The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe (C292) AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC, produced from May 2015 to 2019, represents the high-performance variant of the first-generation GLE Coupe. Positioned as the flagship model within the C292 range, it combined the styling of a coupe with the practicality of a sport utility vehicle, offering a luxurious and powerful driving experience. This model aimed to compete with performance SUVs from Porsche and BMW, offering a blend of speed, handling, and prestige. It was a key offering in the expanding market for performance-oriented luxury SUVs, particularly in North America and Europe.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLE |
| Generation | GLE Coupe (C292) |
| Type | AMG GLE 63 S (585 Hp) 4MATIC 7G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | May, 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe, SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.8 l/100 km (14.9 US mpg, 17.9 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 278 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4 kg/Hp, 248.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 323.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 585 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 760 Nm @ 1750-5250 rpm (560.55 lb.-ft. @ 1750-5250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 157.982 |
| Engine displacement | 5461 cm3 (333.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2350 kg (5180.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3050 kg (6724.1 lbs.) |
| Max load | 700 kg (1543.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 650 l (22.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1720 l (60.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 93 l (24.57 US gal | 20.46 UK gal) |
| Length | 4900 mm (192.91 in.) |
| Width | 2003 mm (78.86 in.) |
| Height | 1731 mm (68.15 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2915 mm (114.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1658 mm (65.28 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission G-TRONIC |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 285/40 ZR22; 325/40 ZR22 |
| Wheel rims size | 22 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the AMG GLE 63 S lies the M157.982 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine, a hallmark of AMG performance for many years, utilizes direct fuel injection and a sophisticated engine management system to deliver substantial power and torque. The twin turbochargers, positioned within the V of the engine, minimize turbo lag and provide a broad, flat torque curve. The engine produces 585 horsepower at 5500 rpm and a massive 760 Nm (560 lb-ft) of torque available from 1750 to 5250 rpm. This power is channeled through a 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, specifically tuned by AMG for quicker shifts and more responsive performance. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction and stability, distributing power between the front and rear axles as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The AMG GLE 63 S delivers a driving experience that is both exhilarating and surprisingly refined for a vehicle of its size. The potent V8 engine provides effortless acceleration, with the 0-60 mph sprint achievable in around 4 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC transmission shifts smoothly and quickly, contributing to the car’s overall responsiveness. While not as agile as smaller, lighter sports cars, the GLE 63 S handles remarkably well for an SUV, thanks to its sophisticated suspension system and precise steering. The air suspension, standard on this model, offers adjustable ride height and damping settings, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s handling to their preferences. The exhaust note is characteristically AMG – aggressive and throaty, adding to the overall sense of performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The AMG GLE 63 S came standard with a comprehensive array of luxury and performance features. Interior appointments included premium leather upholstery, AMG sport seats with enhanced bolstering, and carbon fiber trim. Standard technology included a large infotainment screen with navigation, a premium sound system, and a suite of driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather options, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The exterior styling was further enhanced by AMG-specific body styling, including a unique front grille, side skirts, and rear diffuser.
Chassis & Braking
The GLE 63 S features a robust chassis designed to handle the engine’s substantial power. The suspension utilizes a fully independent setup with double wishbones at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. Air suspension is standard, providing adjustable ride height and damping. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, with large calipers providing ample stopping power. AMG-tuned brakes were often specified as an option, offering even greater performance. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system is rear-biased, providing a more engaging driving experience while maintaining stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The AMG GLE 63 S was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and surprisingly agile handling. However, its high price tag and relatively poor fuel economy were often cited as drawbacks. Compared to its rivals, such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and the BMW X6 M, the GLE 63 S offered a similar level of performance and luxury, but with a more aggressive and imposing styling. The 1.8L variants of the standard GLE offered significantly lower performance and were targeted at a different demographic, prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability over outright speed. The GLE 63 S was aimed at buyers who wanted a high-performance SUV that could deliver both on the road and on the track.
Legacy
The C292 AMG GLE 63 S has established itself as a desirable performance SUV in the used car market. While the M157 engine is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding its turbochargers and cooling system, it is generally considered a reliable powertrain when properly cared for. The vehicle’s luxurious interior and advanced technology continue to appeal to buyers seeking a high-performance SUV with a touch of exclusivity. As a first-generation model, it represents a significant step forward in the evolution of the performance SUV segment, paving the way for future generations of AMG GLE models.
