Mercedes‘ Geneva reveals this year include the AMG GLE 53. It’s one of the better-looking crossovers to emerge for the new model year, and boasts enough power to make even routine daily outings a touch exciting.
Mercedes-AMG’s mid-range SUV stands out with a 15-bar AMG ‘Panamericana’ grille, a chrome-rimmed rear diffuser, and 20-inch light alloy wheels. The vehicle’s interior is equally impressive with the addition of red seatbelts, contrast stitching, and an MBUX infotainment system.
Driving modes include Individual, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Slipper. New Offroad modes—Trail and Sand—aid in off-road traction and reduce slip-angle requirements for a superior offroad experience.
Efficiency is the name of the game, though. The GLE 53’s engine is an efficient little wonder: a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six that’ll produce a substantial 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. An EQ Boost starter-generator gives the new model boasts 44 more hp than the GLE 43 without undue fuel consumption, and the model receives a nine-speed gearbox to keep it purring at higher speeds. Which it can handle very well, apparently: the GLE 53 can sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds; top speed is electronically capped at 155 MPH.
The GLE 53’s cabin looks plenty contemporary, with aluminum and carbon fiber accents lending a bit of slick urbanity to the leather, and red accent stitching providing a subtle reminder regarding the AMG designation and DNA.
The AMG GLE 53 will see deliveries on U.S. shores at some point in 2020.