Goodbye four cylinders! The 2027 MERCEDES-AMG GLC53 brings back the roar of the inline-six engine with 443 hp. Check out the technical specs and performance.
Mechanical Revolution: The New M256 Engine and Its Power Gains
The major highlight of the 2027 MERCEDES-AMG GLC53 is the adoption of the 3.0-liter M256 engine, a turbocharged inline-six with an additional electric compressor. This dual forced induction setup eliminates characteristic turbo lag, delivering instant torque from low RPMs. With 443 hp of maximum power and 443 lb-ft of base torque (which jumps to 472 lb-ft in overboost mode for 10 seconds), the model surpasses the GLC43 in all key indicators.
Compared to the previous four-cylinder engine with 416 hp and 369 lb-ft, the improvements are palpable: a newly redesigned cylinder head, optimized intake camshaft, enlarged exhaust and intake ports, a larger volume intake system, and a more efficient intercooler. All this results in an acceleration of 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds, 0.6 seconds faster than the previous model, and a top speed of 167 mph with the AMG Dynamic Plus package.
| Attribute | 2027 GLC53 | Previous GLC43 |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | 443 hp | 416 hp |
| Base Torque | 443 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 4.1 s | 4.7 s |
| Top Speed | 167 mph | 162 mph |
This transition reflects an AMG strategy to reclaim the “emotional” character of six-cylinder engines, shared with models like the CLE53, but specifically tuned for the GLC chassis. For those looking for SUVs with over 400 hp like the Ford Explorer Tremor, the GLC53 emerges as a premium German option.
Innovations in Transmission and Drivetrain Systems
The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission has been refined for faster shifts, integrating with the fully variable 4Matic+ system. This intelligent all-wheel drive decouples the front axle under efficiency conditions, prioritizing the rear in sport modes—up to 100% of power can be sent rearward. It’s an evolution that improves both fuel economy and agility on the track.
Driving Dynamics: Drift Mode and Exclusive Technologies
AMG didn’t stop at the engine: the GLC53 introduces the Drift Mode for the first time in an SUV, activated via the Dynamic Plus package, allowing controlled slides with rear differential lock and relaxed stabilization. There are five standard driving modes (Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual), expanding to Race and Drift with the optional package.
- Rear-axle steering: 2.5 degrees standard, reducing the turning circle by 12 cm for precise urban maneuvers.
- AMG Ride Control adaptive dampers: Real-time adjustment for maximum comfort or stiffness.
- AMG Real Performance Sound: Exhaust sound customization, simulating authentic naturally aspirated engine notes.
These features transform the GLC53 into a versatile performance crossover, capable of tackling corners like a sports sedan while maintaining SUV practicality. Available in both standard and Coupé body styles, it directly competes with rivals like the Brabus 900 Lamborghini Urus SE, but with a focus on daily usability.
For enthusiasts of advanced all-wheel drive, it’s worth seeing how the 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness uses adaptive suspension in off-road settings, contrasting with the GLC53’s on-road focus.
Sophisticated Design, Golden Accents Package, and Market Position
The visual design of the 2027 GLC53 refines the AMG identity with a larger Panamericana grille, enlarged front splitter, gloss black side air vents, and a larger rear spoiler on both body styles. The interior maintains Mercedes luxury, with optional Hyperscreen displays and premium materials.
The Golden Accents package is the touch of exclusivity: exclusive to Obsidian Black Metallic or Graphite Grey Magno, it includes 21-inch forged wheels with Techgold graphics, black brake calipers with a white AMG logo, and an interior with gold stitching, gold seat supports, and carbon fiber woven with gold threads. It’s an edition that attracts collectors, similar to the luxury seen in the 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S680 Guard.
“The GLC53 fills the perfect gap between accessible performance and top-of-the-line, with the M256 engine paving the way for the future C53.”
In market positioning, the GLC53 acts as an intermediary: more powerful than the GLC43 but below the GLC63 (which might get a V8 in the future). Launch is expected in the second half of 2024, with estimated prices of US$ 75,000 for the SUV and US$ 81,000 for the Coupé. In Brazil, expect prices above R$ 1.2 million, depending on taxes and options.
This AMG strategy responds to the demand for SUVs that combine mechanical emotion with modern technologies, in a segment where powerful hybrids like the Zekr 8X and electric vehicles like Audi e-tron challenge combustion models. The GLC53 proves that six cylinders still have room to shine, offering the ideal balance between track, highway, and city driving. If you prioritize genuine sound and linear torque, this is the AMG for 2027.
微信分享
打开微信，扫描下方二维码。
