The new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+

With the introduction of the GLE 53 4MATIC+, Mercedes-AMG launches its performance offering for the new generation GLE. The trendsetting SUV now comes equipped with an impressive range of updates and features. For increased sportiness, the GLE 53 4MATIC+ is outfitted with a 429 hp 3.0 litre six-cylinder in-line engine, fully variable all-wheel drive, an agile 9-speed automatic transmission, AMG-specific drive programs, and ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL air suspension that is based on AMG RIDE CONTROL+ with electro-mechanical roll stabilization. AMG-specific design cues - such as a radiator grille with 15 vertical stripes – help identify the vehicle as a member of the AMG Family.      

"As the inventors of the performance SUV, it is important for us to continue to be at the top with the new generation of the GLE when it comes to innovations, driving dynamics, individuality and design. The first step here is the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+, which offers our customers more power than the previous model, as well as our fully variable all-wheel technology. Its striking radiator grille identifies the new GLE 53 4MATIC+ as a fully-fledged member of the AMG family," says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Management Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Always staying nicely in-line: six-cylinder engine with twin charging

The centrepiece of the new GLE 53 4MATIC+ is an updated, electrified 3.0 litre engine that features twin-turbochargers and an electric auxiliary compressor. The 6-cylinder in-line engine generates 429 hp and delivers maximum torque of 384 lb-ft. An EQ Boost starter-alternator briefly provides an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque.

The EQ Boost starter-alternator combines a starter motor and alternator in a power electric motor that is fitted between the engine and transmission. This innovation, in combination with an electric auxiliary compressor that intelligently charges the vehicle, and an exhaust gas turbocharger, all contribute to the same goal - to enhance the hallmark AMG driving characteristics while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The GLE 53 4MATIC+ accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds and achieves an electronically limited speed of 250 km/h when equipped with optional summer performance tires (210 km/h when equipped with standard all-season tires).

It really turns on the pressure: electric auxiliary compressor

The electric auxiliary compressor builds up a high level of boost pressure without any delays until the big exhaust gas turbocharger kicks in. As a result, the 3.0-litre engine reacts almost instantaneously and provides a dynamic response with virtually no turbo lag.

It will be electrifying: 48 V on-board electrical system

The EQ Boost starter-alternator provides the 48 V on-board electrical system with electricity. The conventional 12 V electrical system is likewise supplied from the new network by means of a DC/DC converter. The 48 V battery increases the overall battery capacity in the vehicle, and allows for more electrical energy to be supplied. An additional advantage: the same power requires only a quarter of the current of a conventional system. The result is that the wiring can be thinner and therefore lighter, which indirectly contributes to fuel savings. The existing 12 V system supplies power to the lights, cockpit, infotainment displays and control units.

It also does hybrid: EQ Boost starter-alternator

The EQ Boost starter-alternator is a key component of the 48 V system and not only serves as an alternator, but is also responsible for hybrid functions. This allows for fuel savings that were previously reserved for high-voltage hybrid technology. The EQ Boost starter-alternator is also responsible for idle speed control.

In addition to the added boost of 21 hp of output and 184 lb-ft of torque, the hybrid functions include energy recovery, shifting of the load point, gliding mode and the virtually imperceptible restarting of the engine with the start/stop function.

Without the need for a belt-drive dedicated for ancillary components on the front edge of the engine, the length required to install the new six-cylinder engine is significantly reduced. This creates space for a highly efficient exhaust after treatment system mounted closer to the engine.

Speedy shifting: AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G

The GLE 53 4MATIC+ comes equipped with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed automatic transmission that ensures responsive shifting with extremely short shift times. The transmission is optimally tuned to the engine and guarantees AMG's signature off-the-line driving dynamics, regardless of automatic or manual shifting via the steering wheel shift paddles. Upshifts and downshifts are felt instantly, especially in the "Sport+" and manual driving modes. Multiple downshifts enable faster bursts of speed, while the double-clutching function makes shift operations pleasant on the ears.

Unlimited grip: AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive

With AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive, the new GLE 53 4MATIC+ is designed to produce maximum traction and dynamic handling. Intelligent steering variably links the permanently driven rear axle with the front axle and continually calculates the optimum torque distribution. The all-wheel drive thus improves longitudinal dynamics as well as traction and lateral dynamics. This results in significantly more acceleration from a standing position and during short sprints.

Total stabilization: AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension

Redeveloped in Affalterbach, the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension based on AMG RIDE CONTROL+, forms the basis for a driving experience that is characterized by a high-level of agility, neutral cornering behaviour and optimal traction. A new feature makes a significant contribution to the AMG-specific tuning required for high levels of driving dynamics: the active roll stabilization with two electro-mechanic actuators working independently of one another on the front and rear axle.

