Competes with: BMW X6 M, as well as traditionally styled performance SUVs like the BMW X5 M, Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, Land Rover Range Rover Sport SVR, and even Mercedes’ own AMG GLE63 S in non-coupe form
Powertrain
603-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8; nine-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission; full-time all-wheel drive
Exterior
The 2021 GLE63 S coupe will look very similar to the SUV from the front, with an AMG-specific grille design, new front bumper design and a power dome on the hood. The back is where things change — drastically. While the coupe wears the same new rear bumper design as the SUV, it trades the practicality of the squared-off rear for an aggressively sloped roofline that leads down to a sort of ducktail spoiler.
Interior
Interior upgrades are also similar to the SUV, including bolstered seats covered in AMG-exclusive Nappa leather with “AMG” badges on the backrests of the front seats. A sport steering wheel with aluminum shift paddles also communicates the performance intent of the GLE63 S. Brushed stainless-steel pedals with rubber studs for grip purposes are also part of the interior changes.
Under the Hood
Hiding under that power dome is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 with a mild-hybrid system Mercedes calls EQ Boost. The V-8 produces 603 horsepower and 627 pounds-feet of torque, just like in the SUV, and also includes the same cylinder deactivation and stop-start system that takes advantage of the 48-volt EQ Boost integration to improve fuel economy. The coupe also features the same self-leveling air suspension and Active Ride Control system that adjusts the suspension to provide a more level ride — particularly useful in aggressive cornering. Adjustable settings for the suspension include Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus, while drive modes include Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus, Individual, Trail, Sand, and Race. Steering feedback is also adjustable, with settings like Basic and Advanced for more comfortable driving and Pro and Master for increased feedback.
Safety
Standard safety features include things like LED headlights, blind-spot assist, and active braking assist, and buyers can opt for an advanced Driver Assistance Package that adds more advanced, semi-autonomous features, as well.
Mercedes says the AMG GLE63 S coupe will go on sale in the fall, following the release of the SUV version sometime in mid-2020.
