When Performance Isn't Everything | 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4matic+ Full Tour & Review

So you want an AMG but don't need 600+ horsepower on a daily basis. Enter this 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4matic+ SUV, the performance SUV for those who don't care about performance.
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We've discussed the latest Mercedes-AMG engine family using their 53 Series designation when we drove the 2019 Mercedes-AMG E 53 Coupé last year around the same time as we're in this GLE. For those who haven't kept up-to-date with the latest Mercedes nomenclature this GLE was originally the M-Class, or ML SUV and was renamed to fit into the new name scheme developed to simplify the lineup from Mercedes-Benz. As this vehicle roughly translates into the mid-size, or E-Class size category, it receives the GLE name.
Our GLE 53 AMG is the entry-level AMG using the 3.0L straight 6 turbocharged AMG tuned engine with a 48 Volt mild-hybrid system in the form of EQ Boost. The EQ Boost system helps to electrically spool up the turbo faster for better off-the-line torque and can supply 21 horsepower of power, though it doesn't change the 429 horsepower, 384 lb-ft of torque power rating for this engine. The EQ Boost also helps to make shifting from the 9G-Tronic AMG SpeedShift transmission smoother, and the auto stop/start system less intrusive. The only major change for 2021 is the removal of the e-Active Body Control feature found on the higher-end GLE vehicles, including the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4matic+.
We go over how this GLE 53 compares in terms of price and power to the BMW X5 xDrive50i and BMW X6 M50i we've driven, specifically how this doesn't line up in terms of performance with either one of them. We discuss some of the advantages of this AMG, and why someone might consider it over the BMWs. We jump on the inside to go over the design and features found on this well-equipped model, including the nappa leather, designo open-pore flamed ash wood, and AMG drive unit.
We take the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4matic+ on a comprehensive road test to talk about how this vehicle performs on the road, how it handles and drives, and the overall quietness compared to other mid-size luxury SUVs. We report our fuel economy testing along with a quick 0-100km test to see how Sport+ performs. We wrap up with our final thoughts on this SUV and the reasons you might be in the market for it over the competition.
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[@TheKeenMechanic]

Thubms up before I even watch it. Thanks Nile

[@PRNTestDrive]

Hope you enjoyed it!

[@drbismil7361]

My fav car channel

[@PRNTestDrive]

Thank you! I really appreciate that, keeps me motivated to get behind the camera every week with these cars!

[@drbismil7361]

@@PRNTestDrive I bought the X3M on the strength of your review and you putting it through its paces in the snow shows why it's the best pound for pound m car

[@yizhang2646]

First. Yeah!!! GLE 53 was the car I was cross shop with x5 m50i. In the end, that V8 TT sound won me over

[@PRNTestDrive]

I figure a lot of people ended up going that route also, unless they're die-hard M-B enthusiasts. This was a nice SUV, but didn't live up to the AMG badge the same way the BMW M Performance models live up to that M badge.

[@7povo7]

Apples and pears comparison. As if MB didn’t have GLE 63s

[@Sc0rpy]

what a car what a review .. the luxury level here is simply unmatched by other brands

[@PRNTestDrive]

Agreed! I really enjoyed my time with this one, definitely on my list if I win the lottery.

[@bend__]

Great review again of a stunning car. It's missing one important feature... Me inside of it and daily driving it 😂

[@PRNTestDrive]

You and me both!

[@bend__]

@@PRNTestDrive okay, i'm off to the airport right now 😜

[@officesuperhero9611]

I bought the GLE 2020 450 SUV 6 months ago. The 450 comes w a 6 cylinder and almost as much horsepower as yours. It’s such an incredibly comfortable drive. Super smooth. I got the airmatic system too and it works nicely. Probably most comfortable car I’ve ever driven. By the way, great review! Super informative. And as an owner of the GLE, I feel qualified to say you’re definitely on point!

[@PRNTestDrive]

Thanks for sharing, glad to hear you're enjoying yours! I love the design on this era of Mercedes SUV, and I really enjoyed this GLE.

[@gregs8685]

It’s actually a 70 hp difference, so I’m not sure that qualifies as almost as much. Nice SUV regardless.

