Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ Unveiled, Mild Hybrid, 435 hp

Mercedes-AMG has further expanded its 53 series with the introduction of the GLE 53.

Power comes courtesy of a 3.0-litre in-line six petrol engine which generates 435 hp and 520 Nm of torque, and an EQ Boost starter generator which provides an additional 16 kW of output plus 250 Nm of torque, and additionally feeds the 48V on-board electrical system.

Paired to the engine is the AMG Speeshift TCT nine-speed torque converter automatic transmission which sends power to all four wheels via the 4Matic+ AWD system. Further complementing the package is AMG’s Active Ride Control air suspension with active roll stabilization, pneumatic self-levelling axles, seven driving modes (Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Trail, Sand, Individual, Slippery), and a high performance braking system.

Based on the W167 Mercedes-Benz GLE, the GLE 53, which is built on the brand’s Modular High Architecture platform, is able to do the century sprint in an impressive 5.3 seconds, and hit an electronically-limited top speed of 250 km/h.

On the exterior, key features include AMG-specific radiator grille with 15 vertical chromed strips, narrow headlamps with striking A-Wing in the front apron, a chrome-plated front splitter, standard 20-inch light alloy wheels, chromed twin tailpipes, and an optional AMG Night Package.

Inside, the GLE 53 features red colour accents on the seats which are covered in Artico/ Dinamica man-made leather, an instrument panel which is also covered in Artico man-made leather, a black roof liner, and aluminium brushed trim elements with light longitudinal grain, and an AMG Performance steering wheel.

There is also the optional foldable third row of seats which make the GLE 53 a seven-seater if desired. Thanks to the Easy Entry function of the fully electrically adjustable second seat row, the two rearmost passengers can conveniently reach their seats.

Infotainment is taken care by the MBUX system which comes as standard, with numerous AMG-specific content.

The instrument cluster has its own specific details such as the AMG start-up menu and the four selectable styles (Classic, Sport, AMG exclusive Supersport, and Discreet).

Also worth mentioning here are the optional AMG Track Pace feature, which is basically a virtual engineer which enables up to 80 vehicle-specific data such as 0 – 100 km/h sprint time, and lap time among others, to be recorded and analysed in detail.

Many of these values can be displayed if desired on the widescreen cockpit or in the optional head-up display in real-time. 

Last but not least, the GLE 53 also comes with an exclusive fragrance for the interior named "AMG#63" as part of the Air-Balance package. According to the company, it is an inspiring, sporty scent to match the spirit of the performance sports car brand.