- New Mercedes‑AMG GLC 53
- Mild-hybrid-assisted 3.0 litre inline-six petrol engine
- Return to six-cylinder power for Merc-AMG
- Power of 449 hp and 600 Nm torque
- Drift Mode is a first for an AMG SUV
- New exhaust promises ‘goosebumps’
Mercedes‑AMG has revealed the new GLC 53 - and with a straight-six engine and dedicated Drift Mode, it promises raucous track day thrills.
We have, of course, seen hot AMG versions of the GLC before.
We had the GLC 43 (which most recently used a 2.0-litre four cylinder engine) and the GLC 63 S E Performance (a controversial plug-in hybrid which admittedly had absolutely bags of power).
The new GLC 53 now steps into the Mercedes-AMG line-up to replace the 43 and 63, with exact pricing and UK spec still to be announced.
But what we do know is that it looks to be a proper driver’s car and one you’d happily rag around a race circuit.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Does the new Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 have an inline six engine?
Yes, it sure does, and it’s supplemented by mild hybrid wizardry.
The GLC 53 is underpinned by a 3.0-litre straight six with twin charging via an exhaust gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor.
You can expect power of 449, 600 Nm of torque, and an engine with a ‘strong appetite for revs’, Merc-AMG tells us.
With overboost activated (under hard acceleration in certain driver modes) the torque jumps to 640 Nm for 10 seconds at 5,200 rpm, providing even more oomph.
All-wheel drive is a given and the power is mated to an AMG ‘Speedshift’ 9-speed Torque Clutch Transmission.
Most exciting of all, though, is the rear-axle limited-slip differential with Drift Mode - available for the first time in an AMG SUV.
A company spokesperson says: “This enables experienced drivers to explore the full range of driving dynamics on closed-off tracks.”
How fast is the Mercedes-Benz GLC 53?
The Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 is capable of accelerating from 0-62mph in 4.2 seconds and has an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph (it goes up to 168 mph with the optional AMG Driver's Package).
How does that stack up against rivals?
The two big competitors are the Audi SQ5 Sportback and the BMW X3 M50.
The Audi SQ5 has less power at 362 hp and can launch from 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds.
The BMW X3 M50 also has less power, with 398 hp, and can accelerate to 62 mph in 4.6 seconds.
So, the GLC 53 certainly has the edge when it comes to outright pace.
You might want to look at the Porsche Macan GTS, which boasts 434 hp (very similar to the Merc) and which can hurtle up to 62mph in a cool 4.3 seconds.
A new exhaust system also promises to be a riot.
A Merc-AMG spokesperson reveals: “It features special resonators that further amplify the sound experience. The characteristic crackling on throttle lift-off creates goosebump moments, as do AMG typical misfires and the bassy sound during strong acceleration.”
Does the new Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 have rear-axle steering?
It does - rear-axle steering (the rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the front wheels) comes as standard with the new Mercedes-AMG GLC 53.
It makes low-speed manoeuvring and parking a doddle while you get much more driver feedback at higher speeds, especially in the “Sport” and “Sport+” chassis settings.
What’s the styling like for the Mercedes-AMG GLC 53?
It’s pretty much ‘as you were’ for the design of the GLC 53 compared to previous AMG products.
The sloping, coupe-like roofline still catches the eye while you can also get various style packages - like the ‘Golden Accents’ option, which does exactly what it says on the tin, and the ‘AMG Night Package’, which unlocks goodies like dark chrome tailpipes and a black chrome AMG badge on the bonnet.
How much does the Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 cost?
UK pricing and specs are still to be confirmed but you’ll be looking to shell-out somewhere between £80,000 and £100,000.
Can you lease the Mercedes-AMG GLC 53?
As it stands right now, you can’t lease a Mercedes product via personal contract hire leasing with Select Car Leasing.
For now, you’ll need to have a look at the key rivals instead - Audi SQ5, BMW X3 M50, and the Porsche Macan GTS.
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