If you grew up in a family that owned Mercedes Benz you more than likely have fond childhood memories of a luxurious smooth and quiet ride, plush and springy backseats, and depending on which trim level your Mom had, maybe a hint of style. One impression you almost certainly don’t have is one of speed and performance.
The Mercedes of today is something entirely different.
Take the new 2024 AMG GLE53. It seats the same number of people as your childhood car, but that’s where the similarities end. The GLE53 has 3 forms of boost producing 429HP - to put that into perspective the 1985 Mercedes 300d made 123HP. Rotate the steering wheel mounted mode selector to sport+ and the GLE53 barks to life by opening the valves on the dynamic performance exhaust. It snarls and growls its way through all nine gears. For something of its size and weight, the GLE53 drives like a dream. It’s fast and aggressive when you want it to be and with the turn of a dial, it's calm, silky smooth, and luxurious. Truly two cars in one.
As good as the performance is, where the GLE53 really shines is the interior. The fit and finish are the industry standard at this price point. The Burmester stereo my photo car was optioned with is about as good as a car sound system can get. Everything your hands interact with is pleasing to the touch, easy to use, and intuitive. That last point- intuitive is important, I drive and photograph a lot of cars and you’d be surprised how many high-end brands completely overlook the importance of intuitive controls and functions.
My biggest takeaway from spending time with the GLE53 was the fun factor. It's a fun and happy car that wants to be driven enthusiastically. The excellent suspension hides the car's overall mass making it feel like a much smaller, nimbler car and the abundant power makes you feel like you could give Lewis Hamilton a run for his money if he pulled up next to you at a light.
The amazing thing about the current Mercedes inventory is that an entry-level model will feel distinctly similar to the GLE53 I drove, the Mercedes DNA and design language are present throughout the entire line-up. If you’re interested in looking at the modern Mercedes lineup be sure to visit Mercedes Benz of Nashville located at 630 Bakers Bridge Ave in Franklin.
mercedesbenzofnashville.com
AMG GLE 53 Coupe
Engine: 3.0L inline-6 turbo with hybrid assist
Power: 429 hp @ 6,100 rpm
Acceleration: 4.9 sec 0-60 mph
Passenger capacity: 5
