To coincide with the unveiling of the latest 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, the German automaker has also revealed the high-performance AMG GLE 53 Hybrid model. Now with levels of power that are surprisingly close to the outgoing GLE 63 V8, the new GLE 53 Hybrid features a more aggressive design, a newly tuned suspension, and a revamped cabin with a trio of screens. Available in both SUV and Coupe-SUV body styles, the new GLE 53 is a potent midsize SUV that has been improved in almost every measurable way.
A Confident New Look
2027 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Mercedes-AMG
The 2027 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 features a more assertive appearance than before. The headlights, grille, and taillights have all been tweaked, and the new AMG-specific grille is larger than before. At the back, the GLE 53 badging has red accents, the Mercedes star motif has found its way into the new taillights, and there are four rounded tailpipes lower down.
2027 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Mercedes-AMG
Inside, there’s a completely new look, too. The older model’s large air vents have been downsized for a sleeker appearance, and to make room for the trio of screens that form part of the MBUX Superscreen. A range of leather finishes are available, including Manufaktur Nappa leather in Truffle Brown, Carmine Red, and Yacht Blue. On the new AMG Performance steering wheel, there are new roller and rocker controls, providing a more tactile feel.
The latest MB.OS operating system’s high-resolution displays have AMG-specific graphics in the GLE 53, giving the cabin a sportier look than the non-AMG GLEs. Whether the screen-heavy environment is to your taste or not, the GLE 53’s interior definitely has a sense of occasion missing in most rivals.
Performance: From Mild Hybrid to Powerful PHEV
Mercedes-AMG
The outgoing GLE 53 mild hybrid is no slouch—it makes 429 horsepower and can reach 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. But Mercedes-AMG has made a raft of improvements that puts clear daylight between the 2026 and 2027 models. In the new one, the 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with an exhaust gas turbocharger introduces the following improvements:
- New cylinder head
- Improved intake and exhaust ports
- New intake camshaft
- Higher-revving capability and extended torque curve
Aided by a 181-hp electric motor, the new GLE 53 is now a proper plug-in hybrid and produces 577 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque combined; that’s very close to the outgoing GLE 63’s 603 hp. The 0-60 sprint is down to just 4.4 seconds—half a second quicker than before—yet it can also be driven on electric power alone at speeds of up to 87 mph. A 60-kW DC fast charger is standard, which can replenish the battery from 10 to 80% in roughly 20 minutes. AC charging is also possible via a 9.6-kW onboard charger. The BMW X5 M60i remains quicker (0-60 in 4.2 seconds), but it’s a non-hybrid V8 so will be thirstier.
4Matic all-wheel drive and a nine-speed AMG Speedshift automatic transmission are standard.
New Suspension and Drive Programs
Mercedes-AMG
The character of the new AMG GLE 53 is further enhanced by way of a new AMG Ride Control+ air suspension with adaptive damping adjustment. The system can adapt continuously to changing driving situations and the selected drive program, prioritizing either comfort or agility. There’s a new ESP system, while the 4Matic+ variable AWD system optimizes traction as conditions change.
The following drive programs are available to customize the driving experience: Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Trail, and Individual. These can be selected using the AMG Dynamic Select controller, altering aspects like steering characteristics, the suspension damping, and responsiveness from the engine/transmission. There’s also an Electric drive program, while a Battery Hold mode is designed to maintain the battery’s state of charge.
Mercedes-AMG
“We have consistently further developed our GLE 53 six-cylinder models: more power, more visual presence, more digital services – and above all, a typical AMG driving experience,” said Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “The long range plug-in hybrid leaves nothing to be desired.”
Mercedes has made no all-electric range claims for the GLE 53, but this—along with pricing—should be revealed closer to the models’ arrival in the U.S. in the second half of 2026. Given all the improvements and the $90,000 MSRP of the 2026 model, this will likely be a six-figure SUV.
Final Thoughts
Mercedes-AMG
Mercedes-AMG has significantly enhanced its ‘53’-badged models in recent times. These AMGs were a clear tier below the 63 models when they first started arriving in 2018, but the new plug-in hybrid powertrains have elevated them to V8 levels of performance. They also open the door for AMG to go all-out with the V8-powered 63 models, which are expected to follow the 53 variants at some stage.
The only question now is whether the GLE 53 is as good to drive as its predecessor now that it has transitioned to a plug-in hybrid, as this change will undoubtedly have made it heavier. We’ll have to wait for later in the year to drive one before we can answer that definitively.
Related: Mercedes-AMG Unleashes Special Edition Flagship SUV Limited to 450 Examples
