Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Coupe 2021 Review

Coupe-style SUVs are big business for luxury automakers. So when Mercedes-Benz introduced a redesigned version of the midsize GLE last year, we knew it was just a matter of time before we saw a new version of the GLE Coupe. And after a year hiatus, the Mercedes GLE Coupe is back for 2021.

Compared to the old GLE Coupe, the new second-generation model has more features, more refinement and greater capabilities. The MBUX infotainment system is standard on all models and has garnered high praise for its ease of use and cutting-edge tech. There are also plenty of available advanced safety features and driver assistants for added security.

So how does the new GLE Coupe compare against the rivals such as the Audi SQ8, BMW X6 and Porsche Cayenne Coupe? And how big of a deal is its reduced practicality compared to the regular GLE? Check out the categories of our Expert Rating below to help you decide.

Which GLE-Class Coupe does MatoCar recommend?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe is a five-passenger luxury SUV that comes in two available models: AMG GLE 53 Coupe and AMG GLE 63 S Coupe. Feature highlights include:

AMG GLE 53 Coupe The standard GLE Coupe comes with the following features:

• Turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine (429 horsepower, 384 lb-ft of torque)
• Nine-speed automatic transmission
• All-wheel drive
• Adaptive LED headlights
• 21-inch wheels
• Adaptive air suspension (can adjust ride height and suspension firmness)
• Power liftgate
• Panoramic sunroof
• Power-adjustable, heated front seats
• Simulated leather upholstery
• Digital gauge cluster
• 12.3-inch central touchscreen with MBUX infotainment system
• Navigation system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
• Wireless charging station
• 13-speaker Burmester sound system

Every GLE also comes with:

• Blind-spot monitoring (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
• Forward collision mitigation (warns if a front collision is imminent and applies the brakes if the driver doesn't respond in time)
• Driver attention monitor (issues an alert if sensors determine you are becoming fatigued)
• Automated parking system (steers into a parking spot with little or no driver intervention)
• Mercedes' Pre-Safe system (quickly adjusts seat belts, headrests and windows if an imminent collision is detected)

AMG GLE 63 S Coupe This model adds on to the GLE 53 with:

• Turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine (603 hp, 627 lb-ft)
• 22-inch wheels
• Aluminum shift paddles
• Track Pace data-logging program
• Premium leather upholstery
• Electronic limited-slip rear differential
• AMG performance exhaust system

Key optional packages for the GLE Coupe include:

Driver Assistance Package Plus A collection of advanced driver aids such as:

• Adaptive cruise control (keeps a safe following distance from the car ahead even in traffic and can bring the GLE Coupe to a complete stop)
• Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
• Evasive steering assist (applies additional steering force if the driver begins an evasive maneuver to sufficiently avoid objects detected in the vehicle's path)
• Collision mitigation with cross-traffic function (warns the driver of vehicles entering an intersection and can apply braking force to prevent or reduce a collision)

AMG Dynamic Plus package Upgraded performance options, including:

• AMG Active Ride Control with adaptive dampers to assist cornering
• AMG high-performance brakes with red calipers
• AMG performance faux-suede steering wheel
• Steering wheel controls to adjust drive modes and suspension settings