After being spotted testing on numerous occasions, the latest fat-cat accessory is out as Mercedes-Benz has revealed the 2015 GLE Coupe. Set to rival the BMW X6, the design of the GLE is quite close to the concept coupe revealed earlier this year. Although purists might shy away, someone who accepts the absurdity of changing times might appreciate the proper coupe like sloping roofline which stretches back to a steeply raked rear window and a relatively high tailgate, on what appears to be a CLA on stilts. What the GLE combines is coupe like flowing lines with high ground clearance and 20-inch wheels which buyers can upgrade to size 22, as an option.
The GLE line-up will comprise of three models initially, all of them will be kitted with a 9-speed automatic gearbox, transferring power to all four wheels. The range topper will be a GLE 450 AMG, the first car in the new semi-sporty AMG Sport model line. The three models are as follows:
GLE 350d – 3.0-litre V6 diesel, 255bhp, 619Nm
GLE 400 – 3.0-litre V6 biturbo petrol, 329bhp, 479Nm
GLE 450 AMG – 3.0-litre V6 biturbo petrol, 362bhp, 520Nm
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLE450 AMG Coupe will come with a dynamic select variable control system which provides five different driving modes for the nine-speed transmission. They are Individual, Comfort, Slippery, Sport and Sport+. Individual allows custom settings while comfort will enhance all the parameters to ensure smooth cruising. Slippery as the name suggests is when the surface provides less friction and Sport, Sport+ will come in handy is when you feel confused about your decision to buy an SUV.
Then GLE350d and GLE400 get a torque split of 50:50 between the front and rear axles. The GLE450 AMG Coupe on the other hand utilises a 40:60 torque split and includes the latest Airmatic air suspension system with the Active Curve System and active roll stabilisation coming into effect when the Sport and Sport+ modes are selected. The Airmatic system is available as an option on other GLE Coupe versions.
