Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 arrives with 429bhp mild-hybrid straight six

The new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4Matic+ has made its public debut at the 2019 Geneva motor show.

The new range-topping Mercedes-Benz GLE model is the latest in a growing number of cars 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 in-line 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 429bhp at 6100rpm and 383lb ft of torque between 1800rpm and 5800rpm, with an additional 22bhp and 184lb ft provided by the starter motor, which acts as an electric motor for brief periods under acceleration. Altogether, this provides the new GLE 53 with 89bhp and 184lb ft more than the old GLE 43, which ran a more conventional turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine without the electronic boosting technology.

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

Mercedes-AMG has yet to announce a kerb weight figure for the GLE 53, but it claims a 0-62mph time of 5.3sec – 0.4sec faster than the old GLE 43 – and an electronically governed top speed of 155mph. Combined fuel consumption on the NEDC test procedure is a claimed 41.2mpg for an average CO2 emission figure of 212g/km.

The driver can choose between seven different 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.