Mercedes-AMG is extending its offering of AMG sports models. The GLE 450 AMG 4MATIC is already the third vehicle in this new line.
The power SUV facilitates a further, attractive way of entering the AMG performance world. The hallmark characteristics of the sports models include the enhanced engine output and the higher torque of the 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine, the specific AMG suspension, the Sports Direct-Steer system, the nine-stage automatic transmission 9G TRONIC and the permanent all-wheel drive 4MATIC with the rear-biased torque distribution of 40:60.
The new V6 top model of the GLE series facilitates impressive driving performance: acceleration, handling and top speed are on a par with those of sports saloons.
The new GLE 450 AMG 4MATIC impresses with agility and sportiness. The immediate and direct implementation of all driving commands, combined with the powerful yet not overpowering sound of the sports exhaust system, create a highly emotive and appealing driving feel.
With the five drive programmes Individual, Comfort, Slippery, Sport and Sport Plus the characteristics of the new GLE 450 AMG 4MATIC can be modified depending on the driving situation. The interventions occur via numerous parameters such as throttle response, load development, switch points, shift speed, chassis, steering, engine sound or instrumentation.
"Sport" and "Sport Plus" turn the GLE 450 AMG 4MATIC into a sporty, dynamic vehicle with pronounced longitudinal and transverse dynamics for plenty of fun at the wheel on winding stretches of road. In the "Comfort" setting the emphasis is on relaxed, effortlessly superior cruising plus driving power that is as energy-efficient aspossible.
"Slippery" mode optimises the handling on surfaces with low friction coefficients such as snow or ice. In addition, "Individual" mode enables the driver to programme and store personal preferences in the individual setting parameters, regardless of the engine variant.
Depending on the drive programme, the nine-stage automatic transmission 9G-TRONIC changes gears with high agility and responsiveness or effortless calm. The potential of the new transmission is exploited to the full. It offers an impressively high shift speed and perfect transitions for energetic sprinting, as well as gentle, barely perceptible gear shifting for enjoyable travelling. The transmission's large kingpin inclination enables cruising with the lowest engine speed during relaxed driving. This simultaneously ensures optimum efficiency.
The AMG development engineers have also specifically designed the standard-fit permanent all-wheel drive 4MATIC for performance-orientated use in the GLE 450 AMG. The drive torque is distributed in a ratio of 40:60 (front axle:rear axle). This rear-biased configuration raises the lateral dynamics to an above-average level - supported by the perfect interplay with the adapted acceleration skid control ASR, the ESP? with Curve Dynamic Assist and the all-wheel drive control system 4ETS. Also new is the specific AMG rear axle transmission with a shorter ratio of 3.47:1.
As standard, the vehicle comes with the AIRMATIC package including an air suspension, infinitely variable adaptive damping system (ADS Plus) and automatic level control. The damping system changes its priorities from highly dynamic to comfort-orientated depending on the drive programme. The current operating conditions are detected via a steering angle sensor, four turning angle sensors and the driving speed from the ESP? signal and the brake pedal switch. The control unit uses these signals for infinitely variable adjustment of the current damping force required for each individual wheel. In "Sport" and "Sport Plus" mode the body is lowered by 15 millimetres.
In combination with the newly configured, degressive Sports Direct-Steer system, the steering ratio of which is very direct at 17.4:1, and the compact sports steering wheel, the handling is outstanding in all operating conditions - whether manoeuvring in the city, at high speeds on the motorway, or with a brisk style of driving on winding mountain passes.
The sportily striking design makes the enhanced performance discernible at first glance: the two chromed twin tailpipe trims and the black-painted and high-sheen 50.8 cm (20-inch) 5-spoke light-alloy wheels in the dimension 265/45 R 20 plus exclusive trim in black and silver chrome ensure a clear differentiation. On request 5-twin-spoke 53.3 cm (21-inch) light-alloy wheels are also available.
The interior of the GLE 450 AMG 4MATIC is enhanced by the nappa leather sports steering wheel with its flattened bottom section, as well as the trim parts in light longitudinal-grain aluminium and brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs. Sporty round dials on the instrument cluster, including a 280 km/h speedometer scale, signal pure dynamism even while the car is at a standstill. AMG carbon fibre/black piano lacquer trim enhances the appearance of the interior as an additional option.
