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2024 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Specs
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Base Price
$103,850 USD (E1,377,375 SZL)
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PowerTrain
3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine with mild-hybrid assist | 9-speed automatic transmission | all-wheel drive
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Horsepower | Kilowatts
429 hp (320 kW)
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Torque
384 lb-ft @ 2,500-5,000 rpm (520 Nm @ 2,500-5,000 rpm)
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Seating Capacity
5
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Curb Weight
3,800 lbs (1,724 kg)
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Cargo Volume
384 lb-ft @ 2,500-5,000 rpm (520 Nm @ 2,500-5,000 rpm)
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Top Speed
177 mph (285 kph)
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Fuel Economy
17 mpg city / 22 mpg highway / 19 mpg combined
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Quick Take
Impressive handling for a large SUV, but the ride can be firm on rough roads.
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Design Score
7/10
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Handling Score
6/10
- Powerful and refined engine
- Spacious and comfortable interior
- Surprisingly practical for a performance SUV
- Fuel economy is below average for the class.
- The infotainment system might feel dated
- The ride can be firm on rough roads
Helpful Insights
Pros
Cons
What AutoTrends Thinks
The AutoTrends Verdict: A compelling blend, but competition awaits
A Well-Rounded Performer: AutoTrends finds the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 to be a compelling choice. It offers a strong combination of power, comfort, and practicality. The punchy engine and electric motor combo delivers exhilarating performance, making commutes and highway cruising enjoyable. The luxurious interior, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz, pampers passengers with high-quality materials, ample space, and cutting-edge technology. Additionally, the GLE 53 doesn't compromise on practicality. It boasts a spacious cargo area that can accommodate luggage for weekend getaways or gear for family adventures.
Considering the Competition: While the GLE 53 is a strong contender, the high-performance SUV segment is packed with worthy rivals. Potential buyers should explore options like the Porsche Cayenne GTS, which offers a thrilling driving experience with exceptional handling, or the BMW X5 M50i, which boasts a powerful V8 engine and a luxurious interior that rivals the Mercedes.
How Does It Hold Itself Against The Competition
Taking on the Titans: The GLE 53 in the Arena
The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 occupies a competitive space in the high-performance SUV segment. Two worthy rivals stand out: the Porsche Cayenne GTS and the BMW X5 M50i. Each offers a distinct blend of performance, handling, and driving experience, making the choice depend largely on your priorities.
The Porsche Cayenne GTS throws down the gauntlet with its razor-sharp handling. This SUV carves corners with precision, inspiring confidence and delivering a truly exhilarating driving experience. Porsche is renowned for its focus on driver engagement, and the Cayenne GTS exemplifies this philosophy. If you prioritize a sports-car-like feel in your high-rider, the Cayenne GTS is a compelling option.
Meanwhile, the BMW X5 M50i takes a different approach. It boasts a powerful V8 engine that delivers a visceral roar and thrilling acceleration. The X5 M50i prioritizes power and a sense of drama behind the wheel. While handling remains respectable, the focus leans more towards straight-line performance and a sense of raw power.
Ultimately, the choice between the GLE 53, Cayenne GTS, and X5 M50i hinges on your driving preferences. If you crave a balanced performance with a touch of luxury, the GLE 53 remains a strong contender. But for those who prioritize razor-sharp handling (Porsche) or a thrilling V8 experience (BMW), the competition offers distinct strengths to consider. Test driving each car will be crucial in determining which one best suits your driving style and what truly excites you on the road.
How Is Like Living With It?
Living with the AMG GLE 53: Practical Considerations
The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 offers exhilarating performance and luxurious comfort, but how does it fare in everyday situations? Let's delve into some practical considerations, starting with fuel efficiency.
Fuel Efficiency: A Trade-off for Performance: The GLE 53 prioritizes power over ultimate fuel economy. With a combined rating of around 19 mpg, it falls short of some competitors. This is a natural consequence of the potent engine and electric motor combination. While the mild-hybrid system helps to improve efficiency to some extent, those who prioritize maximum gas mileage might want to consider alternative options. However, it's important to consider your driving habits. If you primarily embark on highway journeys, the GLE 53 can achieve figures closer to 21 mpg. Conversely, frequent city driving will likely bring the average down closer to 17 mpg.
Beyond the Numbers: Everyday Refinement: Fuel efficiency aside, the GLE 53 offers a refined driving experience. The engine delivers smooth power delivery, and the air suspension provides a comfortable ride that absorbs bumps and imperfections with ease. Additionally, the GLE 53 boasts a spacious interior, making it suitable for everyday use. The cargo area is ample enough for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment, ensuring practicality for errands and weekend adventures.
Taming the AMG: Managing Ownership Costs: The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 is a premium SUV, and ownership costs reflect that. Insurance premiums will likely be higher compared to standard SUVs due to the vehicle's performance and luxury features. Maintenance costs might also be slightly higher, as servicing a high-performance model typically involves specialized parts and expertise. It's wise to factor in these ongoing expenses when considering the GLE 53 to ensure it aligns with your budget.
