The Mercedes-AMG GLC53 4Matic+ is a significant update to the company's compact luxury SUV lineup. Gone is the lackluster inline-four powerplant that once powered the AMG GLC43, replaced by a turbocharged and electrically supercharged inline-six that pumps out 443 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. This new engine, internally dubbed the M256, is a familiar face in the AMG family, but with a few key tweaks to make it even more potent. The GLC53's engine is essentially the same as what's found in the CLE53 coupe and convertible, but with a new cylinder head and intake camshaft, as well as improvements to the intake and exhaust ports. This results in a significant increase in torque, with the GLC53 making 443 lb-ft of torque compared to the CLE53's 443 lb-ft with overboost. The engine is also aided by a larger volume intake system and a new intercooler. But what really sets ...
The Mercedes-AMG GLC53 4Matic+ is a significant update to the company’s compact luxury SUV lineup. Gone is the lackluster inline-four powerplant that once powered the AMG GLC43, replaced by a turbocharged and electrically supercharged inline-six that pumps out 443 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. This new engine, internally dubbed the M256, is a familiar face in the AMG family, but with a few key tweaks to make it even more potent.
The GLC53’s engine is essentially the same as what’s found in the CLE53 coupe and convertible, but with a new cylinder head and intake camshaft, as well as improvements to the intake and exhaust ports. This results in a significant increase in torque, with the GLC53 making 443 lb-ft of torque compared to the CLE53’s 443 lb-ft with overboost. The engine is also aided by a larger volume intake system and a new intercooler.
But what really sets the GLC53 apart is its new electrically controlled rear limited-slip differential and drift mode feature. This is a first for an AMG SUV, and it adds a whole new level of excitement to the driving experience. The GLC53 can be had with an optional AMG Dynamic Plus Package, which raises the top speed to 167 mph and gives you all the more opportunity to listen to that new inline-six.
In terms of performance, the GLC53 is a significant improvement over its predecessor. Mercedes-AMG says it now takes just 4.1 seconds to hit 60 mph from a standstill, 0.6 seconds quicker than the old car, when using launch control. And with the optional AMG Dynamic Plus Package, the top speed is raised to 167 mph, giving you all the more opportunity to listen to that new inline-six.
The GLC53 is available in both traditional SUV and crossover-coupe form factors, and it’s a great option for anyone looking for a high-performance compact luxury SUV. With its new inline-six engine, electrically controlled rear limited-slip differential, and drift mode feature, the GLC53 is sure to put a smile on the face of any driving enthusiast.
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