Mercedes-AMG has debuted the new Mercedes-AMG GLC53. This SUV marks a return to form for the brand by swapping the controversial inline-four for a new 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged straight-six engine, producing 449 hp and 600 Nm as standard, but can be momentarily increased to 640 Nm for 10 seconds via an overboost function. However, the main highlight for this spicy family SUV is the inclusion of a drift mode.
For the first time in an AMG SUV, Affalterbach is allowing you and your family to go sideways in a controlled manner. This feature is enabled by an electronically controlled rear-axle limited-slip differential and is available with the optional AMG Dynamic Plus package. This setup tweaks the all-wheel drive system to be rear-wheel biased across the entire speed range.
The 449 hp and 640 Nm outputs are managed by a nine-speed automatic gearbox. This is supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that adds a further 23 hp and 205 Nm of boost at low speeds. This combination propels the Mercedes-AMG GLC53 from 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 250 km/h. If that is not quite enough, the top speed can be increased to 270 km/h with the optional AMG Driver’s Package.
Thanks to the new exhaust system with special resonators, you can now enjoy more of the pops and bangs typical of AMG cars during acceleration. The loudness can be adjusted based on the drive mode, depending on whether you want a serene drive with your family or to go full hooligan.
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Aside from Drift mode, the new GLC53 offers other drive modes, including Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual. The AMG Dynamic Plus package also unlocks an exclusive Race mode. For drivers who prefer to take matters into their own hands, manual shifting is available via the “M” button on the steering wheel.
Keeping the GLC53 under control is the AMG Ride Control suspension. It features dampers that adjust according to the selected drive modes. To slow down, the GLC53 is equipped with AMG high-performance brakes featuring four-piston fixed callipers on the front and single-piston floating callipers on the rear.
To make life easier in tight streets and car parks, the new Mercedes-AMG GLC53 is equipped with rear-wheel steering as standard. This allows the rear wheels to turn a maximum steering angle of 2.5 degrees. At speeds above 100 km/h, the rear wheels steer parallel to the front wheels up to a maximum of 0.7 degrees to improve stability and steering response.
To celebrate the launch, a “Golden Accents” package is available for the first year. This edition features Obsidian Black or Graphite Grey paint with matte black 21-inch AMG forged wheels. These wheels are accented with techgold rim flanges and wheel hub caps, housing glossy black brake callipers with white AMG logos. Further details include a silver chrome fuel filler cap with AMG lettering.
Additional customisation is available through the AMG Night Package and Night Package II. These options finish the mirror housings, trim strips, and door handles in high-gloss black, while the tailpipe trims, radiator grille struts, and badges are finished in black chrome.
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