Not only does this system reduce rolling movements when cornering, it also enables more precise tuning of the cornering and load change properties. Movements in the body can be actively and optimally adjusted to the driving conditions. This further enhances the dynamic driving characteristics AMG vehicles are known for.  

In comparison to the usual hydraulic-based systems, another benefit is the significantly faster response time. The AMG control can adapt to driving situations up to 1000 times per second. The sampling rate is a mere one-thousandth of a second.

Especially long breath: air suspension with continuously adjustable damping

The AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension combines outstanding driving dynamics with high ride comfort via a particularly sporty spring/damper set-up and adaptive adjustable damping ADS+ (Adaptive Damping System). The damping characteristics can be preselected in three modes, "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport+", creating a significantly different feel for long-distance comfort or sporty driving dynamics. In addition, there are two new levels for off-road use - "Trail" and "Sand".

With a pneumatic self-levelling system at the front and rear axle, the GLE 53 4MATIC+ has the ability to maintain a constant ride height regardless of the vehicle load. The vehicle level is generally lowered by 15 mm in the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs "Sport" and "Sport+". In the "Comfort" drive program, the vehicle is lowered by 15 mm from a speed of 120 km/h. This reduces aerodynamic drag and, in turn, fuel consumption. With a lower centre of gravity, handling stability is considerably improved. In order to increase the ground clearance on poor road surfaces and on ramps, the vehicle body level can be raised by up to 55 mm at the touch of a button with the engine running – whether the car is stationary or in motion.

Everything under control: Sports steering and high-performance braking system

The GLE 53 4MATIC+ comes equipped with a speed-sensitive electromechanical power steering that has a variable ratio. Steering power assistance can be adjusted in the two stages of "Comfort" or "Sport". The configuration can be automatically activated based on the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive program.

The large high-performance braking system reliably slows down the performance SUV even with heavier loads and short braking distances. 400 x 36 mm internally ventilated and perforated integral brake disks are used on the front axle as well as 2-piston fixed calipers painted silver with black AMG lettering. On the rear, the internally ventilated integral brake disks measure 345 x 25 mm and have a 1-piston floating caliper.

Select your program: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT

The GLE 53 4MATIC+ has seven drive programs: The levels "Slippery", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport+" and "Individual" are complemented by two off-road-specific settings: "Trail" and "Sand". AMG DYNAMIC SELECT adapts important parameters such as the responsiveness of the engine and transmission, the characteristic curve of the accelerator and steering, the suspension damping and on rare occasions, the vehicle's sound. Drivers select their setting using the paddle in the centre console or the optional AMG steering wheel buttons. The programs are then displayed in the instrument cluster and on the multimedia display.

• "Slippery": optimized for slippery road conditions, with reduced power and a flat torque curve for a driving impression oriented toward stability.
• "Comfort": comfortable and fuel-efficient driving. Suspension and steering are set up for an emphasis on comfort.
• "Sport": sporty characteristics and a more agile response to the driver's accelerator pedal input, shorter shift times, earlier downshifts and significantly more emotive gearshifts owing to double de-clutching. A more dynamic suspension and steering set-up.
• "Sport+": extremely sporty driving characteristics, agile throttle response, increased acoustic emphasis on double de-clutching during downshifts as well as selective torque control on upshifts with cylinder suppression for optimal shift times. Increased idle speed for faster pulling away. An even more dynamic set-up for suspension, steering and drivetrain.
• "Individual": individual adjustment of the drive system, transmission, AMG DYNAMICS, suspension and optional exhaust system.
• "Trail": safe driving at maximum performance on soft, muddy or slippery ground.
• "Sand": sporty set-up for the best possible grip and steering on sandy slopes and in desert dunes.

AMG DYNAMICS vehicle dynamics control is integrated into the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs. In the "Basic", "Advanced" and "Pro" levels, it influences the control strategies of the ESP ^® (Electronic Stability Program) and the all-wheel drive. The intelligent pilot control anticipates the desired vehicle behaviour based on the driver's actions and the sensor data. The spectrum ranges from extremely stable to highly dynamic. Additionally there are the "Traction" and "Slide" levels in the off-road "Trail" and "Sand" drive programs when the ESP^® is deactivated.

Quite the eye-catcher: exterior with AMG-specific radiator grille

Thanks to an AMG-specific radiator grille with 15 vertical chromed strips, it is immediately obvious that the GLE 53 4MATIC+ is part of the AMG family. Equally striking is the star in the double ring, the narrow headlamps, the striking A-Wing in the front apron, and the chrome-coated front splitter. The wheel arches in the same colour as the car provide space for the large wheels – mounted with 21-inch light alloy wheels with AMG lettering.

