- New 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with even more agile response and high-performance character.
- Powerful, sonorous sound and supercharging for a particularly sporty driving experience.
- Fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive with electronically controlled limited-slip differential on the rear axle.
Sporty driving pleasure, an emotive six-cylinder soundtrack and fully variable all-wheel drive with dynamic Drift mode: the new Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 4MATIC+ (combined fuel consumption: 9.9-9.2 l/100 km | combined CO2 emissions: 225-209 g/km | CO2 class: G) promises a typical AMG driving experience with even more pleasure when driving on winding country roads. At the heart of the new model is the 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with twin charging via an exhaust gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor. The engine produces 330 kW (449 hp) and delivers a maximum torque of a considerable 600 Nm (with 640 Nm boost for 10 seconds at 5,200 rpm). The high-performance six-cylinder engine has been completely redesigned and impresses with even more agile response and a strong appetite for revs.
The revamped six-cylinder block is complemented by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC+ variable all-wheel drive. It also features an electronically controlled limited-slip differential on the rear axle with Drift Mode, available for the first time in an AMG SUV. This allows experienced drivers to explore the full range of driving dynamics on closed circuits.
Six cylinders in line with new cylinder head and new intake system
The new GLC 53 4MATIC+ is powered by the revamped 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbo engine. Engine enhancements include a new cylinder head with improved intake and exhaust ducts and a new intake camshaft. In addition, there is a new intake system with increased volume and a new intercooler. These extensive modifications result in improved torque delivery and even more responsive performance. Customers will experience powerful acceleration across the entire rev range, making the driving experience even more agile and sporty.
A boost pressure of 1.5 bar thanks to the optimised exhaust gas turbocharger enables ample torque with strong performance at high revs. The electric auxiliary compressor can now operate almost continuously for a longer period. It now increases by up to 7.5 kW of electrical power (previously 5.0 kW), further improving throttle response. In addition, the overall power curve is adapted to a higher engine speed range. As a result, the torque plateau has been extended, reaching a maximum of 600 Nm in continuous operation. When supercharged at 5,200 rpm, it is possible to achieve up to 640 Nm of torque for up to ten seconds.
The integrated second-generation starter generator (ISG) is compactly packaged in the transmission bell housing. As a central component of the 48-volt on-board electrical system, it functions not only as an electric generator but also takes on hybrid functions. These include short-term supercharging with 17 kW of power and 205 Nm of torque, recuperation, load point shifting, coasting and the almost imperceptible restart of the engine during the start-stop function.
The performance figures leave nothing to be desired: acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 4.2 seconds (with RACE START from the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package). The electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h can be increased to 270 km/h with the optional AMG Driver’s Package.
The powerful and emotive sound of the engine is further enhanced by a new exhaust system. It features special resonators that further amplify the sound experience. The characteristic crackling sound when lifting off the throttle creates spine-tingling moments, as do the AMG-typical misfires and the deep sound during hard acceleration. The intensity depends on the selected driving programme.
AMG Real Performance Sound with a manually controllable flap exhaust system is available as an option.
Optimised shift times, high efficiency: AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission
The 3.0-litre in-line engine is coupled with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission, which impresses with its short shift times, fast reactions, double-clutch function and multiple downshifts. The transmission is particularly responsive in ‘Sport+’ driving mode and in manual mode. Depending on the selected driving programme, there are dynamic acceleration manoeuvres and adapted shift times, as well as fuel-efficient driving. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission can be shifted manually using the galvanised shift paddles behind the steering wheel, both on the left and right.
More character at the touch of a button: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT
The five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes ‘Slippery’, ‘Comfort’, ‘Sport’, ‘Sport+’ and “Individual” allow you to customise the character of the vehicle at the touch of a button. In addition, the ‘RACE’ driving mode is available with the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package. The difference ranges from efficient and comfortable to very sporty. Important parameters such as engine response, transmission, chassis and steering are modified. Regardless of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving programmes, the driver can switch directly to manual mode using the ‘M’ button to change gears exclusively using the steering wheel shift paddles. Chassis levels can also be selected separately if required.
