Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe OEM Options Review

Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe: Addressing a Stylish SUV's Practicality Gap

The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, particularly AMG models, captivates with its sleek, low roofline and sporty profile. However, this elegant design comes with a trade-off: ingress and egress can be surprisingly challenging due to the vehicle's height. Even the standard fixed side steps offer a narrow platform, limiting their practical utility. This review explores a real-world upgrade: installing electric side steps on a GLE Coupe to enhance both convenience and aesthetics.

The Limitations of Fixed Side Steps

Many GLE models, especially performance-oriented AMG variants, come equipped with fixed side steps that, while visually present, fall short in both function and form. The narrow step area provides minimal stability when entering or exiting the vehicle, and their design often lacks the premium feel expected of an AMG. A more significant issue arises when attempting to combine these with other styling elements; they can disrupt the vehicle's sophisticated lines, forcing a compromise between practicality and visual appeal. Electric side steps, paired with the correct OEM side skirts, offer a comprehensive solution to these drawbacks.

Before and After: The Transformation

Our project involved a Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe W166 AMG. Before the upgrade, the vehicle featured the standard fixed side steps. These were noticeably low, requiring a significant knee bend for passengers, which can be particularly inconvenient for older individuals or those wearing skirts. The installation process began with the complete removal of the existing fixed steps. Following this, the team fitted the genuine side skirt base, which seamlessly follows the vehicle's natural contours, preserving the AMG's elegant side profile. The electric side steps were then precisely mounted to the underside of this new skirt. Integration with the vehicle's electrical system was crucial, involving the connection of wiring and control modules to the door opening sensors. This step requires precise coding and mapping, as each Mercedes-Benz model has a unique electrical architecture. The entire process, including verification of the electric step mechanism, wiring, and final operational tests, typically takes around 4 to 5 hours. This meticulous approach ensures safety and long-term durability.

The Result: Seamless Integration and Enhanced Functionality

Post-installation, the GLE Coupe's side profile is dramatically enhanced. The genuine side skirts create a more elongated and refined appearance. The electric side steps, finished in an all-black scheme, blend harmoniously with the vehicle's body. A standout detail is the AMG logo subtly integrated into the step's surface, signifying a premium upgrade that adds a touch of luxury to every entry and exit. Operation is intuitive: the steps automatically extend when a door is opened and retract when it's closed, a process taking approximately 2-3 seconds. The deployed step offers a significantly wider platform than the fixed version, extending forward at a slight angle (around 20 degrees) for superior stability. When retracted during driving, they maintain the vehicle's aerodynamic efficiency.

Estimated US Price: $150+ (for parts and labor, depending on specific vehicle and options)