We purchased a 2017 Mercedes-AMG GLE43 last month to replace our 2013 BMW X3 as our main family vehicle, driven mainly by my wife. Kids are growing up, so a larger vehicle was desirable. The other vehicle we considered was the 2017 BMW X5. Dollar for dollar, the GLE offered more for the money than the X5. To get comparable equipment in the X5 35i with M-sport performance package costed many thousands more (in Canada), yet would still be underpowered compared to the GLE43. The X5 may handle a bit better, but the difference would not be as relevant for a big truck/family hauler.
Yes, the GLE is a facelifted older model, but it felt a bit more "luxurious" to my wife and I when we sat in it. The X5 is nicer version of the X3 we had, but it didn't feel that much more special. We actually prefer the buttons on the centre stack of the older designed GLE, which allows instant access to Navigation, Radio, Phone, etc without the need to use the Command Controller (which is the latest version). The rear/surround camera display has much higher resolution in the GLE compared to the X5. The smaller steering wheel felt better too. The 43 AMG engine is punchy with excellent torque. There is a surprising exhaust note in Sport + mode. It is plenty fast enough for daily urban/city duties.
And I have to be honest about the AMG 43 models. Some people think AMG is diluting their brand by re-labelling these "450 AMG" cars into "AMG 43" cars. I think it's brilliant. There is a real perception of getting quite a bit of value in these cars, yet you give the customer a sense that they are buying something a little more special compared to the standard non-AMG models.
Bottom line, we love our new AMG GLE43. It's twin turbo V6 produces 362 HP, which is equal to my 12 year old C55's naturally aspirated V8 output, but it has slightly higher torque at 384 lb-ft, which comes in at much lower rpm's. Because of that, it feels more "punchy" in terms of acceleration off the line, even though it is ultimately slower than my C55.