The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe emerges as a striking embodiment of sporty elegance fused with formidable performance and versatile capabilities. This dynamic vehicle redefines the coupe SUV segment, seamlessly blending the alluring silhouette of a coupe with the robust DNA of a Mercedes SUV. For automotive enthusiasts and discerning drivers alike, the GLE 53 Coupe represents a compelling proposition, delivering an exhilarating driving experience without compromising on luxury or practicality.
Alt text: Front view of the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe showcasing its signature AMG grille and powerful stance.
Expressive Exterior Design: A Muscular Statement
The exterior of the 2021 GLE 53 Coupe is a powerful declaration of AMG Driving Performance. The most immediate indicator of its AMG pedigree is the distinctive, brand-specific radiator grille, a hallmark feature that proudly announces its membership within the high-performance family. The coupe form factor is executed with panache, its sleek, sloping roofline and confident stance creating an undeniable visual appeal. Lines that speak of passion and dynamism are evident throughout, further emphasized by the sculpted powerdomes on the hood, hinting at the potent engine beneath.
Attention to detail elevates the design; elements like the iconic Mercedes star encased in a double ring, sharply styled, slim headlamps, and the assertive “A-wing” design of the front bumper all contribute to a more refined and aggressive aesthetic. The front bumper itself boasts AMG-specific characteristics, including sporty outer air inlets, each adorned with twin side louvers in silver chrome, contrasted with black accents. The front splitter, mirroring the air inlet louvers in its silver chrome finish, further accentuates the vehicle’s sporting intent.
Alt text: Dynamic side view of the 2021 Mercedes GLE 53 Coupe AMG, emphasizing its coupe roofline, flared wheel arches, and standard AMG 21-inch wheels.
The AMG side skirts and trunk lid spoiler are finished in body color, creating a cohesive and streamlined appearance. Flared wheel arches not only add to the muscular stance but also accommodate substantial wheels – impressive 21-inch wheels with prominent AMG lettering come as standard. For those seeking an even bolder visual statement, optional 21-inch and 22-inch wheel designs are available. The rear of the GLE 53 Coupe receives equal attention, with a newly designed bumper featuring AMG-specific details such as a striking diffuser and a silver chrome trim strip, amplifying its powerful presence. The dedicated AMG exhaust system, complete with round twin-tailpipe trim elements finished in high-gloss chrome, reinforces the sporty and dominant character. For a further layer of personalization, the optional AMG Night package introduces high-gloss black elements, including the front splitter, bumper trim, diffuser, mirror caps, window frames, and exhaust tailpipe trim, creating a more menacing and distinctive look.
Progressive and Robust Interior Elegance
Stepping inside the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe reveals an interior that seamlessly continues the AMG design philosophy, blending high-quality materials with sporty accents. Unique color highlights, such as striking red contrast stitching and vibrant red seat belts, inject a sporty ambiance with an exclusive touch. The AMG seats, upholstered in black MB-Tex / DINAMICA microfiber, are designed for optimal lateral support during spirited driving and feature an AMG-specific pattern, complete with “AMG” badges integrated into the front backrests.
The latest generation AMG Performance steering wheel, with its three-spoke design, aluminum shift paddles, and driver-focused ergonomics, invites enthusiastic engagement. AMG stainless steel sports pedals, equipped with rubber studs, and black floor mats proudly displaying “AMG” lettering further emphasize the sporty character of the cabin. For those seeking to personalize the interior further, a comprehensive range of leather upholstery options and premium interior trim elements are available. Notably, the optional AMG Carbon Fiber trim elements introduce a particularly sporty and high-tech feel to the interior environment.
Alt text: Detailed interior of the 2021 Mercedes GLE Coupe AMG 53 highlighting the AMG Performance steering wheel, digital instrument cluster, MBUX infotainment screen, and sporty red accents.
Agile and Precise Handling: AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL
To further elevate the driving dynamics, the 2021 GLE 53 Coupe offers the optional AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL, building upon the foundation of AMG RIDE CONTROL+. A key innovation within this system is the active roll stabilization, employing two independent, electro-mechanical actuators at both the front and rear axles. This sophisticated system actively minimizes body roll during cornering, resulting in more precise handling and improved control during changes in load. Furthermore, it enhances ride comfort during straight-line driving by effectively counteracting uneven road surfaces. Body movements are actively adapted to the prevailing driving conditions, significantly enriching the overall driving experience.
Compared to conventional hydraulic-based systems, AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL boasts a significantly faster response time, with the AMG control unit capable of adapting to driving conditions up to 1000 times per second. This rapid response translates to more immediate and nuanced control. Moreover, the new system offers a notable advantage in terms of weight reduction, contributing to the vehicle’s overall agility.