Integrated into the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving programmes is the AMG DYNAMICS driving dynamics control system. In the ‘Basic’, “Advanced” and ‘Pro’ settings, it influences, for example, the control strategies of the ESP® (Electronic Stability Programme) or the all-wheel drive. Based on driver inputs and sensor data, the intelligent pre-control system anticipates the desired vehicle behaviour. The spectrum ranges from stable to highly dynamic, allowing for a more comfort-oriented or particularly sporty driving experience. The AMG DYNAMICS functions can also be selected directly via the AMG steering wheel buttons. Both the modifiable vehicle characteristics and the extensive equipment options allow for a wide range between sportiness and comfort, depending on the individual wishes of the customer.
Fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive as standard
The GLC 53 comes with fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive as standard. This combines optimum traction for dynamic driving pleasure with high driving safety under a variety of conditions: on dry roads as well as in wet conditions or on slippery surfaces.
The transition from rear-wheel drive to all-wheel drive and vice versa occurs continuously because intelligent control is integrated into the entire vehicle system architecture. It also allows the towing capacity to be increased from the previous 1,800 kg to 2,400 kg. The application of power distribution is differentiated.
In moderate driving, where all-wheel drive is not required, the front axle is completely decoupled. This increases efficiency. From the ESP® Sport setting onwards, the handling is designed to be more rear-biased. In Drift Mode, available with the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package, the new GLC 53 acts as a rear-wheel drive vehicle across the entire speed range.
This is supported by the electronically controlled rear axle limited-slip differential, available for the first time in the GLC. It is also part of the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package and ensures excellent traction and driving pleasure in all driving conditions. It also improves driving stability when changing lanes, especially at high speeds. The system operates with a fully variable locking effect in traction and overtaking modes. It is adjusted to all road friction coefficients and communicates permanently with the other control units relevant to driving dynamics.
AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension for high driving dynamics and comfort
The AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension, developed in Affalterbach, is used for agile handling and high traction. The new fine-tuned steel suspension, with its own spring damper system and adjustable adaptive damping, offers greater variety between dynamic driving behaviour and relaxed long-distance comfort. The damping is adapted to the current driving situation and road conditions at each wheel. This happens quickly and precisely via separate valves for the rebound and compression stages in the shock absorbers. In addition, the damper characteristic can be preselected in three stages: ‘Comfort’, “Sport” and ‘Sport+’, allowing a noticeable difference between high comfort and sporty driving dynamics.
The AMG high-performance braking system is tailored to the power and performance of the GLC 53: internally ventilated discs measuring 390 x 36 mm with four-piston fixed callipers and AMG lettering are used on the front axle, and internally ventilated discs measuring 360 x 26 mm with single-piston floating callipers are used on the rear axle.
Three-stage AMG steering and rear-axle steering as standard
The steering layout also contributes to increased dynamics and comfort. The new GLC 53 features three-stage AMG steering that adapts to the selected driving programme. When manoeuvring and parking, relatively little effort is required, while at higher speeds the driver experiences even more feedback, especially in the ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport+’ chassis settings, thanks to the adapted steering characteristic curve.
The standard rear-axle steering operates with a maximum steering angle of 2.5 degrees. At speeds of up to 100 km/h (variable depending on the AMG DYNAMICS setting), the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels. This leads to significantly more agile turn-in, less steering effort and better handling. For example, the turning circle is noticeably reduced when turning or parking. At speeds above 100 km/h (variable depending on the AMG DYNAMICS setting), the rear wheels turn parallel to the front wheels, up to a maximum of 0.7 degrees. This has a positive effect on driving stability: it builds up lateral force more quickly during direction changes, allowing the vehicle to react more directly to steering commands.
The AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package
For an even sportier driving experience, the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package includes high-performance equipment for special dynamism. Highlights include the electronically controlled rear axle limited-slip differential and the RACE driving programme with Drift Mode. Active engine mounts provide optimised engine-to-body connection depending on the situation, thus improving vehicle dynamics, especially at high speeds. The AMG Performance steering wheel in MICROCUT microfibre features steering wheel buttons for quick operation of the driving programmes and other driving dynamics settings. Red-painted brake callipers with AMG lettering on the front and rear axles visually emphasise the sporty character.
Golden Accents package with exquisite elements
The optional Golden Accents package will be available for one year from its market launch. Obsidian Black Metallic or Magno Graphite Grey paint colours are combined here on the exterior with numerous details in Techgold. In addition, extensive equipment details emphasise the special look.
The subtle foil on the sides of the car with the AMG logo is another optional distinctive feature. The 21-inch AMG forged wheels in matt black with a cross-spoke design are accentuated with Techgold rims and hub caps.
Behind the wheels, shiny black brake callipers with white AMG logos can be seen. A refined detail is the silver chrome fuel filler cap with AMG lettering and black design elements.
With the AMG Night Package, exterior elements such as the exterior mirror housings and trim strips are finished in high-gloss black. Together with the dark chrome trim on the exhaust pipe and door handles, this creates smooth transitions. In addition, there is the AMG Night Package II. It is ideal for individualists who appreciate high-quality design details. Other elements such as the radiator grille struts, the AMG emblem on the bonnet and the type designations are finished in black chrome here.
The AMG DESIGN PLUS package is also included, comprising:
- Front apron with enlarged front splitter and additional flics in high-gloss black.
- Longer AMG spoiler edge on the roof spoiler (SUV) or tailgate (coupé) in body colour.
- Side edges for separating the airflow around the rear apron light outlets in high-gloss black.
- Diffuser blade in high-gloss black.
Sporty interior with special details
The interior of the Golden Accents Package is also clearly designed: the AMG sports seats are upholstered in elegant black leather, with stylish accents on the seat bolsters and decorative stitching, which match the exterior details and provide attractive contrasts to the seat surfaces. The door panels and instrument panel also feature contrasting decorative stitching in the same colour. The AMG carbon trim elements are woven with metallic threads, matching the Techgold details of the package.
Attention to detail is also evident in the AMG door sill panels. They feature an AMG pattern design in black and illuminate the AMG logo in white. AMG floor mats with decorative stitching in beige complete the interior enhancements.
Data at a glance
About MERCEDES-BENZ AG
Mercedes-Benz AG is part of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, with a total of around 175,000 employees worldwide, and is responsible for the global business of Mercedes-Benz Cars and Mercedes-Benz Vans. Ola Källenius is Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz AG. The company’s focus is on the development, production and sale of passenger cars and vans, as well as vehicle-related services. In addition, the company aims to become a leader in electromobility and vehicle software. The product portfolio includes the Mercedes-Benz brand with Mercedes-AMG, Mercedes-Maybach and G-Class with its fully electric models, as well as products from the smart brand. Mercedes-Benz AG is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of premium passenger cars. In 2024, approximately 2.4 million passenger cars and vans were sold. In these two business segments, Mercedes-Benz AG is continuously developing its global production network with more than 30 production sites on four continents, aligning itself with the requirements of electromobility. At the same time, the global battery production network is being established and expanded on three continents. Sustainability is the guiding principle of the Mercedes-Benz strategy and means creating lasting value for all stakeholders: for customers, employees, investors, business partners and society as a whole. This is based on the Mercedes-Benz Group’s sustainable corporate strategy. The company therefore takes responsibility for the economic, ecological and social impacts of its business activities and considers the entire value chain. As an internationally active company, equal opportunities, diversity, openness and respect are among the fundamental beliefs of Mercedes-Benz. We demonstrate this in the way we think, act and communicate. All terms chosen naturally include all genders and identities.
Source: MERCEDES-BENZ Communications Department