2024 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Hybrid revealed

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 performance SUV has been bolstered by a new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system, with the new powertrain producing 400kW and a muscular 750Nm of torque.

Not yet confirmed for Australia, the GLE 53 Hybrid’s outputs are well up from the regular GLE 53’s 320kW/560Nm, thanks to an extra 10kW extracted from the 3.0-litre turbo-petrol straight-six engine and, most importantly, a newly added 100kW/480Nm electric motor.

The latter draws current from a 31.2kWh battery pack stashed under the floor.

The extra hardware adds weight, but it’s easily offset by the mountain of extra power and torque provided across the rev range, so much so that 0.3sec has been shaved off the 0-100km/h time.

AMG says the new GLE 53 Hybrid will stop the clock in 4.7sec and push on to an electronically governed top speed of 250km/h.

Combined-cycle fuel consumption is listed at 1.5L/100km (WLTP), which is wholly unrealistic in real-world conditions, but set off with a full battery and you should be able to cover up to 86km on electric power alone and reach 140km/h in the process.

All this extra performance and newfound frugalness is hinted at by hybrid-specific aero tweaks and the obligatory fender and tailgate hybrid badging.

Hauling the GLE 63 Hybrid back up again is an AMG high-performance braking system – comprising six-piston front callipers clamping 400x38mm rotors and single-piston rears acting on 370x32mm discs – which can be seen through the standard 21-inch alloy wheels.

Little has changed inside the cabin beyond hybrid-specific displays and functions for the MBUX infotainment system and digital cockpit, with the rest of the kit familiar AMG sports-luxury goodies.

Mercedes-Benz has been streamlining its range of optional extras recently and including the most commonly specified features as standard equipment – for a price – which in this instance sees the addition of a switchable AMG performance exhaust, Burmester sound system, position memory package, 360-degree parking pilot, keyless go package and blind spot assist to the standard kit list.

The new features join existing GLE 53 highlights like an electric panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, adaptive high beam assist, AMG performance steering wheel, adaptive AMG Ride Control air suspension and adaptive dampers (specially tuned for the hybrid), AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system and smartphone integration.

The GLE 53 Hybrid will be available in traditional wagon and GLE Coupe body styles.

Mercedes-Benz Australia declined to comment on the new model, but said more details of the updated GLE line-up would be communicated late next month.

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