The New Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 4MATIC+: High-Revving Six-Cylinder Delivering Greater Driving Dynamics and Emotion

Sporty driving dynamics, an emotional six-cylinder soundtrack and fully variable all-wheel drive with an available Drift Mode¹: The new Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 4MATIC+ offers highly dynamic AMG driving experience. Available in both SUV and Coupe body styles, the 2027 AMG GLC 53 arrives at U.S. dealerships in the second half of 2026.

At the heart of the new model is the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with twin charging via an exhaust gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor. The engine produces 443 hp and delivers a maximum torque of a hefty 443 lb-ft (472 lb-ft for 10 seconds at 5,200 rpm with overboost). The high-performance six-cylinder unit has been comprehensively redeveloped and impresses with an even more agile response and a strong appetite for revs.

“With the new GLC 53, our goal was to make its Affalterbach DNA even more tangible – with more emotion, more character, and even more fun to drive. To achieve this, we have significantly upgraded our six-cylinder engine. Together with the sophisticated chassis and the fully variable all-wheel drive, it makes the GLC 53 a highly dynamic vehicle with exceptional versatility.” – Michael Schiebe, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG,
Production, Quality & Supply Chain Management, and Chairman of the Management Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH

The revised six-cylinder engine is complemented by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT® TCT 9G transmission and the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. Additionally, it features an optional electronically controlled rear-axle limited-slip differential and Drift Mode¹, available for the first time in an AMG SUV. This enables experienced drivers to explore the full range of driving dynamics on closed courses.

AMG-enhanced 3.0L inline six-cylinder with new cylinder head and new intake system

The new GLC 53 4MATIC+ is powered by a new further developed AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbo engine. Engine upgrades include a new cylinder head with improved intake and exhaust ports and a new intake camshaft. Additionally, there is a larger volume new intake system and a new intercooler. These extensive modifications result in improved torque delivery and throttle response. Powerful acceleration across the entire rpm range provides an even more agile and sporty dynamic driving experience.

21.8 psi (1.5 bar) of boost pressure from the optimized exhaust gas turbocharger enables ample torque with strong high-revving performance. The electric auxiliary compressor can now operate almost continuously for a longer period of time. It now provides up to 10 hp of electric boost (previously 7 hp), further improving throttle response. Furthermore, the overall power curve is adapted to a higher engine speed range. As a result, the powertrain produces 443 lb-ft of torque, as well as 472 lb-ft at 5,200 rpm for up to ten seconds with overboost.

The second-generation integrated starter-generator (ISG) is integrated into the transmission bell housing. As a central component of the 48-volt on-board electrical system, it functions as an electric generator and also takes on hybrid functions. These include support at lower engines speeds with 23 hp and 151 lb-ft, recuperation, load point shifting, gliding and seamless operation of the start-stop function.

Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes just 4.1 seconds (with RACE START from the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package). The 155-mph electronically limited top speed can be increased to 167 mph with the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package.

A new exhaust system with special resonators further enhances the powerful sound of the engine. The characteristic crackling on throttle lift-off and the deep exhaust note during dynamic acceleration create a particularly emotional experience. The intensity depends on the selected drive program. Optional AMG Real Performance Sound with a selectable exhaust system is also available.

Optimized shift times, high efficiency: AMG SPEEDSHIFT® TCT 9G transmission

The 3.0-liter inline-six engine is coupled with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT® TCT 9G transmission, which impresses with short shift times, quick response, double-declutching function and multiple downshifts. An upshift or downshift is implemented immediately. The transmission is especially responsive in the “Sport+” drive program and in manual mode. Drivers can manually control gear changes via the AMG Performance steering wheel shift paddles. The transmission calibration can be tailored to a variety of driving situations, from highly dynamic to efficient, depending on the selected drive program.

Character at the touch of a button: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT

Five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs, included standard, “Slippery,” “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport+,” and “Individual” enable a broad range driving characteristics at the touch of a button. Additionally, the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package adds the “RACE” drive program. Important parameters such as the response of the engine, transmission, chassis, and steering are modified. Regardless of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving programs, the driver can switch directly to manual mode via the “M” button to shift exclusively via the steering wheel shift paddles. The chassis levels can also be selected separately if required.

Integrated into the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving programs is the AMG DYNAMICS driving dynamics control system. In the “Basic”, “Advanced”, and “Pro” settings, it influences, for example, the control strategies of the ESP® (Electronic Stability Program) or the all-wheel drive. Based on driver inputs and sensor data, the intelligent pre-control system anticipates the desired vehicle behavior. The range extends from stable to highly dynamic, enabling either a more comfort-focused or particularly sporty driving experience. AMG DYNAMICS functions can also be selected directly via the AMG steering wheel buttons. Both the modifiable vehicle characteristics and the extensive equipment options allow a wide range between sportiness and comfort, depending on individual customer wishes.

AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive

AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive, equipped standard on the GLC 53, combines optimal traction for dynamic driving with a high level of driving safety under all conditions. Intelligent control of the drive system is integrated into the entire vehicle system architecture, which enables the transition between rear-wheel to all-wheel drive to occur continuously. The new model provides enhanced towing capability for the U.S. market and is compatible with a Class II hitch².

