Mercedes-Benz has expanded its limited-run Edition R package to the GLE53 SUV and Coupe.
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Mercedes-Benz Australia has announced a new AMG model is set to adopt the Edition R upgrade package.
Already seen on AMG vehicles, including the C43, GLC43, A35 and CLA45, the Edition R package adds select extras from the AMG performance catalogue to create a unique specification for the special-edition models.
In the case of the AMG GLE53 Edition R, the upgrades see a range of extras from the GLE63 range join the GLE53 equipment list.
The GLE53 Edition R comes equipped with the AMG Dynamic Plus Package, which adds AMG Active Ride Control, upgraded from the regular ‘AMG Ride Control+’ with active roll stabilisation.
The brakes also come in for an upgrade with AMG high-performance composite rotors measuring 400 x 38mm up front and 370 x 32mm in the rear, clamped by red-painted calipers.
The final 63-inspired touch is a set of 22-inch matte black cross-spoke alloy wheels with a machined lip, filling in for the GLE53’s regular 21-inch alloys.
Despite the handling and braking upgrades, the engine is untouched from the regular GLE53.
The GLE53 is powered by a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine assisted by an electric compressor and mild-hybrid system, producing 320kW and 520Nm.
The interior of the GLE53 SUV Edition R and GL53 Coupe Edition R differ slightly.
The SUV comes with Artico faux leather upholstery with red stitching, replacing he standard nappa leather usually equipped in the regular GLE 53, while the Coupe remains equipped with nappa leather trim.
Both get upgraded to the AMG Performance steering wheel trimmed in nappa leather and suede-look microfibre, equipped with AMG steering wheel buttons.
Red seatbelts and brushed aluminium trim inlays have also been added to the GLE53 Edition R, replacing the normal black belts and open-pore wood or carbon fibre options usually available on the GLE53.
Pricing for the GLE53 SUV Edition R starts from $184,100 plus on-road costs, while the GLE53 Coupe is priced from $188,100 before on-road costs.
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Kez Casey migrated from behind spare parts counters to writing about cars over ten years ago. Raised by a family of automotive workers, Kez grew up in workshops and panel shops before making the switch to reviews and road tests for The Motor Report, Drive and CarAdvice.
