Hi all

About to return a lease in 2 months and narrowed it down to a low miles RangeRover sports (with i6) and Audi Q8 (i6). However, I saw a white amg gle 53 coupe at my work parking lot and it really peaked my interest.
I've never owned a MB ever so I guess this never crossed my mind. Won't be a people carrior..kids are college bound so mainly 2 passengers on an empty long road. I'm not interested in the SUV. The coupe really stands out like a ugly ducking..lol.

I've owned a RRS in the past and had no issues (up till 52k when I traded it in). However, the i6 is not punchy and it drives more like a giant ship with wheels. I do not like the new gen which is less aggressive and CPO prices have climbed up to 90k (plus tariffs on LR in US).

I've seen a low miles (13k) '25 AMG GLE 53 coupe locally (red interior) with the i6 engine. On paper, it sounds a lot better as it pushes over 400 horses. Dealer is asking for $82k but I can hassle it down to under $80 (factory warranty remainging plus one yr CPO on top).. This one does NOT have the air suspension either so not sure if that's a good thing or not.

I won't be doing any towing ..mostly 2 adults and 2 college kids during their summer break. I saw today MB revealed the new gen so I hope dealer starts discounting the reminder of the '26.

Is there any glaring issue on these vehicles? I'm planning to keep this around at least till 60k. I found out Audi has 2 major issues that Audi is now covering under extended warranty..premature water pump failure and engine skirt has metal filings from factory...either issue is a stalled vehicle so I've written Audi out as I read some people had these outside warranty and had to pay out of pocket (especially the water pump).

I test drove X5 but it's too compact, especialy rear seats but interior is just ok, not to mention every soccer mom in my area drives one. Bother Audi Q8/GLE interior looks and feels more luxurious than bmw.

Any owners here? Feedback?
TIA!

I've had only a minor issue with the power windows not going quite all the way up. Other than that, no issues.

I had compared the MB to the BMW and also felt the BMW to be lacking in the interior. I have no regrets with my 2025 GLE 53 Coupe. In hindsight, I would have ordered it to get precisely what I wanted. I love the air ride on mine and have had no issues with it. Mine did not come with the tow pkg, and I do tend to occasionally tow.

If you decide to go with a new one, you will probably have to settle for what is on the lot. Remember to shop dealers as well as the "right" one for you. First dealer I went to would only come $500 off MSRP. I had done my homework and knew what I wanted to pay. Second dealer quoted me that price immediately.

If you are looking at the white/red as a possibility, look at what features it has or doesn't have. Do a build on a new 2026 on the MBUSA.com to see what all is offered. Also, which white is it? There is MANUFAKTUR Moonlight White metallic like mine, or the Polar White.

Kudos on your Gladiator. I loved my Mojave until I traded it in on the 392 Wrangler. Keep hoping that Jeep puts a V8 in the JT soon and I may get one or go the AMW route. Whatever you decide, good luck.