Air Suspension with Continuously Adjustable Damping
The AMG RIDE CONTROL air suspension, based on AIRMATIC, was meticulously engineered in Affalterbach to deliver a driving experience that balances long-distance comfort with exceptional agility. The sporty spring and damper setup, combined with adaptively adjustable damping, ensures an optimal blend of dynamic handling and a high degree of ride comfort. Drivers can pre-select damping characteristics through three modes: “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport+,” allowing for a clear distinction between relaxed cruising and dynamic driving. In addition, two new levels, “Trail” and “Sand,” are introduced for enhanced off-road capability.
Thanks to the pneumatic all-around level control, the GLE 53 Coupe maintains a consistent ride height regardless of vehicle load. In AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs “Sport” and “Sport+,” the vehicle level is automatically lowered by 0.6 inches. In “Comfort” mode, this lowering occurs automatically from a speed of 75 mph, reducing aerodynamic drag and consequently improving fuel efficiency. Handling stability is also enhanced due to the lower center of gravity. Conversely, to increase ground clearance on uneven terrain or steep inclines, the suspension level can be raised by up to 2.2 inches at the touch of a button, both when stationary and at speeds up to 43 mph.
Optimized Steering and High-Performance Braking
The electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering features a variable ratio, offering direct steering response and precise feedback. Steering power assistance is adjustable across two stages, “Comfort” and “Sport,” automatically activated based on the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive program. Personalized settings can also be configured within the “Individual” drive program.
The high-performance braking system provides reliable and consistent deceleration, ensuring short braking distances. The front brakes feature internally ventilated and perforated integral brake discs with a substantial 15.75-inch diameter, paired with 2-piston fixed calipers finished in silver with black AMG lettering. At the rear, internally ventilated integral brake discs measure 13.6 inches in diameter and are equipped with 1-piston floating calipers.
Potent Six-Cylinder Engine with Turbocharging and EQ Boost
Powering the 2021 GLE 53 Coupe is an electrified 3.0-liter engine featuring turbocharging and an electric auxiliary compressor, the foundation of its signature AMG performance. This 6-cylinder in-line engine produces 429 hp and a maximum torque of 384 lb-ft. The integrated EQ Boost starter-generator provides an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque for brief periods, while also feeding the 48-volt onboard electrical system.
The EQ Boost starter-generator acts as both a starter and an alternator, integrated between the engine and transmission. This innovative technology, along with the intelligent charging electric auxiliary compressor and exhaust gas turbocharger, work in concert to enhance AMG performance and driving dynamics while simultaneously improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. The GLE 53 Coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 5.2 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.
Alt text: Close-up view of the engine compartment of the 2021 Mercedes GLE 53 Coupe AMG, highlighting the 3.0-liter inline-six turbo engine with EQ Boost technology and AMG badging.
Enhanced Power and Efficiency with EQ Boost and 48-Volt Technology
The electric auxiliary compressor ensures rapid build-up of boost pressure until the exhaust gas turbocharger becomes fully effective. This results in exceptional responsiveness and dynamic performance from the 3.0-liter engine, virtually eliminating turbo lag. The six-cylinder in-line engine is also characterized by its refined and smooth operation.
The EQ Boost starter-generator further enhances the GLE 53 Coupe, supplying power to the 48V on-board electrical system, which in turn also powers the conventional 12V system. The 48V battery increases the overall vehicle battery capacity, allowing for a greater supply of electrical energy. An additional benefit of the 48V system is that it requires only a quarter of the current compared to a traditional 12V system for the same power output, enabling thinner and lighter wiring, contributing to overall efficiency. The existing 12V system continues to power components such as lighting, the cockpit, infotainment displays, and control units.
The EQ Boost starter-generator is a central component of the 48V system, functioning not only as an alternator but also enabling hybrid functionalities. This allows for fuel savings previously associated with high-voltage hybrid technology. For the first time, the EQ Boost starter-generator also manages idle speed control. Hybrid functions encompass boosting, recuperation, load point adjustment, gliding, and seamless engine restarts with the start/stop function. The elimination of the belt drive for ancillary components at the front of the engine significantly reduces the installed length of the new six-cylinder engine compared to conventional designs, creating space for a highly efficient exhaust gas aftertreatment system positioned near the engine.
An optional, selectable AMG Performance exhaust system delivers a special acoustic experience. Variable adjustable exhaust flaps allow the driver to alter the vehicle’s sound character at the touch of a button, ranging from discreet to highly powerful depending on the selected drive program.
Maximum Traction: Fully Variable 4MATIC+ All-Wheel Drive
The 2021 GLE 53 Coupe is equipped with fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive for optimized traction and driving dynamics. This intelligent system continuously adjusts torque distribution between the permanently driven rear axle and the front axle, adapting to driving conditions and driver input. The all-wheel drive enhances both longitudinal and lateral dynamics, resulting in more powerful acceleration from a standstill and improved traction on corners and slippery surfaces.
