Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 4Matic Goes Six-Cylinder, Replacing GLC 43 and GLC 63

Mercedes-AMG has officially confirmed a long-anticipated move: the four-cylinder Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 and GLC 63 are being discontinued and replaced by the new Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 4Matic, powered by a six-cylinder engine. The decision marks a clear response to criticism from AMG purists and aligns the GLC range more closely with the brand’s performance heritage.

At the heart of the new GLC 53 4Matic is an evolved version of AMG’s 3.0-litre inline-six M256 Evo engine, which made its debut just days ago in the facelifted Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W223). This powerplant is also related to the unit used in the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4Matic, though it receives notable technical upgrades.

More Boost, More Electrification

Compared with the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4Matic (see here the review), the M256 Evo features increased boost pressure, up from 1.1 bar to 1.5 bar. The electrically assisted compressor has also been uprated, now delivering up to 7.5 kW (previously 5 kW) and capable of operating almost continuously for longer periods.

As from its original development, the M256 architecture combines a turbocharger with an electric auxiliary compressor, designed to eliminate turbo lag at low engine speeds before exhaust gas flow fully spools the turbocharger.

The engine is paired with a second-generation mild-hybrid system, integrating a 17 kW (23 PS) electric motor producing 205 Nm into the AMG Speedshift TCT 9G nine-speed automatic transmission. Maximum torque rises from 560 Nm to 600 Nm, while an overboost function at 5,200 rpm briefly increases output to 640 Nm.

The new engine will be also available in the C-Class sedan after the facelift from the next autumn.

Performance and Drivetrain

In the Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 4Matic, the updated powertrain delivers strong performance figures. With Race Start and the optional AMG Dynamic Plus package, the SUV accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 270 km/h when equipped with the AMG Driver’s Package.

Power is distributed via the AMG Performance 4Matic+ fully variable all-wheel-drive system, which decouples the front axle during normal driving on dry roads to enhance efficiency and driving dynamics. For the first time on the GLC, Drift Mode and an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential are available as part of the AMG Dynamic Plus package.

Chassis, Steering and Driving Modes

The new AMG Ride Control suspension, featuring steel springs and adaptive dampers, offers a broader range between comfort and sportiness with three selectable settings: Comfort, Sport, and Sport+.

Rear-axle steering comes as standard. At speeds of up to 100 km/h (depending on AMG Dynamics settings), the rear wheels steer up to 2.5 degrees opposite to the front wheels, enhancing agility. Above 100 km/h, the rear wheels steer in the same direction as the fronts, up to 0.7 degrees, improving stability at high speeds.

Drivers can choose between five standard driving modes—Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual—with Race added when the AMG Dynamic Plus package is specified. The AMG Dynamics system adjusts ESP behavior, torque distribution and overall vehicle responses across Basic, Advanced and Pro settings.

Sound and Design Options

A newly developed exhaust system with special resonators delivers a more emotional engine note, while the optional AMG Real Performance exhaust adds a manually controlled flap system.

Among the available appearance packages is the new Golden Accents edition, offered for one year from launch. It combines Obsidian Black Metallic or Graphite Grey Magno paint with Techgold exterior highlights, 21-inch matte-black forged AMG wheels, the AMG Design Plus package, and AMG Sport seats upholstered in black leather with accent-colored stitching.