Maintanace Cost
The Price of Performance: Owning a Mercedes-AMG GLE 53
The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 delivers exhilarating performance and luxurious comfort, but this naturally comes with a price tag. Ownership costs extend beyond the initial purchase price, and maintenance is a key factor to consider. While the GLE 53 offers a compelling package, its high-performance nature translates to potentially higher maintenance costs compared to a standard SUV.
Let's explore why maintenance might be on the higher side. Firstly, the GLE 53 boasts a complex engine. It combines a powerful gasoline engine with an electric motor, requiring specialized expertise and potentially more expensive parts during servicing. Regular maintenance intervals might be similar to a standard SUV, but the complexity of the AMG powertrain could lead to higher costs per service.
Secondly, performance-oriented components like high-performance brakes and tires are designed for exceptional handling and responsiveness. These parts typically wear out faster than those on a standard SUV driven conservatively. Replacing these components with high-quality parts specifically designed for the AMG GLE 53 will likely be more expensive than their counterparts on a regular SUV.
While the potential for higher maintenance costs exists, it's important to consider your driving habits. If you plan to drive the GLE 53 in a spirited manner, pushing its performance capabilities frequently, then maintenance costs will likely be on the higher end. Conversely, if you prioritize a more relaxed driving style, utilizing the powertrain moderately, you might experience more moderate maintenance expenses. Ultimately, researching service plans and factoring in potential costs associated with high-performance parts will help you make an informed decision about whether the GLE 53 aligns with your budget in the long run.
Interior
Step inside the cabin and prepare to be enveloped in a luxurious haven. High-quality materials surround you, from the supple leather seats that feel like butter against your skin to the elegant woodgrain accents that exude a sense of warmth and sophistication. Every detail whispers of craftsmanship, evident in the meticulous stitching and the smooth operation of every button and knob.
Technology at Your Fingertips: The Infotainment Symphony
The cabin isn't just about physical comfort; it's a haven for the technologically savvy as well. A high-tech infotainment system takes center stage, boasting a crystal-clear display and an intuitive interface that makes navigating its features a breeze. Whether you want to crank up the tunes on a premium sound system, access real-time navigation, or stay connected with the outside world, this system caters to your every need. It seamlessly integrates with your smartphone, allowing you to control everything from music selection to climate control with just a touch or voice command.
How Much Interior Space?
Ample Room for Everyone and Everything: The Spacious Interior of the GLE 53
The GLE 53 boasts an interior that prioritizes spaciousness and comfort for both passengers and cargo. Unlike some SUVs that force compromises in the back row, the GLE 53 offers ample legroom and headroom for five adults, even those on the taller side. Whether you're embarking on a long road trip with the whole family or shuttling friends around town, everyone can stretch out and enjoy the ride in complete comfort. The spaciousness extends beyond the passenger compartment. The GLE 53 offers a decent amount of cargo room behind the rear seats, perfect for groceries, luggage, or even sporting equipment. With the rear seats folded flat, the cargo capacity expands significantly, providing ample space for larger items or bulkier gear. This makes the GLE 53 a versatile choice for a variety of lifestyles, from active families to adventurous
individuals.
Flexible Cargo Solutions: Tailored to Your Needs
The well-designed cargo area of the GLE 53 isn't just spacious, it's also functional. The available split-folding rear seats allow you to customize the space to fit your specific needs. Need to carry a long surfboard while still seating two passengers? Simply fold down one side of the rear seat. Traveling with a group and a mountain of luggage? Fold both seats down to unlock the maximum cargo capacity. The cargo floor is also adjustable, allowing you to create a flat load surface when the seats are folded or a deeper well to securely contain smaller items. Additionally, a power liftgate makes loading and unloading groceries or gear a breeze, especially when your hands are full.
Comfort on the Go: A Haven for Passengers of All Sizes
The spacious interior of the GLE 53 isn't just about offering ample room; it's designed for maximum passenger comfort as well. The thoughtfully sculpted seats in both the front and rear rows provide excellent support, even on long journeys. Ample legroom and headroom ensure that passengers of all sizes can relax and enjoy the ride. The available panoramic sunroof further enhances the feeling of spaciousness and bathes the interior in natural light, creating a more inviting atmosphere. Whether you're the driver tackling a long commute or a passenger enjoying a scenic road trip, the GLE 53's spacious and comfortable interior ensures everyone arrives at their destination feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Practicality
Performance with Practicality: The Unexpected Advantage of the GLE 53
The GLE 53 defies expectations by seamlessly blending heart-pounding performance with surprising practicality. It might be a powerful SUV that thrills on the open road, but it doesn't compromise on everyday usability. Let's delve into the features that make the GLE 53 such a practical choice.
