Plug-In Power for Next Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Hybrid

Mercedes-AMG reveals the GLE 53 Hybrid 4Matic+, confirming it is forgoing the mild-hybrid drivetrain of its predecessor for a plug-in hybrid system with up to 536 hp and 553 lb-ft. of torque.

Set for North American sale in 2024, the facelifted performance CUV is the first AMG model to receive the new gasoline-electric system, which includes a series of electrification developments already seen on parent company Mercedes-Benz’s GLE 400e 4Matic and GLE 350de 4Matic.

The GLE 53 Hybrid 4Matic+ combines a newly developed version of Mercedes-AMG’s turbocharged 3.0L inline 6-cyl. gasoline engine with a gearbox-mounted electric motor and a 31.2-kWh lithium-ion battery.

The reworked internal-combustion engine develops 443 hp, while the electric motor contributes up to 134 hp, according to the German automaker.

The combined system output of 536 hp and 553 lb.-ft. (750 Nm) is a significant 87 hp and 170 lb.-ft. (230 Nm) more than the earlier GLE 53 4Matic+, whose mild-hybrid drivetrain develops 449 hp and 383 lb.-ft. (519 Nm) in combination with a starter-generator.

Mercedes-AMG GLE engine_0

By comparison, the BMW X5 M60i and X6 M60i’s mild-hybrid drivetrain develops 523 hp and the same 553 lb.-ft.

Electrical energy used to power the GLE 53 Hybrid 4Matic+’s motor is stored in a 31.2-kWh battery – the same unit used by the facelifted GLE 400e and GLE 350de. It can be charged at up to 11 kW on an AC charger and at up to 60 kW on a DC system.

The new plug-in hybrid system offers up to seven driving modes: Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Smoothness, Individual, Electric and Battery Hold.

AMG claims a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 4.7 seconds. This is 0.4 second inside the time quoted for the earlier GLE 53 4Matic+. Top speed remains limited to 155 mph (249 km/h).

The electric range is estimated at 50-53 miles (80-85 km) on the WLTP test cycle for the GLE 53 Hybrid 4Matic+ SUV and 51-54 miles (82-87 km) for the more aerodynamically efficient GLE 53 Hybrid 4Matic+ Coupe.

Among the styling changes brought to the new AMG model is a new-look front bumper with altered cooling ducts and new 21-in. wheels. The GLE 53 Hybrid 4Matic also receives new “Hybrid” badges within the front fenders and at the rear.

The brakes have also been upgraded with 15.7-in. discs together with six-piston calipers adopted up front and 14.6-in. discs with single-piston calipers fitted at the rear.

Inside, AMG provides the CUV with hybrid-specific displays and functions. They include a charging menu with graphics on charging status and the temperature of the battery.

Mercedes-AMG GLE interior