New Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4Matic+ gets hybrid boost
Mercedes has revealed the all-new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4Matic+, expected to make its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show later in the year. The GLE 53 is the latest model to adopt the mild hybrid system as seen on the CLS 53.
Power is sourced from a 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V6, working alongside an electric set-up, consisting of a compressor, starter motor and 48V electric motor. The result is a power output of 320kW of power and 520Nm of torque, with an extra 16kW and 250Nm from the starter motor.
A snappy 8-speed automatic transmission sends drive to each wheel through Mercedes’ fully variable 4Matic+ four-wheel drive system, accelerating the SUV from 0-100km/h in 5.3-seconds. The hybrid system also provides advantages in fuel economy with the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 claiming an average of 5.7-litres/100km.
The driver is spoilt for choice with a total of seven driving modes – Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Trail, Sand and Individual – which make the SUV behave differently by adjusting factors like its Active Ride Control air suspension, which controls ride height adjustment and a self-levelling function as well as a continuously adjustable damping control.
The styling of the GLE 53 adopts the usual AMG treatment. Standard wheels take the form of 20-inches, while larger 21-inch and 22-inch wheels are optional. The bold Panamericana grille makes an appearance on top of an aggressive front bumper. A sporty diffuser houses four round chrome tailpipes at the back, under a set of new taillights.
The interior infuses sportiness with comfort, evident by the optional third-row of seats. The instrument cluster is fully digital, integrated with a multi-function steering wheel and aluminium shift paddles. The GLE 53 also features a new AMG Track Pace function that records data on 0-100km/h, quarter-mile and 100-0km/h times. The function is only available on closed roads, away from public roads.
