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Sunday Drive: 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 SUV — A powerful and luxurious ride

By Craig and Deanne Conover - | Jun 3, 2023
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After a long drive in the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63, we stopped in downtown Springville, our hometown, to take a photo with Deanne and the awesome blossoms on the trees welcoming springtime.
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The all-new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ SUV.
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Inside the all-new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ SUV.
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Inside the all-new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ SUV.
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The all-new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ SUV.
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Inside the all-new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ SUV.
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Inside the all-new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ SUV.

Whenever the words “Mercedes” and “AMG” come together in the automotive world, we know we’re in for a week filled with comfort and performance. And once again, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 SUV did not disappoint! From its impressive powertrain to its advanced features, this SUV proved to be a thrilling and luxurious ride.

Under the hood of the GLE 63 SUV lies a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine that produces a robust 429 horsepower and 384 foot-pounds of torque. Paired with a seamless nine-speed transmission, this powertrain allows the GLE to effortlessly glide through the gears, whether in automatic mode or using the paddle shifters for a more engaging driving experience.

Mercedes has also incorporated its own 48-volt mild hybrid system into the GLE, which acts as a hybrid electric motor between the transmission and engine. This system provides an instant boost of 21 horsepower and 184 foot-pounds of torque, effectively eliminating any turbo lag. The result? A mid-sized SUV that can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 5.2 seconds.

During our test drive, we had the opportunity to put the GLE through its paces on a scenic route around the south end of Utah Lake. From tight twisty mountain roads to extended freeway stretches with 80 mph limits, the GLE handled it all with grace and agility. Its adrenaline-boosting acceleration tempted us at every turn, leaving us eager to experience its power again and again.

One standout moment was hitting the Interstate 15 onramp in Mona, where we unleashed the GLE’s full potential. With the new 48-volt system and its advanced technology, the AMG quickly propelled itself to 85 mph, showcasing impressive engineering and performance.

The GLE 63 SUV comes equipped with an advanced air suspension system that offers various settings. It can be lowered by 0.6 inches for improved aerodynamics and fuel efficiency at higher speeds, while also being raised by up to 2.2 inches to tackle challenging terrains. This adaptive suspension system ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, no matter the road conditions.

On the exterior, the GLE boasts classic Mercedes styling, from the prominent star in a double ring on the front grille to the flared wheel arches that house the stunning 21-inch wheels. Our test vehicle, in true AMG fashion, featured additional exterior accents that further emphasized its powerful presence and exceptional aesthetics.

Step inside the GLE and you’ll find a meticulously crafted interior designed to provide both driver and passengers with unparalleled comfort. One of our favorite features in recent years has been the “Hey, Mercedes” voice-activated personal assistant. Every time we enter a new Mercedes, we can’t resist requesting the massaging seats, and in the AMG GLE, our wish was granted. The massage function was truly awe-inspiring and provided a welcome respite during long drives.

The leather-clad seats, adorned with beautiful red stitching that matched the red seat belts, and the performance-enhanced flat-bottom steering wheel added to the overall sporty and luxurious feel of the AMG GLE. Mercedes’ digital advancements were also on full display, with a 12.3-inch driver display and a 12.3-inch infotainment touch screen. The MBUX system, controlled through the infotainment center, could even be operated using our voice assistant, showcasing the increasing integration of voice commands in modern vehicles.

Safety is always a priority, and the GLE came equipped with the optional Driver Assistance Package ($1,950), providing a host of safety features we’ve come to expect from Mercedes. These included Blind Spot Monitor, Adaptive Cruise Control with stop and start functionality, Rear Cross Path Detection and Lane Keep Assist. One standout feature was the Active Lane Changing assist, where the GLE can actually assist in changing lanes on the freeway — a truly helpful addition that showcases Mercedes’ commitment to cutting-edge technology.

Owning a Mercedes is an experience in itself, and driving the AMG GLE 63 SUV was no exception. From start to finish, this SUV delighted us with its power, comfort and luxurious features. With a base price of $73,550 and a total price as tested of $82,750 (including the destination charge), the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 SUV offers a premium driving experience that is truly worth every penny.

Base price: $73,550

Destination charge: $1,050

Price as driven: $82,750

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