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

• Further developed AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with even more agile response and high-revving character
• Powerful exhaust note and overboost torque heighten the dynamic driving experience
• AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive with optional electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential
• Special Golden Accents Package with exclusive features, limited to model year 2027

Affalterbach. 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 offers a 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 GLC 53 is the AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with twin charging via an exhaust gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor. The powerful unit produces 443 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque (472 lb-ft for 10 seconds with overboost). The high-performance engine has been comprehensively redeveloped and impresses with an even more agile response and higher revving capability.

"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 AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive. Additionally, the drivetrain features an optional electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential and Drift Mode1, available for the first time on 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 AMG GLC 53 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, new intake camshaft, new larger volume intake system and 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 robust 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 for up to 10 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 mild-hybrid functions. These include support at lower engine speeds with 23 hp and 151 lb-ft, recuperation, load point shifting and seamless operation of the start-stop function.

Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes just 4.0 seconds with RACE START. The 155-mph electronically limited top speed increases to 167 mph with the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package.

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

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, manual mode and the available "RACE" drive program¹. 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.

AMG DYNAMIC SELECT with integrated AMG DYNAMICS

Five standard AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs, "Slippery," "Comfort," "Sport," "Sport+" and "Individual," enable a broad range of driving characteristics at the touch of a button. Additionally, the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package introduces the "RACE" drive program. Key parameters such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering are tailored to each drive program.

The standard AMG Performance steering wheel with AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons enables quick operation of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs and other dynamic functions. Regardless of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive program, the driver can switch directly to manual mode and shift exclusively via the steering wheel shift paddles.

The AMG DYNAMICS driving dynamics control system is integrated into the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs. In the "Basic," "Advanced" and "Pro" settings, as well as on the "Master" level in the optional "RACE" drive program¹, it influences, for example, the control strategies of the ESP® (Electronic Stability Program) or the all-wheel drive system. The intelligent pre-control system anticipates the desired vehicle behavior based on driver inputs and sensor data. 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 DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons.

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.

Torque distribution is based on the driving situation, which increases 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 features an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential. It delivers 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 for 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 sport 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 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 dynamic.

The high-performance AMG sport 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 parking or maneuvering at low speeds, low steering effort is required. At higher speeds, the driver experiences 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

The optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package features additional equipment to elevate the dynamic performance of the AMG GLC 53, including an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential, "RACE" drive program and Drift Mode. Active engine mounts provide an optimized connection of the engine to the body based on the driving situation and selected drive program. Red AMG brake calipers on the front and rear axle visually underscore the sporty character of the vehicle.

Golden Accents Package with unique Techgold design elements

The new Golden Accents Package is available exclusively for model year 2027. With this specially curated optional package, Obsidian Black Metallic or Graphite Grey Magno exterior paints are contrasted with exclusive details finished in Techgold and subtle AMG graphics adorning the vehicle's profile. 21-inch AMG Forged Cross-Spoke wheels in matte black are accented with Techgold rim flanges and center cap details. This is complemented by black brake calipers with white AMG branding. Another elegant detail is the AMG fuel filler cap in silver chrome with AMG branding 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, also included with the Golden Accents Package, introduces additional exterior elements finished in dark chrome, including the struts of the radiator grille, AMG crest on the hood and model badging at the rear of the vehicle.

The Golden Accents Package incorporates striking elements of the AMG Performance Studio Package to further sharpen the look of the GLC 53. These 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

Exclusive design touches of the Golden Accents Package are also highlighted throughout the interior of the GLC 53. AMG sports seats are presented in elegant black leather, stylishly accented by contrasting seat bolsters and special contrast stitching, which also extends to the door panels, dashboard and AMG floor mats. Another stunning detail is the unique AMG carbon fiber trim woven with Techgold metallic threads. Black AMG door sill panels with illuminated AMG logo in white further exemplify the attention to detail.

Technical Data at a Glance

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1. Feature available only as part of the optional AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package.