Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe: Targeting The BMW X6

The Internet has handed us yet another freebie: after a picture of their newest SUV leaked yesterday, Mercedes-Benz had no choice but to fully unveil the GLE Coupe.

Manufacturers rarely point out who their competitors are, but a quick glance at the new GLE Coupe is enough to reveal that it’s intended as a rival to BMW’s X6. As such, it follows the same recipe: based on the M-Class (now named the GLE), it features a sloped roof, less interior space and reduced headroom for the rear passengers.

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Different versions of the GLE Coupe will be available: the GLE 350d 4MATIC is equipped with a diesel engine generating 457 pound-feet of torque (no information yet on whether it will be available here), followed by the GLE 400 4MATIC and its 333-horsepower twin-turbo V6. The range-topping model is the GLE 450 AMG, which will also be the first vehicle in the AMG Sport lineup. It will be powered by a tweaked version of that same V6, bumping the power by 34 horses. It will also sport multiple interior updates that are usually found in the more expensive AMG models.

The GLE63 S Coupe 4MATIC offers a powerful AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine that develops a maximum power of 577 horsepower and 561 lb/ft of torque.

Regardless of the chosen version, a nine-speed automatic transmission comes standard. 20-inch wheels are also part of the deal, but better-equipped versions will feature 21 and even 22-inch wheels (hello winter tires!).