The horizontal chromed diffuser strip in the pronounced rear apron and the special exhaust system with two chromed twin tailpipes underline the powerful appearance from the rear and emphasize the effect of the width. The optional AMG Night Package further enhances the vehicle. It includes front splitter, trim elements in the front apron and the outer air inlets, mirror covers, window frames, roof railing, diffuser and tailpipe trim in refined black.

The colour of love: interior design with sporty accents

The GLE 53 4MATIC+ is characterized by impressive interior design predicated not only on form, but also on function. The seats come tailored with Nappa Leather as standard. They not only offer optimal support, but also have an AMG-specific design and "AMG" badge in the front seat backrest. The entire instrument panel is surrounded in ARTICO man-made leather. The black roof liner and the trim elements in a metal weave design underscore the sporty appearance.

An array of different colour Nappa leather upholstery options and a wide-range of high-quality trim elements are optionally available, and allow for greater customization of the vehicle. The optional AMG Carbon Fibre trim elements impart a particularly sporty feel to the interior.   
Optionally available is a foldable third row of seats, which makes the
GLE 53 4MATIC+ a seven-seater. As a result of the Easy Entry function of the fully electrically adjustable second seat row, the two rearmost passengers can conveniently reach their seats.

Stylishly chic: AMG-specific displays in the MBUX system

MBUX is included as standard in the GLE 53 4MATIC+ and comes with AMG-specific content. Within the widescreen cockpit, the instrument cluster and touchscreen multimedia display are combined into one unit. Numerous functions can be activated via the intelligent voice-operated control "Hey Mercedes". The optional MBUX Interior Assist also allows intuitive, natural operation of different comfort and MBUX functions by movement recognition and gestures.

The instrument cluster contains specific details such as the AMG start-up menu and the four selectable styles: "Classic", "Sport", AMG exclusive "Supersport" and "Discreet". When the AMG-specific DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs "Trail" and "Sand" are activated, off-road specific settings such as slope, incline and level can be selected and displayed on the instrument cluster. Rocker switches are embedded in the centre console for displaying and controlling the drive programs, transmission, suspension, ESP^® and optional exhaust system.

Hands sitting pretty on the steering wheel: AMG Performance steering wheel
The AMG Performance steering wheel in black Nappa leather with 12-o'clock marking combines maximum functionality with perfect ergonomics. In addition to its aluminum shift paddles, the wheel features touch control buttons that are intuitive to operate. The entire infotainment system can be controlled with swiping finger movements.

Innovative steering wheel buttons are available as an option to enhance the steering wheel with a round controller featuring an integrated display beneath the right-hand steering-wheel spoke - plus two vertically positioned colour display buttons with switches beneath the left-hand steering-wheel spoke.

Drive better: improve your skills with AMG TRACK PACE

With the optional extra AMG TRACK PACE, MBUX is enhanced with a virtual engineer that can record vehicle-specific data and times on closed routes to be analyzed in detail. Many of these values can be displayed on the widescreen cockpit or on the optional head-up display in real-time. After putting in some fast laps, the driver can use the data to analyze and, if necessary, improve their driving skills.

In addition, acceleration and deceleration values (e.g. 0-100 km/h, ¼ mile, 100-0 km/h) can be measured and saved. The driver can record any circuits and open circuits as they wish, and can then save them for later vehicle data recording. Thanks to a newly developed algorithm which determines the vehicle position as precisely as possible, AMG TRACK PACE even detects when the circuit has been left or has been shortened. This is done using GPS data as well as the sensors available in the vehicle (acceleration, gyroscope, steering angle, wheel speeds).

The additional smartphone app enhances AMG TRACK PACE on these circuits with functionalities such as video recording of the journey, individualization options for the recorded videos and photos as well as sharing the experiences on social networks.
Sporty fragrance: Fuel for the senses
As part of the AIR-BALANCE package, there is an exclusive fragrance for the interior, named "AMG#63". It is an inspiring, sporty scent to match the spirit of the performance sports car brand.

Technical Data at a glance

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Mercedes-Benz Canada is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of the Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG passenger vehicles, Mercedes-Benz Vans and smart. Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. employs approximately 1,200 people in 14 locations across Canada. Through a nationwide network of seven Mercedes-Benz own retail operations and 52 authorized dealerships, Mercedes-Benz Canada sold 49,758 vehicles in 2018. This positioned Mercedes-Benz as the top luxury manufacturer in Canada for the fifth consecutive year.

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Sinead Brown               416-847-7588               sinead.brown@mercedes-benz.ca
Lucas Dias                     416-847-7449               lucas.e.dias@mercedes-benz.ca

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