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I recently bought a GLE 450 with "standard suspension lowered", whatever that is. Probably just the standard steel suspension. My last car was a sedan on standard suspension as well so I can't really complain about the ride quality in this one.
I have these 20" AMG rims which I'm not a fan of in terms of looks. It's not just the size. I just don't like the design.
I love the looks of the 21" AMG rims but I`m afraid they'll make the car feel more stiff and degrade the ride quality. I`ve found opinions of people with 21" wheels saying they're ok but they were on airmatic. Can anyone with steel suspension share their experience?
My other options are aftermarket 20" wheels. I've actually seen some nice AEZ made for the GLE with the exact OEM specs (front: 9x20 et44 rear: 9x20 et57 - 5 x 112, 66.6mm diameter).
I've also been looking at other 20" oem options but I don't know if they'll fit my car. I`m talking about the 20" AMG rims for the GLE 53. Their specs are a bit different: 9,5 x 20 ET45 | 9,5 x 20 ET57 - 5 x 112, 66.6mm diameter.
What would you chose? I`m more inclined to go with the 21" amg wheels and keep these 20" for winter. I just don't know if the wife and kid who both travel in the back will appreciate the change.
Ride quality is always difficult to quantify. I have the 21's on the stock steel springs and I find the ride quality to be fine with the Pirelli non-runflats. At no point have I regretted not getting the air suspension, but I know there are several owners here who wouldn't own a GLE without the air. I run 20's in the winter, and the ride improves marginally. (It would improve more with the right tire, of course.)
If you're considering aftermarket, I recommend you take a look at Mandrus wheels as well (TSW's line exclusively for Mercedes). My 20's are Mandrus and I was able to find an ideal fitment mixing different front and rear offsets - all using the same length lug bolts.
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Rim options, 20" 21", OEM, aftermarket
