Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe launched in Malaysia – GLE 400, GLE 450 AMG priced at RM631k, RM700k

Undoubtedly the most stylish model Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s new SUV line-up, here is the new Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, the third model to be launched today. Two variants of the five-seat coupe-styled SUV officially make their debuts in the country, with the GLE 400 priced at RM630,888 and the GLE 450 AMG at RM699,888.

Based on the regular GLE SUV, the GLE Coupe is Mercedes-Benz’s sole Sports Utility Coupe (SUC). The model faces competition from the BMW X6, which itself is available in Malaysia in two variants – the locally-assembled (CKD) X6 xDrive35i that’s priced at RM666,800, and the fully-imported (CBU), range-topping X6 M commands a whopping RM1,238,800.

Like the regular GLE, the Coupe is a fully imported model. More interestingly, though, is the arrival of the hotter GLE 450 AMG which marks a debut for an AMG Sport model in Malaysia. The top-shelf GLE Coupe variant isn’t a full-blown BMW X6 M-fighter, but sits one step below it, appropriately compared to an M Performance version of the X6.

With formalities out of the way, here’s a look at what lies at the heart of these style-oriented SUVs. The entry-level GLE 400 Coupe starts things off here with a 333 hp/480 Nm 3.0 litre (2,996 cc) biturbo V6 engine – one similarly offered in the W212 Mercedes-Benz E 400.

Even at its entry level, the vehicle is capable of performing the century spring in 5.9 seconds, and has a top speed of 247 km/h. Its fuel consumption is rated at 8.9 litres per 100 km. Both variants of the GLE Coupe are equipped with a new 9G-Tronic nine-speed torque converter automatic transmission and a 4Matic all-wheel drive system.

If it is full-blown power that you’re after, keep in mind that the hotter GLE 450 AMG Coupe isn’t quite the AMG GLE 63 you may be looking for. It features the same 3.0 litre turbo V6 engine as the GLE 400, but is massaged to produce 367 hp and 520 Nm of torque. The result of this is a zero to 100 km/h sprint clocked in 5.7 seconds and a top speed limited to 250 km/h.

The GLE 450 AMG Sport model also benefits from several chassis tweaks for better handling and an aggressive sports exhaust that the GLE 400 lacks. The variant also features AMG eSound – a feature that reproduces the exhaust note inside the cabin via the audio system.

Both GLE Coupe variants offer five drive modes to tackle various driving conditions under its Dynamic Select system, being Individual, Comfort, Slippery, Sport and Sport+. Notably, the 4Matic all-wheel drive system in the GLE 400 has an even 50:50 torque split, while the edgier GLE 450 AMG gets a little more rear torque bias with a 40:60 split.

The GLE Coupe duo are also equipped with an Airmatic suspension system as standard, inclusive of an Adaptive Damping System Plus system. The latter offers vehicle levelling control which can even automatically lower the vehicle’s ride height at high speeds to improve stability.

Additionally, the GLE 450 AMG gets an Active Curve system with roll stabilisation. This system functions to improve high-speed cornering stability, and is automatically activated in Sport or Sport+ modes.

Likewise, the active anti-roll bars on the front and rear axles instinctively work to improve ride comfort under regular driving instances. Where necessary, the electronically-controlled roll bars are capable of levelling out heavy, one-sided forces acting on the vehicle.

For style, there’s nearly no telling the two GLE Coupe variants apart. Both SUCs feature an AMG Line exterior kit, adding sporty front and rear aprons to the mix among other items. Apart from their designation badges, the only visible difference between the two cars are its wheel sizes.

The GLE 400 gets a set of 21-inch five, twin-spoke AMG alloy wheels, while the GLE 450 features the same kind in a larger 22-inch size. The exhaust tips are another subtle giveaway, with the GLE 400 featuring dual finishers while the GLE 450 gets quad tips.

The front-end of the car features a single-bar radiator grille with a centralised Three-Pointed Star, a contoured bonnet, full LED headlamps and large air intakes on the front bumper courtesy of the AMG styling kit. Horizontal LED tail lights are present and linked by a chrome strip that runs across the tailgate. The AMG-style rear bumper integrates the quad exhaust tips in the process.

If you’ve already been through our gallery of the regular GLE, you may find the Coupe’s layout to be very familiar, because apart from a few styling tweaks, they’re both identical. With the GLE 450 AMG Coupe the only variant in attendance, lets go through its cabin first.

Specified with an AMG Line interior, the present GLE 450 features AMG sports seats, an AMG flat-bottomed three-spoke steering wheel, nappa leather upholster offered in various colours and aluminium sport pedals. The dash is adorned with AMG carbon-fibre and piano-black lacquer surfaces.

The absent GLE 400 gets a more formal affair, offering several colour and material variations. The dash trim can be specified to have either a longitudinal-grain aluminium, brown open-pore ash wood, brown eucalyptus wood or dark-graphite poplar wood. Its leather upholstery also offers several colour options.

A COMAND Online with DVD Changer infotainment system is fitted to both variants of the GLE Coupe, standard-fitted with an eight-inch free-standing display screen and a six-DVD disc changer. The centre console is identical to the regular GLE and has a COMAND Controller equipped with the touchpad cum palm rest feature.

As seen before on the W212 E 400, the GLE Coupe gets a similar Rear-Seat Entertainment System – dual display screens with several connectivity options located on the back of the front passenger and driver’s headrests. A Harman Kardon Logic 7 Surround Sound system is reserved to the GLE 450 Coupe.

Maximum cargo space amounts to a total 1,650 litres of usable space when the 60/40-split rear seats are folded flat. Left in its original upright position, there is still a respectable 650 litres of space. Access to the rear cargo space has been made easier by an Easy-Pack tailgate system. The GLE 450 AMG Coupe, however, gets an additional Hands-Free Access feature – a swipe of your foot under the rear bumper automatically opens the tailgate.

For safety, the GLE 400 is most notably equipped with Collision Prevention Assist Plus and a Lane Tracking Package (Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist). The GLE 450 adds several more active safety features to that list, particularly being Distronic Plus with Pre-Safe Brake, Rear Impact Warning and Protection System, Steering Assist, Cross Traffic Assist, Pre-Safe Plus and Pre-Safe Brake.

To recap, the Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 4Matic Coupe is priced at RM630,888, while the more premium and sporty GLE 450 AMG 4Matic Coupe is listed at RM699,888. Needless to say, the OTR, without insurance prices for the CBU models include Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s four years unlimited mileage warranty.

Compare the full specifications of the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe variants on CarBase.my.

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