Responsive AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G Transmission
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed automatic transmission (TCT = Torque-Converter Transmission) ensures rapid gear changes with exceptionally short shift times, delivering the quick acceleration expected of an AMG vehicle. Gear changes are executed swiftly, whether in automatic mode or manually using the steering wheel shift paddles. Upshifts and downshifts are virtually instantaneous. The transmission exhibits particularly dynamic and responsive behavior in “Sport+” drive program and manual mode.
Intelligent AMG DYNAMIC SELECT Drive Programs
The GLE 53 Coupe features seven AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs: “Slippery,” “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport+,” and “Individual,” complemented by two off-road settings: “Trail” and “Sand.” AMG DYNAMIC SELECT adjusts parameters such as engine and transmission responsiveness, accelerator pedal and steering feel, suspension damping, and even the vehicle’s sound. Selected via a rocker switch in the center console or optional AMG steering wheel buttons, the chosen program is displayed in the instrument cluster and multimedia display.
- “Slippery”: Optimized for slippery conditions, reducing power and flattening the torque curve for enhanced stability.
- “Comfort”: Prioritizes comfortable and fuel-efficient driving with early upshifts, and a comfort-focused suspension and steering setup.
- “Sport”: Delivers sporty characteristics with quicker accelerator response, shorter shift times, earlier downshifts, and more sport-oriented gearshifts with double-declutching. Features a more dynamic suspension and steering setup.
- “Sport+”: Provides extremely sporty characteristics with even more agile throttle response, increased acoustic emphasis during downshifts, selective torque control on upshifts with cylinder suppression for optimized shift times, increased idle speed for quicker starts, and a highly dynamic suspension, steering, and drivetrain setup.
- “Individual”: Allows for customized adjustment of the drive system, transmission, AMG DYNAMICS, suspension, and exhaust system.
- “Trail”: Designed for safe driving with enhanced performance on soft, muddy, or slippery terrain.
- “Sand”: Configured for optimal grip and steering control on sandy slopes and dunes.
AMG DYNAMICS vehicle dynamics control is integrated within the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs. Operating in “Basic,” “Advanced,” and “Pro” levels, it influences control strategies of systems like ESP® (Electronic Stability Program) and all-wheel drive. The intelligent system anticipates desired vehicle behavior based on driver input and sensor data, ranging from extremely stable to highly dynamic. Additionally, “Traction” and “Slide” levels are available in the off-road “Trail” and “Sand” modes when ESP® is deactivated.
MBUX Infotainment System with AMG-Specific Displays
The innovative MBUX control and display concept is standard in the GLE 53 Coupe, offering numerous AMG-specific functions. The Widescreen Cockpit seamlessly integrates the instrument cluster and touchscreen display into a single unit. Many functions can also be activated through the intelligent voice control system, “Hey Mercedes.”
The instrument cluster features AMG-specific details, including the AMG start-up menu and four selectable display styles: “Classic,” “Sport,” “Discreet,” and the AMG-exclusive “Supersport.” When AMG-specific DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs “Trail” and “Sand” are engaged, off-road-specific information such as slope, incline, and level can be displayed in the instrument cluster. Rocker switches in the center console provide direct access to display and control drive programs, transmission, suspension, ESP®, and the exhaust system.
AMG Performance Steering Wheel and TRACK PACE
The AMG Performance steering wheel, wrapped in black nappa leather with red contrast stitching and a red 12-o’clock marking, combines high functionality with premium feel and optimized ergonomics. Beyond the aluminum shift paddles, it features intuitive Touch Control buttons for controlling the entire infotainment system with swiping finger movements.
Optional innovative steering wheel buttons enhance functionality with a round controller and integrated display on the right spoke, and two vertical color display buttons on the left spoke. These enable direct activation and control of AMG drive programs from the steering wheel.
With optional AMG TRACK PACE, MBUX is augmented with a virtual racing engineer. AMG TRACK PACE records and analyzes up to 80 vehicle-specific data points and lap times on closed circuits. Real-time display of many values is available on the Widescreen Cockpit or optional head-up display. Drivers can analyze performance data to refine their driving skills. Acceleration and deceleration metrics (e.g., 0-60 mph, ¼ mile, 60-0 mph) can also be measured and saved. Custom circuits can be recorded and saved for future data logging. A newly developed algorithm ensures precise vehicle position detection, even recognizing circuit departures or shortcuts using GPS data and vehicle sensors (acceleration, gyroscope, steering angle, wheel speeds). The companion smartphone app expands AMG TRACK PACE functionality with video recording, video customization, photo capture, and social media sharing.
2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe: Technical Data at a Glance
| 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe | |
|---|---|
| Cylinders/arrangement | 6/in-line |
| Displacement (cc) | 2999 |
| Combustion engine output (hp) | 429 |
| at rpm | 6100 |
| Output from EQ Boost (hp) | 21 |
| Peak torque of combustion engine (lb-ft) | 384 |
| at rpm | 1800-5800 |
| Max. EQ Boost torque (lb-ft) | 184 |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph (s) | 5.2 |
| Top speed (mph) | 155* |
* Electronically limited
