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2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE is a stronger GLE 43, whose twin-turbo V6 rises from 362 to 385 horsepower. The V8 models carry over mechanically, though the GLE 63 loses several formerly standard comfort features.
About the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE
W166 SUV and C292 Coupe, late-cycle: third model year after the GLE launch and refresh; the SUV uses the third-generation M-Class/GLE platform, while the Coupe is in its first generation.
Mercedes-AMG positions the GLE as a five-passenger luxury SUV that combines strong everyday utility with sports-car-like acceleration and road-focused handling. Across upright SUV and fastback Coupe bodies, its defining traits are rear-biased AWD, height-adjustable air suspension, powerful brakes, and engines ranging from a twin-turbo V6 to handcrafted V8s. It targets drivers who need passenger and cargo space but want a more aggressive engine response, sound, and cornering character than a conventional luxury SUV.
The GLE 43 is the entry point to the performance range, pairing a 385-hp twin-turbo V6 with rear-biased AWD, adaptive air suspension, navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The GLE 63 uses a 550-hp V8 in the upright SUV body, while the 577-hp GLE 63 S comes in SUV and fastback Coupe forms; both have Nappa leather and a surround-view parking camera.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The GLE 43's 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 gains 23 horsepower, rising from 362 to 385 hp through higher turbo boost and reduced internal friction. The GLE 63 and GLE 63 S retain their 550- and 577-hp V8s.
Tech and comfort
On the GLE 63, the heated steering wheel, panoramic moonroof, and ventilated front seats move from standard equipment to optional equipment.
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 5.5 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 5.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 9-Spd w/9G-Tronic Sport / Automatic, 9-Spd 9G-Tronic | Automatic, 7-Spd w/7G-Tronic & AMG SPEEDSHIFT Plus | Automatic, 7-Spd w/7G-Tronic & AMG SPEEDSHIFT Plus |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 14 mpg | 14 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22–23 mpg | 17 mpg | 17–18 mpg |
| Horsepower | 385 hp | 550 hp | 577 hp |
| Torque | 384 lb-ft | 516 lb-ft | 561 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7200 lb | 7198 lb | 7198–7200 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 23–80.3 cu-ft | 80.3 cu-ft | 23–80.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38.4 in | 38.4 in | 38.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Headlights | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| 360 Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Power Close Liftgate/Trunk | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Subwoofer | |||
| Video Input | |||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | |||
| Cooled Seats | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Memory Front Seats | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Rear Window Shades | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE?
The biggest change is the GLE 43's stronger engine. Its twin-turbo V6 produces 385 horsepower for 2018, up 23 hp from the 2017 model.
Is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE a redesign?
No, the 2018 AMG GLE is not a redesign. It is a late-cycle model with a power increase for the GLE 43 and a few standard-equipment changes on the GLE 63, but no broad styling, safety, structural, or infotainment update.
Did the 2018 AMG GLE 63 and GLE 63 S gain more power?
No, the V8 models did not gain more power for 2018. The GLE 63 keeps its 550-hp twin-turbo V8, and the GLE 63 S retains its 577-hp version.
What standard equipment changed on the 2018 AMG GLE 63?
The heated steering wheel, panoramic moonroof, and ventilated front seats are optional on the 2018 GLE 63 after being standard in 2017.
Is the 2018 AMG GLE 43 meaningfully different from the 2017 model?
Yes, but the difference is focused on engine output. The 2018 GLE 43 has 385 horsepower instead of 362, while the rest of the model avoids a broad redesign or major equipment overhaul.
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE.
4.3
2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE
(92 reviews)
“Amazing vehicle. Loaded with technology that promotes both joy of driving and safety.”
“It's okay...the sporty rose is a little rough. I would a powerful car with a more smooth ride like I found in my Range Rover.”