[@fiercedevil6955]

It is pretty fun when you peel the plastic off the things....satisfying. And also, I think that a car this expensive should have that Burmester 3D sound system as standard.

[@PRNTestDrive]

Agreed!

[@jamesengelsman9369]

Mans got an epic beard going these days.

[@PRNTestDrive]

😂 It’s gotten to the point where I’m not even sure what to do with it. It’s out of control!

[@petersteele4347]

Not a fan of these Jihadi beards.

[@cougargold]

This has much more going for it than just the performance. The interior is beautiful, the infotainment system is way better than BMW X5, it has augmented reality HUD navigation, and gets 25mpg freeway with 429hp. For a daily driver, I’d rather have this over a big V8. It’s a great blend of power, comfort, performance. Plus with the performance exhaust package and it sounds great too and if you’re an audiophile, you can get the 21 speaker Burmester speaker upgrade (for $4,300). Get an AMG GLE63 or BMW X5M if you want hot rod and mpg/pollution doesn’t matter to you. Get a Tesla Model X if you’re main focus is 0-60 times. For a balanced everyday luxury performance, you can’t beat this AMG GLE53.

[@PRNTestDrive]

There's definitely a lot to love about this generation GLE-Class.

[@musiclives82]

The merc is a beauty inside...the X5 takes the win on the exterior! Power sides the BMW, but how crazy could you get all day long with those extra 100 horses! The 53 all the way, cuz you can certainly have the cake and eat it too!!

[@PRNTestDrive]

Can't go wrong with either one!

[@thunderjenkins920]

The MBs ride much better than the BMW's

[@PRNTestDrive]

Easily! I was seriously comfortable this week driving this around. I find the BMW M Sport suspension firms up the ride too much, its nice for performance but you definitely suffer on comfort.

[@elroz1675]

in testing by Motortrend - or was it Car and Driver? I forgot - GLE AMG 53 went to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. That is plenty for me! After a certain stage, comfort, handling, steering are more important than acceleration...which is plenty good anyhow at 4.7. I like that GLE53 has active anti-roll system - it seems that X5 40i and 50i do not offer that as an option anymore. You can get it on M50i though

[@PRNTestDrive]

That's a very good point, on the road an SUV like this is more than enough with that sort of performance.

[@miguelircontar]

I’m just afraid if I hit a bird it would get stuck in the grille lol

[@PRNTestDrive]

I worry about that with a lot of the cars I drive, I did unfortunately hit a bird a few years back when I had the Kia Stinger, lucky for me and the bird it didn't kill it, just bumped it. A grille like this though can easily make a mess if something gets sucked into it.

[@kevch]

have you ever considered SQ7 to GLE53? we are bit struggling at moment...cheers

[@PRNTestDrive]

Audi doesn't give me cars, so I don't have much of an opinion on the SQ7 unfortunately.

[@nevco8774]

The top trim in Volvo is a PHEV. So why Mercedes Benz do not combine the same way an ICE with electric motor and a battery to achive not only better performance but some environmental appeal in the top priced trim? Pricewise they could easily fit in and get a win-win situation.

[@PRNTestDrive]

My understanding is the new 73-Series AMG engine will be a proper hybrid over this and the 63's EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. I would be very interested in a 4.0L Twin Turbo V8 AMG engine paired with an electric motor (or two) powering just the front wheels.

[@nevco8774]

@@PRNTestDrive Ironically all Mercedes Benz SUVs are built in the USA including that GLE PHEV with a battery for 105 km pure EV range and a Diesel or gasoline ICE with it just for European market. Nothing like that for North American market is provided unfortunately.

[@edysinsimon8646]

Just how comfortable is the driver's seat? I'm just seeing a HUGE dealer optioned SUV here.

[@PRNTestDrive]

I was very comfortable during my week with this, I felt better in it than either of the E-Classes I've driven.

[@jimj2683]

This or the new range rover?

[@james2042]

unless you really feel the need for stupid amounts of power, the GLB invalidates almost everything above it in MB's lineup

[@PRNTestDrive]

The GLB was the next car I had booked before the shutdown earlier this year, I missed out on it. I'll have to see if they bring another one on the fleet for next year.

