Ride Here, Ride Now
Many people are looking for a super performance vehicle, but still wish to have a useful mode of transportation. In the Mercedes world, the initials AMG attached to their models will give you the high-performance spin. With the AMG GLE63, the owner receives all the everyday sensibilities, but with lightning acceleration and super handling. And as one would hope, the interior is both luxurious and practical.
On the styling front, the classic Mercedes grille, like other AMG models, has the Mercedes semi-star in the center. Large, modern-looking headlights are nicely integrated around the grille. Super large 22-inch alloy wheels with red brake calipers behind them give off the performance spin look. In a more typical fashion, the rear view has a large rear window with a spoiler above it.
With the typical AMG goal, Mercedes has inserted a powerful engine. The 4.0-liter, V-8 with twin turbochargers produces 603 horsepower and is attached to a 9-speed automatic transmission sending power to all four wheels. Zero-to-60 time is a mere 3.7 seconds, and the top speed is 174 miles per hour. The suspension is adjustable for both ride and cornering functions with various electronic screen buttons. Interestingly, the exhaust sound can be likewise adjusted from total silence to a throaty, deep exhaust note.
As one would expect with this brand, the interior is leather-lined and luxurious. Even though Mercedes calls this model a coupe, it is a very practical tall luxury four-door SUV. In the back is a large liftgate that can be opened with a foot sweep under the rear bumper, if the key is in your possession. The liftgate quickly opens revealing a large nicely lined flat storage area. A cover can be closed to hide items from view. And for additional storage, the rear seats are split 40/20/40 and are easily dropped as needed. The back seats are surprisingly roomy with plenty of legroom and headroom. And there is a huge glass moonroof that stretches from the front seat to pass the back seat. Air vents, storage bins, and an armrest with cupholders are provided for the rear occupants.
Perhaps more entertaining, the front two seats are infinitely adjustable and face two-foot-long, large video screens. Essentially, the middle screen controls many entertaining and practical functions. Of course, there are video cameras surrounding the vehicle. Besides showing a 360-degree image around the vehicle, you adjust the video image by touch. A 3D clear navigation system gives the driver an outstanding view of the area he or she is traveling. Numerous other video features and views are available.
On the road the ride and suspension are clearly adjustable from soft and absorbing to performance oriented for great cornering. No matter which setting is chosen, the steering is direct and to the point. Likewise, generally the interior is silent when traveling, unless the driver selects a more robust exhaust note.
The bottom line is that this Mercedes provides the owner with useful features and a high level of performance in nearly any situation with a push of the video screen “buttons.”
MERCEDES-BENZ AMG GLE63 S: HIGHLIGHTS
MODEL // 5-passenger SUV
POWERTRAIN // Twin turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine, 603 hp, 9-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive
FUEL // City 15 mpg, highway 19 mpg, combined 16 mpg
PERFORMANCE // 0-60: 3.7 seconds, top speed: 174 mph
PRICE // $127,700, as tested $134,290