An Accomplished Engine and Sharp Cornering Performance

The Mercedes-BenzGLE Coupe"GLE Coupe" is a stylish SUV. Added to the lineup of this highly popular car, which was released in Japan in 2016, is the Mercedes-AMG "GLE 43 4MATIC Coupe," equipped with an AMG-developed V6 engine.

Its features include a coupe-like style with a gently sloping roofline that flows to the rear end, despite its relatively generous dimensions of 4,890mm in length and 1,720mm in height, with a short front and rear overhang. Another key aspect of this model is the powerful 3-liter V6 engine developed with AMG's involvement, paired with the full-time 4WD system, 4MATIC.

The GLE Coupe previously offered the Mercedes-AMG "GLE 63 4MATIC Coupe," powered by a 5.5-liter V8 engine boasting a maximum output of 430kW (585ps) and 785Nm of torque. In contrast, the GLE 43 4MATIC Coupe delivers 270kW (367ps) and 520Nm. The performance difference, evident from these figures, can be somewhat justified by the price difference: the former costs ¥17.8 million, while the latter is ¥12 million.

There's also a difference in the engines themselves. A selling point for Mercedes-AMG is "one man, one engine" (one person is responsible for assembling one engine). However, the 3-liter V6 unit is different; it's a line-produced engine that AMG was responsible for developing. Not only the numbers but also the origin differ slightly. Yet, it doesn't fall short in terms of enjoyment.

The 3-liter V6 developed by AMG is, in a word, an accomplished engine. Its torque delivery and revving feel are on par with AMG's 4-cylinder and V8 engines. This responsiveness means you can feel the power increasing steadily as the engine speed rises. To enhance efficiency through smooth rotation, this V6 unit features a "NANOSLIDE" coating on the cylinder walls, contributing to reduced friction.

To improve handling, lightweight materials such as aluminum are extensively used in the engine. The benefit is clearly felt in its sharp cornering performance. While the vehicle is by no means small, it possesses the sporty driving dynamics expected from a Mercedes-AMG. Its execution is truly impressive.

Performance on Winding Roads Exceeds Expectations

Some may view the Mercedes-AMG GLE 43 4MATIC Coupe as slightly underpowered. Compared to the GLE 63 4MATIC Coupe, with its 160kW power difference, this might be true. However, when driven without direct comparison, one would not be disappointed. The maximum torque of 520Nm, available from 2,000rpm to 4,200rpm, is more than sufficient. The 9-speed automatic transmission's programming is also precise, allowing for acceleration that, while not rocket-like, can feel akin to a jet plane when desired. It also offers the pleasure of revving freely, making it astonishing that this is considered a "versatile" engine for Mercedes-AMG.

Of course, the engine is not the sole highlight of the Mercedes-AMG GLE 43 4MATIC Coupe. Numerous features contribute to the enjoyable driving experience. One is the AIRMATIC suspension with continuously variable damping that adjusts to driving conditions. It provides a sense of substance while adeptly controlling body movements, such as during steering inputs. When selecting "Sport" or "Sport Plus" in the Dynamic Select drive mode, the vehicle height is slightly lowered, and in Sport Plus, the suspension noticeably stiffens. Yet, it maintains a sense of suppleness alongside the driving enjoyment.

While superior cornering is a traditional characteristic of Mercedes vehicles, even Mercedes faces limitations when pursuing extreme sportiness, leading to compromises during cornering. The Active Curve system in the GLE 43 4MATIC Coupe utilizes electronic assistance to stabilize and smooth out movements during cornering and lane changes. This system likely plays a role, as driving on winding roads while keeping the 3-liter V6 at higher revs is more enjoyable than expected.

The commanding view from the elevated seating position, offering a clear view far ahead, is another advantage of an SUV. Combined with the coupe-like, sleek styling mentioned earlier, it embodies almost all the elements of a modern SUV. Recently, the "GLC Coupe" was also released, featuring a similar styling concept but in a more compact body. For those who value a high level of quality and luxury, the GLE Coupe would be the preferred choice. The luggage compartment depth is also remarkable. Its practicality is more than sufficient, even for use as sports equipment.

Mercedes-AMG GLE 43 4MATIC Coupe | Mercedes-AMG GLE 43 4MATIC Coupe
Body Size | Length 4,890 x Width 2,015 x Height 1,720 mm
Wheelbase | 2,915 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,655 / 1,710 mm
Vehicle Weight | 2,310 kg
Engine | 2,996cc V6 DOHC Twin-Turbocharged
Bore x Stroke | 88.0 x 82.1 mm
Maximum Output | 270 kW (367 ps) / 5,500-6,000 rpm
Maximum Torque | 520 Nm (53.0 kgm) / 2,000-4,000 rpm
Transmission | 9-speed AT (9G-TRONIC)
Drivetrain | 4WD
Brakes | Ventilated Discs / Ventilated Discs
Tires Front/Rear | 285/40R22 / 325/35R22
Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 10.0 km/ℓ
Luggage Capacity | 650-1,720 Liters
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.5 Meters
Minimum Ground Clearance | 200 mm
Steering Position | Left
Price | ¥12,000,000