MERCEDES BENZ GLE-Class Coupe Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Mercedes-Benz refreshed its GLE Coupe lineup in early 2023 and added more functions and features to the well-known premium SUV while boosting the powertrains and improving the vehicle's look.

The fourth generation of the GLE (previously known as the ML-Class) was introduced in late 2018 at the Paris Motor Show. However, by 2023 it had already started to show its age not only on its exterior but also on its underpinnings. That's why the German automaker added a facelifted version that drastically improved the car.

From the outside, the coupe version featured an improved front fascia with standard high-performance LED and two points for the daytime running lights, and four points for versions fitted with the multibeam LED technology. Its grille also sported a new double slat. Finally, the GLE Coupe featured two horizontal blocks on the taillights at the back, divided between the rear quarter panels and the racked-forward tailgate.

Inside, the automaker added new bolstered high-mounted seats for the front occupants and a split-folding bench in the rear. In addition, Mercedes-Benz installed two wide screens on the dashboard covered by a single glass panel. The one placed in front of the driver showed the instrument panel, while the other one, placed atop the center stack, was for the MBAUX infotainment system. New features were also added to the car, including a system that could help the driver when backing up with a trailer attached.

Under the hood, the German automaker introduced a new generation of hybrid drivetrains that included an integrated starter generator (ISG), which helped the luxurious GLE Coupe attain better fuel efficiency. As expected, all versions were paired with a nine-speed automatic gearbox that sent the power to all corners.

The GLE Coupe is the answer given by Mercedes-Benz to the demand of a medium-size SUV-coupe. With almost 5 meters in length (16.2 ft) and a width of 2 meters (6.6 ft) the second-generation GLE Coupe looks impressive on the road. The model was launched in 2019 and comes with LED headlights fitted as standard and thus it gives the car a more aggressive look.

Inside, Mercedes-Benz installed all the features used for its luxury vehicles, including the new MBUX infotainment system, which can be used with the Amazon Music service. If the customer already has an account, that can be transferred to the vehicle. But if the customer wants, can play its music from the phone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Voice control is also available with the Linguatronic option.

For the luggage compartment, the GLE Coupe offers a large 655 liters (23.13 cu-ft) trunk, which can be extended up to 1790 liters (63.2 cu-ft). The loading height is lowered 60 mm (2.3 in) more than the previous generation and it can go even lower, with an additional 50 mm (2 in) if the Airmatic suspension is fitted.

Under the hood, in Europe, the model was launched with two inline-six turbodiesel engines with a displacement of 2.9-liters. These are offered as a 350d and 400d with 272 and 330 hp, respectively. The only transmission offered is the new 9G-Tronic gearbox and all-wheel-drive system.

Mercedes-Benz introduced a coupe version of its well-known GLE in 2015 at the North American International Auto Show and entered competition with the already famous BMW X6 SUV-Coupe.

When Mercedes-Benz introduced the four-door coupe CLS in 2004, it was the only automaker to offer such a vehicle. On the other hand, BMW answered with the X6, a sloped-back version of the X5 with a few different features. Then, the world financial crisis struck, and most automakers had to shrink their ambitions. Once those problems were gone, it was business as usual, with carmakers trying to steal some customers from their main competitors. In this case, Mercedes-Benz went after BMW buyers and tried to attract them with the luxurious GLE Coupe.

Unlike its main German rival, Mercedes-Benz used the GLE nameplate and just added the “Coupe” monicker behind it to differentiate the models. Still, the front fascia was slightly different, and the Coupe-shaped SUV featured organic-shaped, swept-back headlights at the front. A single horizontal double-slat trim adorned the grille, supporting the three-pointed star badge in the middle. On the lower bumper, the automaker added an A-shaped air intake flanked by large scoops. The hood sported a wide bulge in the middle.

From its profile, the massive SUV featured a raked windshield followed by a curved roof sloped towards the back of the car. Mercedes-Benz surrounded the windows line with a chromed trim, enhancing the car’s look. The flared wheel fenders created a muscular look for the vehicle, while at the back, a short deck created the impression of a three-box bodywork, although that was part of the wide-opening tailgate. Finally, at the back, Mercedes-Benz installed slim, wide taillights that emerged from the quarter panels onto the tailgate.

Inside, customers found a luxurious cabin fitted with high-bolstered front bucket seats. Between them, the automaker placed a wide center console that housed the controls for the driving modes and the rotary knob for the MBUX infotainment system. The driver fronted a three-spoke steering wheel and a binocular-styled instrument cluster similar to the one installed in the regular GLE. Atop the center stack, Mercedes-Benz placed the infotainment’s system screen. In the back, the automaker installed a split-folding (40/20/40) bench seat that could expand the trunk space if needed. To further enhance the driving experience of the luxurious SUV Coupe, Mercedes-Benz also offered a panoramic glass roof that could open above the front passengers while the rear panel was fixed.

Under the hood, the GLE received a wide choice of engines ranging between 258 PS (255 hp) and 367 PS (362 hp) paired to a standard nine-speed automatic transmission. Power went in all corners via an intelligent all-wheel drive system that could also lock the torque distribution between axles at a fixed 50-50 ratio.