Mercedes-AMG has unleashed its latest in potent performance models based on the GLE in the South African market – and the GLE 63 S and GLE 63 S Coupé are set to build on a 22-year-old tradition of setting new standards in the Premium SUV and Coupé SUV segment.
Back in 1999, what was then known as the M-Class saw the mighty ML 55 as the top model in the range, with a 255 kW V8 engine. Today’s Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S range again features state-of-the-art engine technology, with an AMG 4.0litre V8 Biturbo engine generating 450 kW.
This is combined with the luxury SUV features that we have come to expect from Mercedes-Benz – good all-round visibility, plenty of space for passengers and luggage, high-quality materials and the latest driving assistance, infotainment and connectivity functions.
“Our new GLE Performance models are embarking on another new chapter of our drive technology, which we are also extending to other model series, as we move towards electrification and hybridisation. With our new premium SUVs, our customers can look forward to an unrivalled package of driving performance, high day-to-day suitability, optimum traction on and comfort on long journeys,” says Johannes Fritz, Co-CEO for Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Mercedes-Benz Cars.
The exterior design of the new AMG GLE is muscular and distinctive, with specific radiator grilles with vertical louvres boldly affirming its membership of the AMG model family. The side skirts, exterior mirror housings and flared wheel arches are painted in the vehicle colour, and seamlessly blend into the muscular overall look.
Different wheel and tyre combinations cover all on and off-road requirements. The GLE base model is shod with 21-inch light-alloy wheels with AMG lettering as standard and 22-inch wheels as an optional extra. The Coupé comes standard with 22-inch wheels. Other wheel variants with diameters from 21 to 22 inches are optionally available.
The high-quality interior is characteristically sporty. AMG-specific interior appointments and controls lend the cockpit a hallmark AMG atmosphere and support sporty, precise handling. The latest generation, three-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles impresses with its optimum driver-oriented ergonomics. AMG seats are upholstered in Exclusive Nappa Leather, as a standard and individually adjustable ambient lighting also comes as standard, and the second seat row is optionally available with full electric adjustment.
The vehicle functions are directly visualised on the instrument cluster on the left side and on the touchscreen display on the right and visually blend into a Widescreen Cockpit. The centre console has an AMG-specific control panel with additional switches with which the 3-stage ESP®, manual transmission mode, the adaptive damping adjustment, the optional AMG Performance exhaust system and the suspension level can be controlled.
Mercedes’ MBUX control and display concept creates an even closer bond between the vehicle, driver and passengers, with the latest version of the infotainment system contributing to the great day-to-day practicality. Through the innovative voice control – activated with the phrase ‘Hey Mercedes’ – the AI software recognises and understands practically all commands common in infotainment and vehicle control.
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