Just over twenty years ago, Mercedes-Benz inadvertently created what would become one of the hottest segments in the motoring world - performance SUVs. Unaware of what would follow, the engineers at AMG shoved a 5.4-litre V8 AMG motor under the bonnet of the first generation ML-Class. With 270 kW under the bonnet, Mercedes created the first performance SUV. While it may have had wayward handling and woolly steering, it was impressive in a straight line.
Soon, BMW and Porsche - and even Jeep - had performance offerings. Now, as we steam toward 2022, nearly every premium manufacturer (and some mainstream brands) offer a hot variant of their conventional SUV models.
Continuing with the tradition, the boffins at AMG have furthered the performance SUV range. At the upper end sits the big G63 and GLS AMG derivatives. On the smaller side is the GLA45 (still to be launched) and GLC63. In the middle, are the GLE twins - the conventional SUV and the swoopy coupé.
Available in two individual AMG model variants (53 and 63), Mercedes sent us both body styles with the stonking 4.0-litre V8 engine. With 450 kW and 850 Nm on tap, both are decidedly potent. Both will sprint to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and hit an electronic limiter at 280 km/h. The power is sent to all four wheels via a 9-speed AMG gearbox, which is as ferocious and quick as it is smooth.
While the styling is the biggest difference between the two cars, the interiors are very much the same. The stylish facia is dominated by swathes of leather and the MBUX infotainment system - one of the best in the business. In the case of the SUV, the test unit was fitted with the optional carbon fibre trim finish, which really looks fantastic.
Another discernible difference - also because of the styling - is the rear interior room and luggage space. With luggage space ranging from 655-1790 litres, the coupé is impressively commodious. However, the more practical (and cheaper) SUV offers up 690 litres before you fold the seats down.
While they're certainly hefty behemoths, the AMG twins are quite capable at tackling a set of s-bends with aplomb. While not as dynamic as an X5 M Competition, they're certainly impressive, with the slightly lighter coupé getting the edge.
Verdict
Everywhere else, we find the SUV derivative to be the better buy. Not only is it cheaper, but offers plenty of space and more practicality. What's more, while styling is subjective, we prefer the more classic looks of the SUV. The sloping roofline of the coupé is perhaps a touch too far for us. At just under R3 million for both, they're undeniably pricey. If you really want an AMG SUV (and can afford it), the GLE platform is the sweet spot, in terms of performance, price and space. But from a practicality (and price point) we'd opt for the more sensible GLE400d. While nowhere near as potent as the AMG model, it's quick enough, beautifully refined and offers far more value.
Also worth a look: the Mercedes-AMG A Class and the Mercedes-AMG G Class.
FAQ
Q: What does the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 4Matic+ Coupé cost in South Africa?
The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 4Matic+ Coupé starts at around R2,850,000 in South Africa, making it one of the pricier performance SUVs on the market but justified by its stonking 450 kW power output and luxury appointments.
Q: Is the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 4Matic+ Coupé worth buying?
If you've got the budget and want a proper fast family hauler that looks the business, absolutely yes. The 3.8-second sprint to 100 kph and 850 Nm of torque make it properly quick, while the swoopy styling sets it apart from boring luxury SUVs.
Q: How fast is the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 4Matic+ Coupé?
The GLE 63 Coupé rockets from 0-100 kph in just 3.8 seconds thanks to its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 producing 450 kW and 850 Nm, with a top speed electronically limited to 280 kph.
Q: What's the difference between the GLE 63 SUV and Coupé?
The main differences are styling and practicality. The Coupé has a sloping roofline that looks sportier but offers slightly less luggage space (655-1790 litres vs 690 litres), while the SUV is more practical and cheaper to buy.
Q: How reliable is the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 4Matic+ Coupé?
Modern AMG models are generally reliable when properly maintained, but expect higher service costs due to the complex twin-turbo V8 engine and performance components. Budget around R25,000-R35,000 annually for proper maintenance at a Mercedes dealer.
Should You Buy It?
The best performance luxury SUV coupé under R3,000,000 in South Africa is definitely the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 4Matic+ Coupé. At around R2,850,000, it's not cheap, but you're getting supercar performance in a practical package that can haul the family and luggage while looking absolutely brilliant. The 450 kW twin-turbo V8 is a proper monster that sounds incredible, the interior is luxurious enough to shame some S-Class models, and the swoopy styling turns heads everywhere. If you can afford the hefty price tag and don't mind the fuel bills, this is a resounding yes. However, if practicality matters more than style, save some cash and go for the regular GLE 63 SUV instead.
