Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 (UK-Spec)
Mercedes-AMG launches its performance offering for the new GLE with the GLE 53 4MATIC+ (combined fuel consumption: 9.3 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 212 g/km)[1]. The basis for the signature AMG driving dynamics is provided by the 320 kW (435 hp) 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine, the fully variable all-wheel drive, the agile 9-speed automatic transmission, the AMG-specific drive programmes and the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL air suspension based on AMG RIDE CONTROL+ with electro-mechanical roll stabilisation. Thanks to the AMG-specific radiator grille with 15 vertical strips, it is immediately obvious that it is part of the AMG family. Numerous options such as the selectable performance exhaust system and the AMG steering wheel buttons make the driving experience even more emotional.
“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. The first step here is the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+, 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,” states Tobias Moers, Chief Executive of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
Always staying nicely in line: six-cylinder engine with twin charging
Its centrepiece is the electrified 3.0-litre engine featuring twin-turbocharging and an electric auxiliary compressor. The 6-cylinder in-line engine generates 320 kW (435 hp) and delivers maximum torque of 520 Nm. Its EQ Boost starter generator briefly provides an additional 16 kW of output plus 250 Nm of torque and additionally feeds the 48 V on-board electrical system.
2020 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 (UK-Spec)
The EQ Boost starter-alternator combines a starter motor and alternator 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. And this move has been a successful one: the GLE 53 4MATIC+ accelerates from zero to 62 mph in just 5.3 seconds and achieves an electronically limited speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
It really turns on the pressure: electric auxiliary compressor
The electric auxiliary compressor builds up a high level of boost pressure without any delays until the exhaust gas turbocharger kicks in. As a result the 3.0-litre engine reacts immediately and provides a dynamic response without turbo lag. An additional bonus is the high level of refinement of the six-cylinder in-line engine.
It will be electrifying: 48 V on-board electrical system
The EQ Boost starter-alternator can do even more. It also provides the 48 V on-board electrical system with electricity. The conventional 12 V electrical system is likewise supplied from the new network – by means of a DC/DC converter. The 48 V battery increases the overall battery capacity in the vehicle, which allows it to supply more electrical energy. An additional advantage: the same power requires only a quarter of the current of a conventional system. The result is that the wiring can be thinner and therefore lighter, which indirectly contributes to saving fuel. The existing 12 V system supplies power to consumers such as lights, cockpit, infotainment displays and control units.
It also does hybrid: EQ Boost starter-alternator
The EQ Boost starter generator is a key component of the 48 V system and not only serves as an alternator, 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-alternator is also responsible for idle speed control.
The hybrid functions include boost with 16 kW of output and 250 Nm 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 drive 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 compared with conventional six-cylinder engines. This creates space for an exhaust gas aftertreatment system mounted near the engine, which is therefore 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 give the option to change the sound of the vehicle at the press of a button. Depending on the drive programme, the sound characteristics change from unobtrusive comfort through to maximum emotive appeal.
