Mercedes-AMG has revealed the new Mercedes AMG GLC 53 globally in both SUV and Coupe body styles. The model marks a significant change for the second-generation (254) GLC line-up, as it becomes the only variant to feature a six-cylinder engine. Until now, the AMG GLC range was limited to four-cylinder powertrains.
The new Mercedes AMG GLC 53 will remain the sole AMG GLC offering worldwide until 2027, after which it is expected to be joined by an all-electric version.
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Six-Cylinder Mild-Hybrid Powertrain
The Mercedes AMG GLC 53 is powered by a revised 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbo-petrol engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system. The engine produces 449hp and 600Nm of torque, with a temporary overboost function raising torque to 640Nm for 10 seconds. The mild-hybrid unit contributes an additional 23hp and 205Nm.
Power is sent to all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system. Mercedes-AMG claims a 0-100kph time of 4.2 seconds, making it 0.6 seconds quicker than the India-spec AMG GLC 43 Coupe.
While the engine layout is similar to the India-spec AMG GLE 53 Coupe, it receives updates including a new cylinder head, revised intake and exhaust ports, a new intake camshaft, and a larger intake system with an upgraded intercooler. The top speed is electronically limited to 250kph and can be increased to 270kph with the optional AMG Driver’s Package.
The shift to a six-cylinder engine comes as Mercedes phases out its 2.0-litre four-cylinder mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid units due to low demand and the upcoming Euro 7 emission regulations.
Chassis and Driving Enhancements
For the first time in an AMG SUV, the Mercedes AMG GLC 53 features a powered rear-axle limited-slip differential with Drift Mode. This is available with the optional AMG Dynamic Plus Package. The SUV also gets rear-axle steering, adaptive dampers, and five drive modes: Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual.
A revised exhaust system with special resonators has also been introduced to enhance the sound profile.
Design and Features
Visually, the Mercedes AMG GLC 53 receives 21-inch forged alloy wheels as standard, larger than the 20-inch rims on the India-spec GLC 43 Coupe. Exterior highlights include dual-pod LED headlamps, vertical-slat AMG grille, wraparound LED tail-lamps, and optional Golden Accents styling elements available for one year.
Inside, the layout mirrors the current India-spec GLC, featuring a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display and an 11.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Equipment includes a 15-speaker Burmester 3D sound system, panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, powered front seats with memory, dual-zone climate control, and a powered tailgate. Safety features include ADAS, a 360-degree camera with transparent bonnet view, TPMS, and disc brakes on all wheels.
India Outlook
In India, the new Mercedes AMG GLC 53 is expected to be priced above the AMG GLC 43 Coupe, which currently retails at Rs 99.85 lakh (ex-showroom). With the 43 and 63 trims being replaced globally, the GLC 53 represents Mercedes-AMG’s new performance strategy, moving away from plug-in hybrids towards a six-cylinder mild-hybrid configuration.
An official India launch timeline has not yet been announced.
Disclaimer: Specifications, features and pricing mentioned are based on global specifications. India-specific details may vary at the time of launch and will be confirmed by Mercedes-Benz India.
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Raj Prajapati is a senior automobile content writer at How2Guidess.in with over 3 years of experience in auto news, vehicle launches, comparisons, and EV updates. With a background in Computer Science & Engineering, he focuses on research-based, clear, and reader-friendly automobile content.