Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 with mild-hybrid tech revealed

Range-topping GLE gets the drivetrain first seen in CLS; makes 435hp and 519Nm.

Published On Feb 28, 2019 08:00:00 AM

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Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 with mild-hybrid tech revealed

Mercedes-AMG has revealed its new GLE 53 4Matic+ prior to its public premiere at the 2019 Geneva motor show.

The new range-topping GLE model is the latest in the line of models to receive AMG’s mild-hybrid drivetrain originally unveiled by the CLS 53. It combines parent company Mercedes-Benz's new twin-turbocharged, 3.0-litre, inline six-cylinder petrol engine, which features an electric auxiliary compressor to boost low-end torque, with an integrated starter motor and 48V electric system.

The output of the mild-hybrid drivetrain is put at a nominal 435hp at 6,100rpm and 519Nm of torque between 1,800rpm and 5,800rpm, with an additional 22hp and 249Nm provided by the starter motor, which acts as an electric motor for brief periods under acceleration. Altogether, this gives the new GLE 53 an extra 90hp and 249Nm over the old GLE 43, which ran a more conventional turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine without the electronic boosting technology used by its successor unit.

Drive is handled by a standard 8-speed torque converter-equipped AMG Speedshift TCT automatic gearbox and the company's performance car division’s fully variable 4Matic+ four-wheel-drive system.

Mercedes-AMG has yet to announce the kerb weight of the GLE 53, but it claims a 0-100kph time of 5.3sec – that's 0.4sec faster than the old GLE 43 – and an electronically governed top speed of 250kph.

The driver can choose from seven driving modes – Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Trail, Sand and Individual – via a standard AMG Dynamic Select program.

Together with the new EQ Boost powerplant and upgraded four-wheel-drive system, AMG has provided the GLE 53 with a speed-sensitive variable ratio electromechanical steering system, a uniquely tuned Active Ride Control air suspension with ride height adjustment and a self-levelling function, as well as a Ride Control system with continuously adjustable damping control.

Further modifications are centred at the brakes. They adopt 400mm front and 345mm rear discs with two-piston and single-piston calipers, respectively. The standard wheels are 20-inchers, with 21-inch and 22-inch rims available as options.

Stylistically, the GLE 53 is differentiated from other fourth-generation GLE models by AMG’s distinctive Panamericana grille. It is integrated into a more heavily structured front bumper featuring larger air ducts for the more efficient engine bay and front brake cooling.

Other styling upgrades include colour-keyed wheel-arch extensions and a uniquely styled rear bumper that houses a prominent diffuser and four chromed tailpipes.

Inside, the new AMG model can seat up to seven thanks to an optional third row of seats.

The performance treatment seen outside is mirrored in the new AMG digital graphics for the instruments, as well as the AMG Performance seats and the multi-function steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles.

The GLE’s MBUX operating system has also been updated with a new AMG Track Pace function, which gives the driver vehicle-specific data.

Also see:

Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 image gallery

2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE review, test drive

2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE video review

A look back on 25 years of Mercedes in India

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