[@james2042]

@@PRNTestDrive It honestly has as much space as the GLE while being 3 row

[@targettheg9197]

@@james2042 just a lie why the hell should they offer the gle anyway then 😂😂😂

[@james2042]

@@targettheg9197 because it is rwd, has i6 and V8 options as well, is is on a more capable platform and can tow

[@targettheg9197]

@@james2042 all AMG GLE are 4WD.

[@tygaz3061]

i think with the AMG Dynamic plus package on the GLE it is MORE then adequate in performance.. Performance isnt just horsepower.. further in this price point.. this is its max power... you cant compare the X5 M thats 6 thousand more as just a base... what benz shoulda done was put the engine of GLE 580 into the 53 but that would bump up the prcie but at least it would make more sense... the 580 has more horses then the 53.. not sure why they did that.

[@PRNTestDrive]

The positioning of the entry-AMGs is still a little off, as you pointed out. Realistically this is more than enough for daily use, and that's coming from driving the GLE 350 a few months ago, and driving the E 450 convertible right now.

[@lefuedebout]

" I wouldn't go with the black interior "... how many times have I heard reviewers say just that yet manufacturers continue to churn out dark cave-like interiors? Unless I order a vehicle from new and specify a non-black interior almost everything available on the second hand or even new market has a black interior. Otherwise, good review!

[@PRNTestDrive]

I personally hate black interiors, can't stand it. My current C Class has a beige interior which I like quite a bit, and any time I find myself on the M-B configuration site I'm looking for brown interior options. Red is right up there with my dislike for black.

[@paulm6481]

German cup holders still over engineered and will break down. May be they should test an American truck for how they should do it 🤔

[@PRNTestDrive]

Best cup holders I've used are on the Ford F-Series and RAM trucks.

[@paulm6481]

I take a base X5 with straight six and less complex than this electrified hybrid thing. The rear of this GLE looks a little like a MDX. And it’s profile is strange. I also don’t like all these screens on new Benzes, I am strange though and like the old Benz hood ornament on these too 🤣

[@PRNTestDrive]

I'd definitely get a hood ornament if I bought one of these. I think the only new 2020/2021 you can buy with one in Canada is the S 560. There was an E-Class for 2018 that had one but it was impossible to order one without the sport grille here.

[@gregs8685]

Great review. It’s a nice SUV but kind of embarrassing to have an AMG badge on something so slow. If it were a regular “Mercedes GLE530” it would be more compelling but it is going up against the (admittedly more expensive) 500 hp twin turbo V8 powered M50i and SQ7. Make the GLS580 a lower priced AMG lite model (rename it GLE58 ) to compete with the M50i and SQ7 in the biturbo V8 class that exists under the real AMG, M and RS models. Hopefully you can test and compare this with the GLE580 and SQ7.

[@PRNTestDrive]

This should have been a GLE 450 given the overall power, they do over a GLE 580 in other markets, not in Canada though. With a vehicle like this we can see that Mercedes is more interested in pushing cars than keeping their sub-brands pure, as an AMG-badged vehicle like this will likely sell a little better than it would had they re-adjusted their trims to make this a 450.

[@targettheg9197]

@@PRNTestDrive you just talk crap. It has 435hp why the hell should it be badged as a 450.

[@jackwong93]

Merc any day

[@PRNTestDrive]

It's hard not to love what Mercedes does!

[@ashegheaty]

Mercedes benz canada web site says 0 to 100 km is in 5.3 seconds . 5.8 is not the real acceleration .

[@PRNTestDrive]

You're absolutely right, but I'm also not on a drag strip with time to run launches until I get the best number possible.

[@targettheg9197]

@@PRNTestDrive and its the drivers weight.

[@07Maroni]

this is GLE53 2020 is the same😂

[@PRNTestDrive]

Mercedes removed the e-ABC system for 2021, aside from that there are no changes from the 2020 GLE.

[@thibaultg9206]

What is the e-ABC system?

[@04tsxpower]

You shouldn’t be peeling shit off your only testing

[@peterotooleperez8328]

Bmw lots of mechanical problems.I ve had 3 BMW.Now One merc gle 350d coupe,and ordered gle 53 amg coupe.BMW always with de 0-60 take buyers

[@stephentran6874]

You sit a bit too close