Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Debuts With 429 HP Turbo Inline Six

The GLE 53 is the third model to receive Mercedes’ mild hybrid performance powertrain after it debuted in the E 53 AMG and CLS 53 AMG last year. The turbocharged inline-six and 48V motor make 429 and 384 lb-ft of torque in the SUV, where the engine is paired with all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup will propel the SUV from 0-60 mph in just 5.2s and on to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

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Ensuring this SUV stays planted through the corners is a new AMG Active Ride Control system, which taps into the 48V electrical system to provide active roll stabilization using actuators at the front and rear axles. This allows for greater suspension adjustability than what was already offered with the ‘Airmatic’ air suspension system in the standard GLE and also reduces pitch and roll in the sportier driving modes.

Speaking of the drive modes, there are seven: ‘Slippery’, ‘Comfort’,’ Sport’, Sport+ ‘Trail’ and ‘Sand’.’ There’s also AMG’s familiar ‘Individual’ setting, which allows you to pick your own specific settings for the powertrain, suspension and power steering.

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Visually, the GLE 53 is set apart by its AMG-specific front and rear fascias, AMG badging, 20-inch alloy wheels and AMG exhaust tips. Inside, the SUV gets available red contrasting stitching and accents, along with microfiber seats, red seatbelts, aluminum trim (carbon fiber is available as an option) and a multi-function AMG steering wheel. Mercedes’ familiar MBUX infotainment system is also present, just like on the standard GLE, and features AMG-specific layouts that place important performance parameters front-and-center.

The 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 will debut at the Geneva International Motor Show next month before going on sale in the U.S. in late 2020.

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