New Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4Matic+, also available with hybrid powertrain

A few days ago we showed you how Mercedes-Benz has revitalised the styling and technology of its luxurious GLE, a model that also has versions from Mercedes-AMG, and now it is their turn, not only in terms of styling and technology but also with regard to various mechanical components, as we will see below.

On the outside, as you can see, it loses not a whit of elegance while combining a sober sporty touch that enhances its image. This is achieved through specific front and rear bumpers with chrome trim that accentuates its lines, as well as other details such as the vertical-slat grille typical of AMG versions or, at the rear, the discreet yet striking rear diffuser that integrates the two twin exhaust outlets. The side, large alloy wheels and various designs make the difference, all complemented by the new Hightech Silver Magno colour from Manufaktur, included as standard equipment.

Inside the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4Matic+ we find all the new technology and design we recently saw in the standard versions, but all wrapped in an atmosphere with a sportier feel. Thus, when we open its doors we will be welcomed by four variants of nappa leather in colours that can range, for example, from tartufo brown and carmine red to yacht blue, among others, as well as other details such as the inserts with specific AMG finishes and the microfibre headliner.

Mechanically, the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4Matic+ can be chosen with mild-hybrid 48 V technology or as a plug-in hybrid, in both cases powered by the M256 EVO 3.0-litre six-cylinder inline engine with 449 CV and a torque of 600 Nm in the mild-hybrid version, also having 40 extra Nm for 10 seconds. In the plug-in hybrid version this engine is combined with a 135 kW electric motor, resulting in a combined system output of 585 CV and a torque of 750 Nm. In both cases the gearbox is the 9-speed AMG Speedshift TCT transmission.

It is worth noting that the GLE 53 Hybrid 4Matic+, thanks to the battery that forms part of its hybrid system, can travel up to a maximum of 99 kilometres with SUV bodywork, or up to 93 kilometres with Coupé bodywork, in fully electric mode, provided speeds of 140 km/h are not exceeded. AC charging is supported by an 11 kW on-board charger fitted as standard, and a 60 kW DC fast charger can optionally be requested, with which charging from 10% to 80% takes about 20 minutes.

Both feature AMG’s characteristic driving modes (“Slippery”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport+”, “Trail” and “Individual”), to which “Electric” and “Battery Hold” are added for the plug-in hybrid version. Finally, AMG has revised the AMG Ride Control+ air suspension with adaptive adjustment according to driving conditions and the selected driving mode. This suspension can optionally be replaced by AMG Active Ride Control with active roll stabilisation for the 48-volt version. Taking advantage of these changes, the ESP has now been completely renewed with new control strategies that are even more precise.