The 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe is the sporty counterpart to the more upright and traditional looking Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV. Note the nomenclature difference: Not only is the GLE Coupe, well, a "coupe," it also bears the AMG label in its name. This is because this year, the GLE Coupe is available only in two different AMG forms: the turbocharged-V6-powered Mercedes-AMG GLE43 Coupe, and the turbo-V8-powered Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S Coupe. The GLE Coupe goes against the likes of the BMW X6 by offering a sleeker body and better driving dynamics than the SUV upon which it's based. The 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe is the sporty counterpart to the standard GLE SUV. Don't expect much utility from this SUV though, as the GLE Coupe puts a priority on design.
Pros The Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe offers some of the characteristics of an SUV -- all-wheel drive, improved cargo capacity, and a taller ride height -- with the design and performance of a luxury sport sedan. If that sounds like you, take a look.
Cons The GLE Coupe isn't cheap, with a starting price higher than the GLE SUV. In addition, like the GLE, it's based on an older platform that's considerably heavier than newer Mercedes-Benz products. If you want something similar, but more modern, the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe is a little smaller, but far more nimble.
The GLE Coupe is Mercedes’ answer to the BMW X6 – it’s a sporty 4×4 SUV coupe. Underneath the GLE Coupe’s sexier curves you’ll find the same mechanical bits as on the more traditional looking GLE.The GLE Coupe is a more stylish version of the GLE that still has plenty of passenger space. The GLE Coupe is a good all-rounder for buyers who want a large 4×4 but with a more exciting shape than the usual box-like offerings. It has a big boot, a range of powerful engines and a lovely interior.
Pros Quick Classy interior Big boot
Cons Expensive to run High boot lip Only one diesel option
The 2017 BMW X6 M is about two things: style and performance. It has an abundance of both, but don't expect to get practicality, too. The 2017 BMW X6 M returns with an updated iDrive system that includes touchscreen functionality. The Executive option package also now includes a Wi-Fi hot spot and wireless charging for compatible cellphones.
Pros Stellar acceleration from turbocharged V8 Exceptional handling and stability for a heavy SUV Strong braking performance Wonderfully contoured seats hold you in place during hard cornering.
Cons Firm ride even with suspension in its softest setting Small cargo area Poor rearward visibility Limited rear headroom Sloping rear roofline makes for challenging entry and exit.
Who could have imagined marrying the tall ride height and all-wheel-drive ability of an SUV with the fastback styling of a sleek coupe would produce a desirable vehicle, but that’s exactly what BMW has done with the 2017 X6 SUV. Once an army of one, the X6 has been cloned by such notables as the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe. Frankly we’re somewhat puzzled by the X6’s appeal. It isn’t a very off-road-capable vehicle and comes up short in areas designated for cargo and passengers. The 2017 BMW X6’s size precludes it from being as sporty as an Infiniti QX30 or Lexus NF, and yet despite these many drawbacks, the X6 is remarkably fun to drive and seems to have gained a loyal following.
Pros If you’re looking for a luxury SUV with unique looks, good handling and a lengthy options list, the 2017 BMW X6 SUV might appeal to you. It doesn’t come cheap, but then again what BMW does?
Cons If you need any part of the “utility” in Sport-Utility Vehicle, the 2017 BMW X6’s tiny cargo area, sharply slanted rear hatch and small rear seat probably won’t impress you. An X5 gives you similar performance as the X6 within a far more usable package.
The biggest demerit to the X6 M comes in its ride quality, which ranges from firm to unacceptably, jarringly firm, depending on how its air suspension is adjusted. On roads that are less than perfect, the head toss gets to be enough that wearing a helmet as protection against the suede headliner seems like a not-terrible idea. And then you’d be ready for the track, which is where the X6 M best acquits itself. Not that we imagine actually spotting any at track days. With a $103,050 base price, the X6 M’s window sticker is as extravagant as its test sheet. Save the snarky jokes about this being a “German Aztek”—they weren’t all that funny when the first X6 showed up nearly a decade ago. And today, when the automotive world has gone all-in on both horsepower and crossovers, what can we expect but things like the X6 M? This sort of automotive indulgence has never made much sense, but that’s exactly the point.
