Mercedes-Benz India, which closed 2015 on an all-time high of 13,502 unit sales (+32%), today launched its first car of 2016 – the GLE 450 AMG Coupé at Rs 86.4 lakh.

The crossover-coupé is based on the recently launched regular GLE SUV, and sports a distinctive swooping roof-line. The nose features a single-slat grille flanked by LED headlamps and an aggressive looking bumper, while the roofline terminates into an S-class coupé-like rear end. Plastic body cladding, splashes of chrome up front and at the rear, a dual exhaust system and 21-inch wheels complete the 2.2-tonne crossover’s aggressive design.

The coupé carries over the standard GLE’s interiors, but is more luxurious, given the generous use of perforated Nappa-leather all around the cabin. Other highlights of the interiors include carbon-fibre trim, a sport steering wheel, sport seats, stainless steel pedals and the latest Comand infotainment system.

The 450 AMG is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine that develops 362bhp and 53kgm of torque, which enables the crossover to complete the 0-100kph dash in a sportscar-like 5.7 seconds. Power is sent to all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic gearbox that offers five driving modes – comfort, slippery, sport, sport+ and individual. Each mode modulates chassis, suspension, steering wheel and powertrain settings as per driving and terrain conditions.

Speaking at the launch in Mumbai today, Roland Folger, managing director and CEO, Mercedes- Benz India, said, “We kick-start 2016 by introducing a thrilling and powerful product from our global portfolio – the GLE 450 AMG Coupé. The GLE 450 AMG Coupé is a valuable addition to our versatile SUV portfolio in India. This one-of-a-kind performance SUV is sure to delight the customers with its raw power output level, exhaust system, a sleek design with multifarious features and an active sports light system.”

The GLE 450 AMG Coupé will go up against the BMW X6 and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo.