Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 brings six-cylinder power and sound
Words: Kyle Cassidy
Mercedes-AMG is done with its failed plug-in hybrid experiment, releasing a new GLC 53 to satisfy people’s need for speed. It replaces both the GLC 43 and 63, which have been discontinued.
So gone is the four pot, replaced with a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder complete with ‘twin charging’ via an exhaust gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor. The numbers are good with 330kW and a stout 600Nm of torque. This can reach 640Nm for 10 seconds on overboost. AMG says it has worked the six to deliver a quick response and a free revving nature.
Upgrades include a new cylinder head with improved intake and exhaust ports and a new intake camshaft. Additionally, there is a new intake system with a larger volume and a new intercooler. The combination of a new turbo and an electric auxiliary compressor that delivers boost over a greater rev range means the 600Nm sticks around for longer.
It mates with the AMG fettled nine speed auto and a fully variable all-wheel drive set up. There is also an integrated starter-generator in the transmission housing, helping out with ‘boosting’ and quicker restarts.
AMG says the GLC 53 can hit 100 in 4.2s, and not that owners will care, but fuel consumption is rated at 9.9L/100km.
In an effort to address criticism of the 43 and 63, the GLC 53 has a special exhaust system. It features special resonators that ‘further amplify the sound experience’. Expect then lots of crackles and pops and bangs.
The AWD can vary the flow of torque between the axles, though operates with a rear drive bias, adding drive to the front when traction is required. The rear axle now comes with an electronically-controlled LSD and a Drift Mode function.
In Drift Mode, which is available with the optional AMG Dynamics Plus Package, the new GLC 53 acts as a rear-wheel-drive vehicle across the entire speed range. You also gain active engine mounts with this package. There are a full range of drive modes including Race, to really amp things up.
The 53 has a new AMG Ride Control system, using steel springs and adaptive dampers. The spread between Comfort and Sport+ is said to be more pronounced with this new setup.
It should stop okay with 390mm rotors upfront and 360mm items on the rear. The new GLC 53 has an improved tow rating too, up from 1800kg to 2400kg braked.
Rear axle steering also makes the grade, helping both in the car park by reducing the turning circle and at speed by improving turn in. The function can also point the rear wheels in the same direction as fronts in high speed curves, which improves stability.
Matte black 21-inch AMG forged wheels set the GLC off, and exterior elements are finished in gloss black. Those who opt for the Design Plus kit will have a GLC 53 with an enlarged front splitter and additional flics up front, and a bigger AMG lip on the rear spoiler. There are also additions to the side skirts and rear diffuser.
The GLC 53 should be along locally later in the year.
