Mercedes-Benz GLE: the differences between the GLE 350, 450, AMG 53 and AMG 63

At Mercedes-Benz, they don't just offer interesting vehicles; they make sure that each one is served up in a variety of packages to appeal to as many enthusiasts as possible. Of course, from the entry-level model to the top-of-the-line model in the family, there are many differences in the level of equipment and option packages that are included or offered.

This is the case when analyzing the GLE SUV lineup. What makes it easier is that, in addition to the details of each variant and what can be added individually as amenities, it's the number that tells us everything. In fact, it tells us everything there is to know about performance, because behind each different number lies a unique powertrain and, of course, a unique level of performance.

Let's see what each of the four versions of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offers.

350: It’s the only version equipped with a 4-cylinder engine. We're talking about a block with a displacement of 2 liters helped by a turbocharger. Power is rated at 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. You also get the best fuel economy ratings with this engine. If you want a powerful and economical GLE, this is it.

And it's available at a great price. Mercedes-Benz delivers on all of its benefits and offers it with an attractive base package. You can add option packages as you wish; no obligation, only respect for your choices.

450: With the 450, the equipment becomes more sophisticated as some options become standard features. The higher up the hierarchy you go, the more so.

Under the hood, we discover the talent of an inline 6-cylinder that also benefits from a turbo, but also from a light hybrid system (EQ Boost). Basically, the power is 362 horsepower and the torque is 369 lb-ft.

AMG: when the letters AMG appear on a Mercedes-Benz vehicle, you know you're in for a hell of a ride. Two models are available. The first is the 53, which uses the same 6-cylinder engine, but this time with the addition of a supercharger, which pushes its capacity to 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. While the first two versions take 7.1 and 5.7 seconds respectively to reach 100 km/h from a standing start, this version takes only 5.3 seconds.

And that's not all. The AMG 63 S variant pushes the madness to 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque thanks to a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that also benefits, like its two predecessors, from the mild hybrid system. The 0-100 km/h? A short 3.8 seconds of ecstasy. And with the AMG models, the nine-speed transmission is tuned to be faster; it's called Speedshift.

Truly, there's a GLE for everyone. Find out which one will thrill you in a test drive.