Teched-out 2020 AMG GLE 53 to Debut at Geneva Auto Show
Six-cylinder inline AMG generates 429 HP and of 384 lb-ft of torque, with an additional 21 HP boost thanks to advanced electrical systems.
Mercedes-AMG launches its performance offering for the new GLE generation with the GLE 53. The basis for the signature AMG driving dynamics is provided by the 429-horsepower, 3.0-liter six-cylinder inline-six engine, the fully variable all-wheel drive, the agile nine-speed automatic transmission, the AMG-specific drive programs and the “AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL” based on “AIRMATIC” with electro-mechanical roll stabilization. Thanks to the AMG-specific radiator grille with 15 vertical strips, it is immediately obvious that it is part of the AMG family. Many options, such as the selectable performance exhaust system and the AMG steering wheel buttons, make the driving experience even more dynamic.
“As the inventors of the performance SUV, it is important to us to continue to be at the top with the new generation of the GLE when it comes to innovations, driving dynamics, individuality and design,” said Tobias Moers, Chief Executive of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “The first step here is the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53, with which we offer our customers more power than the predecessor model as well as our fully variable all-wheel technology. Not least of all its striking radiator grill shows our new GLE 53 as a fully-fledged member of the AMG family.”
Turbocharged Inline-six
Its centerpiece is the electrified 3.0-liter engine featuring turbocharging and an electric auxiliary compressor. The six-cylinder inline engine generates 429 HP and delivers maximum torque of 384 lb-ft. Its EQ Boost starter generator briefly provides an additional 21 HP of output plus 184 lb-ft of torque and additionally feeds the 48-volt onboard electrical system.
The EQ Boost starter-generator combines a starter and generator in a powerful electric motor and is fitted between the engine and transmission. This innovation as well as the intelligent charging via an electric auxiliary compressor and an exhaust gas turbocharger all have the same goal: to enhance the hallmark AMG performance and driving dynamics, but also to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. This move has been a successful one: The GLE 53 accelerates from zero to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds.
Electric Auxiliary Compressor
The electric auxiliary compressor builds up a high level of boost pressure without any delays until the big exhaust gas turbocharger kicks in. As a result, the 3.0-liter engine reacts quickly and provides a dynamic response without turbo lag. An additional bonus is the high level of refinement of the six-cylinder inline engine.
Onboard Electrical System
The EQ Boost starter-generator can do even more. It also provides the 48-volt onboard electrical system with electricity. The conventional 12-volt electrical system is also supplied from the new network by means of a DC/DC converter. The 48-volt battery increases the overall battery capacity in the vehicle, which supplies more electrical energy. An additional advantage: the same power requires only a quarter of the current when compared to a conventional system. The result is that the wiring can be thinner and therefore lighter, which indirectly contributes to efficiency. The existing 12-volt system supplies power to consumers such as lights, cockpit, infotainment displays and control units.
EQ Boost Starter-generator
The EQ Boost starter generator is a key component of the 48-volt system and not only serves as a generator, but is also responsible for hybrid functions. This allows fuel savings that were previously reserved for high-voltage hybrid technology. For the first time, the EQ Boost starter-generator is also responsible for idle speed control.
The hybrid functions include boost with up to an additional 21 HP of output and 184 lb-ft of torque, energy recovery, shifting of the load point, gliding mode and the virtually imperceptible restarting of the engine with the start/stop function.
Because the belt for ancillary components on the front edge of the engine is omitted, the installation length of the new six-cylinder engine is also significantly reduced when compared with conventional six-cylinder engines. This creates space for an exhaust gas aftertreatment system mounted near the engine, which is particularly efficient. The particulate filter is the only part of the emission control system that is under the floor.
A special acoustic experience comes courtesy of the optional, selectable AMG Performance exhaust system. The variable adjustable exhaust flaps provide the option to change the sound of the vehicle at the touch of a button. Depending on the drive program, the sound characteristics change from unobtrusive comfort to maximum dynamic appeal.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT nine-speed automatic transmission ensures dynamic gear shifting with extremely short shift times. It is optimally tuned to the engine and promises agile acceleration typical of AMG as well as speedy shifting, regardless of automatic or manual shift modes, controlled via the steering wheel shift paddles. Upshifts and downshifts are implemented instantly. Especially in the “Sport+” and in manual driving modes, the transmission is very responsive. Multiple downshifts enable quick bursts of speed and make shift operations acoustically more dynamic.
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ All-wheel-drive
The new GLE 53 is equipped for maximum traction and dynamics with AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive. The intelligent steering variably links the permanently driven rear axle with the front axle and continually calculates the optimum torque distribution, depending on the driving situation and the driver’s wishes. The all-wheel drive thus improves longitudinal dynamics as well as traction and lateral dynamics. The outcome: more powerful acceleration from a standing position and for short sprints.