The Mercedes GLE-Class, formerly the M-Class, has always been a hit among Benz buyers because it combines SUV practicality with the usual premium touch of a proper Merc. And, sometimes, the performance factor also comes in the mix, as long as there’s an Affalterbach-based influence.
Currently, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE has a starting MSRP of at least $54,750 and for the money there’s just a 2.0-liter inline-four turbo engine under the hood, churning out 255 horsepower. It’s hardly performance material, as the all-rounder makes do with a 60-mph (96 kph) sprint time in seven seconds.
If anyone wants the mighty AMG letters attached to the GLE badge, then Mercedes will gladly sell to its fans the inline-six GLE 53 4Matic+ for $72,350. Upgrading to a V8 will result in an even higher bill of no less than $113,950 for the GLE 63 S.
But, in case one isn’t afraid to start an adventure with something that’s a bit old (but not yet obsolete), there’s also the higher-displacement option of this 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG equipped with the mighty 6.2-liter M156 V8.
Yes, one has to drop the expectations to the W164, second-generation Alabama-born ML 63, and cope with the fact it has been on quite a few adventures judging by the 135,000 miles (over 217,000 km) on the odometer.
In turn, there’s a chance to own a roaring, naturally aspirated V8 with a monstrous 503 horsepower and 465 lb-ft (630 Nm) of torque. Also, it might be a great way to enter AMG territory if one desires a practical SUV on the (ultra) cheap.
That’s because this no reserve auction (seller answers to the dariov call name) on Doug DeMuro’s cars & bids website has a current highest bid of just $10,150. If you’re interested in securing this hulking SUV at a fraction of the cost (less than 10%, if our math is correct) of a brand-new AMG GLE 63 S, then you’d better hurry because less than seven hours remain on the auction clock at the time of writing.
Aurel has aimed high all his life (literally, at 16 he was flying gliders all by himself) so in 2006 he switched careers and got hired as a writer at his favorite magazine. Since then, his work has been published both by print and online outlets, most recently right here, on autoevolution. Full profile
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