For the latest Mercedes GLE 63 S pricing and information:
https://www.kbb.com/mercedes/gle/



Not too long ago, I shot a very comprehensive review of the 4th generation Mercedes-Benz GLE. If you’re in the market, it’s worth a look. Think of this video as a quick GLE update slash excuse to drive a silly fast SUV. Honestly, not much has changed with the GLE for 2021, aside from the addition of a Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 (429 hp) and this Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S (603hp) to the lineup.


As a reminder, the GLE is Mercedes’ entry into the midsize SUV realm. Competitors include the BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Porsche Cayenne. Or if you want to save some cash, the Genesis GV80, Acura MDX, or Lincoln Aviator. Any of those alternatives could serve you just fine but the GLE has something they don’t.


Yes, this is the priciest rendition of GLE but there really isn’t a bad version. Practically speaking, there is plentiful space for people, though I wish the rear seatback angles were adjustable. For cargo, the GLE can swallow 38.2 cu-ft behind the 2nd row, which is a perfectly respectable number.

Another respectable number is 255, that’s the horsepower count for the base turbocharged 2.0-cylinder engine (2.0 Turbo I4 255hp, 273lb-ft).

Oh, but we’re living that Blue Book life with this AMG GLE 63 S (4.0 Turbo V8 603hp, 627 lb-ft). Its 4-liter V8 features EQ Boost, which is basically a mild hybrid system teamed with an electric compressor that supplements the turbocharger to deliver more power more quickly.

Let’s put that V8 power to good use. Mercedes claims 3.7 seconds to 60. Yeah, that sounds about right.

Bridging the gap between the base GLE350 and the racier Mercedes-AMG 53 and 63 S are two more engine choices…because you can never have enough engine choices.

Regardless of the engine, all GLEs come with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Though, paddle shifters only come on the 63 S. 4-wheel drive are also ubiquitous through the lineup, excluding the base sub-$55,000 GLE350, which comes with rear-wheel drive.

If you want a limited-slip rear differential, you’ll need to get this GLE 63 S. Also, get a 63 S if you’d like an AMG Performance steering wheel, these AMG Drive Unit steering wheel buttons, truly awful fuel economy (GLE 63 S: 15city/19hwy), or AMG Track Pace, a feature that uses a smartphone app to coach faster laps out of you at more than 60 race circuits stored in the infotainment system.


If, like a sane human, you’d rather drive your midsize SUV on the public roads, you’ll be pleased to know the GLE expresses a dignified driving nature.

It’s quiet with a plush, well-controlled ride enhanced by the air suspension found on higher models. Though some of that plushness is sacrificed for handling prowess with the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension found on our tester
It sure feels like this thing should be leaning.

For a heavy SUV, the 63 S clings and hustles…like an emotionally needy DJ. Consider this a victory of engineering over physics.

It’s neat how much speed you can carry through bends in this midsize SUV. It’s also neat experiencing the precise feel of the variable ratio AMG-specific steering rack.
Oh, good. The brakes work well too.


On a sad note, the E-Active Body Control suspension with the bounce mode you might’ve seen on YouTube is no longer offered on the GLE.


If you like the GLE but think it looks too boxy and has too much cargo space, the GLE Coupe is your answer. And yes, you can also get the coupe with the 53 and 63 S engines.

If you want to keep things basic-ish you can nab a GLE 350 for under $55k but, Mercedes being Mercedes, you can also fling piles of money at your GLE for an indulgence like a Nappa leather diamond-stitched interior, massaging heated front seats flanked by heated front armrests, a rich-sounding Burmester audio system, this $1,500 carbon fiber engine cover, and 22-inch AMG wheels ($2,750) with Michelin Pilot sport tires that actually have a decent amount of sidewall. Cool.

If you’re wondering, this particular GLE 63 S pings the register at a cool $133,810 including destination charges. Before we wrap up, let’s talk about the infotainment system.

The MBUX infotainment interface could be more intuitive but at least they give you choices for how to control it. Touchscreen. Futuristic controller. Swipe pads on the steering wheel.

In practice, the system works well enough with some experience. And I do like the use of themes that change a range of vehicle parameters with a single screen press. Oh, and who could forget our favorite voice activation protocol.
“Hey, Mercedes” demo.


Among midsize luxury SUVs, there are plenty of lovely and often cheaper choices.

But if you love Mercedes-Benz, you want an SUV, and you’ve got the cash to pay for it, the GLE should make you happy…especially if it has 603 horsepower.

00:00 2021 Mercedes GLE 63 S
0:40 Engine
0:53 Competitors
1:10 Interior
2:21 Driving Impressions
5:23 Pricing