The luxury SUV coupe market is fiercely contested, with the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe and BMW X6 consistently battling for supremacy. Both vehicles offer striking designs and premium features, but when it comes to the driving experience and overall package, subtle yet significant differences emerge. The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, built upon Mercedes’ dedicated MHA platform for SUVs, aims to deliver a superior blend of comfort and technology. This platform boasts a 33 percent increase in rigidity compared to previous architectures while maintaining a comparable weight through extensive use of aluminum. Despite its robust 2,295kg mass, the engineering focus is clear: refined luxury.
While neither the GLE Coupe nor the BMW X6 are designed as outright sports cars, the GLE Coupe presents a more relaxed demeanor on the road. Its steering response feels less immediate than the X6, and its considerable weight is more apparent in sharp corners. This is partly attributable to the standard adaptive air suspension, which, in its default Comfort mode, prioritizes ride quality. This softer setup excels at absorbing road imperfections, providing a cosseting and refined ride, even on substantial 22-inch wheels. On uneven roads, some body roll is noticeable due to the elevated driving position, but the trade-off is a remarkably smooth and comfortable experience.
Alt text: Rear view comparison of Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe and BMW X6, highlighting the distinctive coupe rooflines and taillight designs of these luxury SUV rivals.
The handling of the GLE Coupe is competent and secure, offering ample grip and stability. Despite its height and body roll, it inspires confidence. However, it doesn’t deliver the same level of driver engagement or excitement as some competitors, even within the SUV category. The “coupe” designation here leans more towards stylistic flair and luxurious comfort than outright sporty performance.
Where the GLE Coupe truly shines is in its refinement. The 3.0-liter turbocharged in-line six-cylinder engine in the 400 d variant is a masterpiece of smooth power delivery. Producing 325bhp and a substantial 700Nm of torque, it propels the GLE Coupe from 0-62mph in a brisk 5.7 seconds, more than adequate for a vehicle of this class. Beyond outright speed, the engine offers impressive mid-range grunt and effortless flexibility. The nine-speed automatic gearbox complements this engine perfectly. Gear changes are virtually seamless, and while occasionally it might hold onto a gear for a fraction longer than anticipated, its unobtrusive nature contributes to the overall relaxed driving experience. The abundance of torque means the gearbox rarely needs to aggressively downshift, further enhancing the serene progress.
In terms of standard equipment, the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe 400 d in AMG Line Premium Plus trim significantly outshines the BMW X6 M Sport. While both offer a comprehensive suite of expected features, the GLE Coupe adds a Burmester sound system, cooled front seats (in addition to standard heating), keyless operation, a head-up display, acoustic glazing, and the comprehensive Driving Assistance Package as standard. This package includes semi-autonomous adaptive cruise control, blind-spot and lane-keep assist, cross-traffic alert with braking, and evasive steering assist, further solidifying the GLE Coupe’s position as a technology and luxury leader in its segment.
