The 2016 Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S Coupe 4MATIC is Gunning for a Certain Bimmer
No matter how you feel about it, the four-door crossover “coupe” segment is alive and well — for now, at least. Not only is Mercedes-Benz taking on the BMW X6, it’s taking on the high-performance X6 M. Say “hello” to the 2016 Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S Coupe 4Matic.
Contrary to rumors we heard late last year, the GLE63 will not use the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 from the upcoming C63 AMG. Instead, it will pack the familiar biturbo 5.5-liter eight we’ve grown to know and salivate over. That engine — all 577 horsepower and 561 pound-feet of it — will be paired with the AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission. 4MATIC all-wheel drive with a 40:60 front:rear power split will put the GLE63’s bonkers output to the ground. The three-pointed star has clocked its new rig doing the 0-60 mph dash in 4.2 seconds.
Our own Jonathon Klein was not impressed by the styling of the regular GLE Coupe. This AMG model keeps the chunky face and S-Class-ish rear end of its more sedate brother, but adds an “A-wing” to the lower front air inlet, a twin-louver grille, a rear diffuser, and a quartet of chrome-plated exhaust tips.
Inside, “perforated high-grade exclusive nappa leather upholstery and AMG crests in the head restraints lend the interior a special, luxurious note,” according to Mercedes. Drivers will be able to alter how their GLE63 performs by selecting one of the five modes (Slippery, Individual, Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus) offered by the Dynamic Select system, which adjusts parameters such as engine response, damper characteristics, and stability programming thresholds. Standard equipment includes the Surround View Camera System, a Harman Kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system, PRE-SAFE, a power liftgate, and Crosswind Assist.
You’ll be able to load up the GLE63 with optional features such as 22-inch cross-spoke wheels, a carbon fiber engine cover, a Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG stereo, carbon fiber/black piano lacquer trim, and/or a performance exhaust system.
Currently, there’s no word on prices or fuel economy ratings. That’s OK. At least we’ve got the following gallery of pics to enjoy.
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story and photos via [Autoblog]
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