Firstly, the GLE 53 delivers a remarkably comfortable ride. The suspension is expertly tuned to strike a perfect balance between sporty handling and a smooth, luxurious ride quality. You can carve corners with confidence while still enjoying a composed and comfortable journey, even on less-than-perfect road surfaces. This makes the GLE 53 ideal for tackling daily commutes, weekend getaways, or long road trips – your passengers will thank you for prioritizing their comfort without sacrificing performance.
Secondly, as we explored earlier, the GLE 53 offers ample space for both passengers and cargo. The spacious interior comfortably seats five adults, with ample legroom and headroom even for those on the taller side. The versatile cargo area provides enough room for everyday errands, weekend adventures, or even larger hauling tasks. With the rear seats folded flat, the cargo capacity expands significantly, making the GLE 53 a perfect choice for active families or those who need to transport bulky gear occasionally.
Finally, the GLE 53 boasts a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features that enhance both safety and practicality. These features can include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automated emergency braking. This suite of technologies takes the stress out of driving, allowing you to focus on the road ahead and navigate traffic with confidence. These features are not just safety enhancements; they make everyday driving tasks like parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier and more convenient. In conclusion, the GLE 53 proves that a performance SUV can be surprisingly practical for everyday life.
Boot Space
Generous Cargo Capacity: The GLE 53 Can Handle Your Hauling Needs
The GLE 53 offers an impressive amount of cargo space, making it a versatile choice for a variety of lifestyles. With the rear seats upright, the cargo area measures a generous 29.6 cubic feet (840 liters). This provides ample space for groceries, luggage, or all the essentials you need for a weekend getaway. Imagine comfortably packing in suitcases, duffel bags, and even a cooler filled with drinks and snacks for a fun-filled trip with friends or family.
Unleash the Full Potential: Expanding to Mammoth Proportions
But the true capacity of the GLE 53 comes into play when you fold down the rear seats. This simple action unlocks a massive 80.3 cubic feet (2,280 liters) of cargo space. That's a significant increase that allows you to transport much larger items with ease. Think bulky furniture, sports equipment like kayaks or bicycles, or even gardening supplies – the GLE 53 can handle it all. This flexibility makes it a perfect companion for active individuals or families who lead adventurous lives and require the occasional extra hauling space.
Designed for Convenience: Features that Make Loading and Unloading a Breeze
The impressive cargo capacity of the GLE 53 is further enhanced by a number of thoughtful design features. The available split-folding rear seats allow you to customize the space to your specific needs. Need to transport a long object while still seating a passenger? Simply fold down one side of the rear seat. Additionally, a thoughtfully placed cargo lip protector helps prevent scratches and scuffs when loading and unloading heavy or bulky items. Moreover, some variants may even offer a power liftgate, which can be a lifesaver when your hands are full of groceries or gear. This feature allows you to effortlessly open and close the cargo door with just a press of a button, maximizing convenience. In conclusion, the GLE 53's generous cargo space, along with its smart design features, makes it a practical and functional choice for those who value versatility and convenience.
Reliabilty
Navigating Reliability: The GLE 53's Potential and Considerations
Mercedes-Benz has a history of producing reliable vehicles. However, the GLE 53's performance-oriented powertrain adds a layer of complexity that can raise some questions for potential buyers. Let's delve into the factors to consider when evaluating the GLE 53's reliability.
The GLE itself has a decent reliability record, according to industry reports. However, the AMG GLE 53 incorporates a mild-hybrid system with an electric motor that assists the turbocharged gas engine. While this technology enhances performance, it also introduces additional components that could require maintenance or repair down the road. It's important to remember that while these components are generally very reliable, the added complexity can translate to potentially higher maintenance costs compared to a simpler powertrain.
Here's how to approach this factor: If prioritizing long-term ownership and potentially lower maintenance costs is paramount, a non-AMG GLE model might be a better choice. However, if the thrill of the AMG performance and the cutting-edge technology outweigh those considerations, then the GLE 53 can still be a fantastic option. Just be prepared to factor in the potential for slightly higher maintenance costs as part of owning this exceptional SUV.
Safety
Prioritizing Safety: The GLE 53's Comprehensive Shield
Safety remains a top priority for Mercedes-Benz, and the GLE 53 is no exception. It boasts a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features designed to keep you and your passengers protected on the road. These features can include:
Adaptive cruise control: This system maintains a set distance from the car in front of you, automatically adjusting your speed to maintain a safe following distance.
Lane departure warning: This system alerts you if you unintentionally stray from your lane without activating your turn signal.
Blind-spot monitoring: This system warns you of vehicles approaching from your blind spot when you're trying to change lanes.
Automated emergency braking: This system can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision.
These are just a few examples, and the specific features may vary depending on the model and options you choose. However, Mercedes equips the GLE 53 with a robust safety technology package that offers peace of mind on every drive.
