines the starter and alternator into a single electric motor that's located between the engine and nine-speed automatic gearbox. The ISG also provides an additional 21 hp for both engines, as well as 148 lb-ft and 184 lb-ft extra twist for the 53 and 63 S, respectively. AMG says the 53 has a top speed of 155 mph while the 63 S tops off at 174 mph.

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG 53 and 63 S SUV and Coupe will be in US dealerships later this year. Pricing has yet to be announced.