Miss Sandy, my neighbor with a sophisticated taste for Mercedes-Benz S-Class, wasn’t shy about expressing her opinion on the 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLE 43 Coupe. Her blunt assessment? “Ugly!” While subjective, her comment highlights the polarizing design of this performance SUV coupe. However, beneath the controversial styling lies a powerful and engaging machine from Mercedes-AMG, the performance division known for injecting adrenaline into the German automaker’s lineup of coupes, sedans, and convertibles.
The GLE 43 is offered in a traditional SUV body style, but the model I test drove was the “coupeover” version, a design Mercedes-Benz introduced to compete with BMW’s X6. The front fascia is undeniably handsome, but the sloping roofline towards the rear is where opinions diverge.
Advanced Driver Assistance: A Mercedes-Benz Hallmark
Mercedes-Benz consistently leads the way in driver-assistance technology, and the AMG GLE 43 is no exception. The Distronic adaptive cruise control is a standout feature, capable of bringing the vehicle to a complete stop and resuming in stop-and-go traffic – a true stress reliever during daily commutes. Paired with Steering Pilot, which actively keeps the GLE 43 centered in its lane, these systems significantly ease the burden of driving, especially in congested conditions. It’s important to remember, however, that these are assistance systems; the driver remains ultimately responsible. The GLE 43 promptly reminds you to keep your hands on the wheel if it detects otherwise.
An innovative feature in the AMG GLE 43 is the Active Blind Spot Assist. Beyond simply warning of vehicles in your blind spot, this system can intervene by applying braking force to prevent a lateral collision if a lane change is deemed unsafe. While I didn’t intentionally test this feature, its presence underscores Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive safety and autonomous driving technology.
COMAND Infotainment: Confusion in Command?
While Mercedes-Benz excels in driver aids, the COMAND infotainment system in the GLE 43 presents a less seamless experience. The system is controlled via a touchpad, which, in practice, often serves as a hand rest while using the rotary dial below. Navigation involves a combination of touchpad swiping and tapping, or dial pushes in four directions to select on-screen icons. This multi-input approach can feel convoluted. Adding to the complexity, the 8-inch color display, while visually appealing, isn’t a touchscreen. This omission makes interacting with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto somewhat clunky.
Furthermore, the system lacks flexibility in integrating native and smartphone functionalities. While the built-in navigation is superior to Apple Maps, using it concurrently with Apple CarPlay for podcasts or music isn’t possible. During my test, podcast listening via Apple CarPlay meant being confined to Apple Maps, a less desirable navigation solution. Although connecting a phone via Bluetooth Media function bypasses CarPlay, it defeats the purpose of smartphone integration. Competitors like the Audi Q5 allow simultaneous use of native navigation and Apple CarPlay, a feature noticeably absent in the GLE 43.
Operating the COMAND system often involves navigating through layers of menus and submenus, making even simple tasks cumbersome. Presetting a radio station, for instance, requires seven steps. Accessing presets also involves multiple swipes and clicks. The overall user experience feels less intuitive than expected in a vehicle of this caliber.
Driving Dynamics: Twin-Turbocharged Thrills
Fortunately, the driving experience of the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE 43 AMG Coupe is a significant redemption. Under the hood lies a potent 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, generating 362 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. This power is delivered to all four wheels via a responsive nine-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel economy is EPA-rated at 17 mpg city, 23 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined. However, my real-world driving, likely influenced by the GLE 43’s performance capabilities, yielded a combined 15.8 mpg.
Despite its coupe-like profile, the AMG GLE 43 boasts a remarkable towing capacity of 7,200 pounds. This figure surpasses even some gasoline-powered pickup trucks and significantly exceeds sportier crossovers like the Porsche Macan GTS. Imagine towing two Smart cars and still having capacity for a motorcycle!
However, the sloping roofline, while contributing to the “coupe” aesthetic, compromises practicality. Rear headroom is reduced, rear visibility is limited, and cargo space is less than the standard GLE SUV. The GLE 43 Coupe offers 23 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 60.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. This is less than the Jaguar F-Pace but comparable to the BMW X6.
The AMG GLE 43 offers five distinct driving modes: Individual, Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus. Each mode adjusts transmission mapping, steering feel, throttle response, and suspension settings. Comfort mode is ideal for relaxed driving, while Sport and Sport Plus modes transform the GLE 43 into a more aggressive performer.
The transmission mapping in Sport mode is particularly impressive, mimicking enthusiast driving by downshifting proactively before corners, enabling smooth throttle modulation through turns. Power delivery is immediate upon corner exit. Sport Plus mode further sharpens shifts and acceleration, adding exhilarating exhaust backfires. For manual control, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters are available, but the transmission’s intelligent automatic mode often negates their need.
The optional high-performance tires on 22-inch wheels provide abundant grip, enhancing cornering prowess and contributing to the GLE 43’s sporty stance.
Risky Design, Rewarding Performance
At around 5,000 pounds, the GLE 43 isn’t the quickest in its class, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds. This is slightly slower than the Jaguar F-Pace S and Porsche Macan. Weight reduction would undoubtedly enhance performance.
To optimize handling, especially in corners, the optional Active Curve System is highly recommended. While adding to the price, the variable stabilizer bars effectively minimize body roll, boosting confidence on winding roads.
For personalizing a 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLE 43, the Premium 3 package is a worthwhile addition, offering advanced driver aids and comfort features like heated and cooled cupholders. Massaging seats, though a further expense, enhance driving comfort. The Active Curve System is also a performance-enhancing option worth considering.
The 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLE 43 Coupe starts at $69,650. The more traditional SUV version starts slightly lower at $67,150. My test vehicle, loaded with options including a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system and even an air ionization system, reached a total price of $90,360. Ultimately, the value proposition depends on individual priorities. The GLE 43 AMG delivers a thrilling driving experience and advanced technology, but the COMAND system is a point of frustration.
As for Miss Sandy’s aesthetic judgment? That remains a matter of personal taste.
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