Torque distribution is based on the driving situation. When all-wheel drive is not required, the front axle is completely decoupled to increase efficiency. From the ESP® “Sport” setting onwards, torque distribution is more rear-biased. In Drift Mode, which is available with the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package, the new GLC 53 operates exclusively in rear-wheel-drive.

The AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package also includes an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential – available for the first time on AMG GLC. It contributes to the dynamic driving experience with outstanding traction and also improves handling stability, especially at highway speeds. The differential operates with a fully variable locking effect in traction and overrun modes. It is tuned to all road surfaces and continuously communicates with the other control units relevant for driving dynamics. There is also a specially adapted control for Drift Mode.

AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension and AMG high-performance braking system

Developed in Affalterbach, standard AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension provides agile handling, neutral cornering behavior and a high level of traction. The newly tuned steel coil spring suspension features a tailored spring-damper setup and adaptive adjustable damping for an even greater spread between dynamic and comfort. The damping quickly and precisely adapts to the current driving situation and road conditions at each wheel via separate valves for the rebound and compression stages in each damper. The driver can also select three different damper maps, “Comfort,” “Sport,” and “Sport+,” each with a noticeable differentiation between comfort and sporty driving dynamics.

The AMG high-performance braking system is matched to the power and performance of the new GLC 53. 15.4 x 1.4-inch internally ventilated discs with AMG four-piston fixed calipers are fitted on the front axle, and 14.2 x 1-inch internally ventilated discs with single-piston floating calipers are fitted on the rear axle.

Three-stage AMG parameter steering and standard rear-axle steering

The steering layout also contributes to enhanced dynamics and comfort. The new GLC 53 features a three-stage AMG parameter steering that adapts to the selected drive program. When maneuvering or parking at low speeds, low steering effort is required. At higher speeds, the driver experiences even more feedback with decreased power assistance, especially in the “Sport” and “Sport+,” via the adapted power steering characteristic curve.

The standard rear-axle steering operates with a maximum steering angle of 2.5 degrees. At speeds up to 60 mph (variable depending on the AMG DYNAMICS setting), the rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the front wheels. This leads to significantly more agile turn-in, less steering effort and better handling. For example, the turning circle is noticeably reduced when turning or parking. At speeds above 60 mph (variable depending on the AMG DYNAMICS setting), the rear wheels steer parallel to the front wheels – up to a maximum of 0.7 degrees. This has a positive effect on directional stability. It builds up lateral force more quickly during direction changes, enabling the vehicle to respond more directly to steering commands.

AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package

For an even sportier driving experience, the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package features additional equipment for dynamic driving including, an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential and the “RACE” drive program with Drift Mode³. Active engine mounts provide an optimized connection of the engine to the vehicle based on the driving situation and selected drive program. The AMG Performance steering wheel in microfiber features AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons for quick operation of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs and other dynamic functions. Red AMG brake calipers on the front and rear axles visually underscore the sporty character of the GLC 53.

Golden Accents Package with unique techgold design elements

An exclusive Golden Accents Package will be available only for model year 2027. With this special optional package, Obsidian Black Metallic or Graphite Grey Magno exterior paints are contrasted with striking details finished in techgold including subtle AMG graphics adorning the vehicle’s profile. Extensive equipment further emphasizes the special package.

21-inch AMG Forged Cross-Spoke wheels in matte black are accented with techgold rim flanges and center cap details. This is complimented by black brake calipers with white AMG branding. Another elegant detail is the AMG fuel filler cap in silver chrome with AMG brand and design elements in black.

With the AMG Night Package, exterior elements such as mirror housings and trim are finished in high-gloss black. Together with the dark chrome tailpipe trims and door handles, this creates flowing transitions. The AMG Night Package Plus introduces further exterior elements such as the struts of the radiator grille, AMG emblem on the hood and model badging at the rear of the vehicle finished in black chrome.

Further design elements include:

• Front fascia with larger front splitter and additional flics in high-gloss black
• Larger AMG spoiler lip on the roof spoiler (SUV) or the trunk (Coupe) finished in body color
• Side airflow breakaway edges around the optical air outlets of the rear fascia in high-gloss black
• Diffuser blade in high-gloss black

Curated design elements are also highlighted throughout the interior of the GLC 53 with the Golden Accents Package. AMG sports seats are presented in elegant black leather, stylishly accented by seat bolsters and contrast stitching color-matched to the exterior accents. The door panels and dashboard also feature contrast stitching in the same color. Another elegant detail is AMG carbon fiber trim woven with Techgold metallic threads. The attention to detail is also evident in the AMG door sill panels, which feature an AMG pattern design in black and illuminate the AMG logo in white. Further color accents are also highlighted on the AMG floor mats with contrast stitching.

Notes:

1. Feature available only as part of the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package.
2. Exact U.S. tow ratings will be communicated when confirmed.
3. Feature available only as part of the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package.
4. RACE START is available with the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package