Welcome back to RBR! Today we're in Colorado, driving the new AMG GLE 53 HYBRID 4MATIC+ for the first time! And after experiencing the brilliant new GLC 53, it's clear that AMG's six-cylinder comeback is gathering momentum. But this time, we're combining that renewed focus on engine character and exhaust sound with serious plug-in hybrid performance!
At its heart is the updated M256M EVO 3.0-litre straight-six, featuring a revised cylinder head, new intake system and higher-revving capability. The regular GLE 53 produces 450HP, while our plug-in HYBRID adds a 136HP electric motor and 400V battery system, bringing total output to 585HP and 750NM. That's enough for 0–62mph in just 4.5 seconds!
But the numbers only tell half the story. AMG has made a renewed effort to bring back the excitement and sound we've been missing from modern six-cylinder performance cars. And having driven both the new GLC 53 and my own E53 HYBRID, I think this GLE might have the most aggressive six-cylinder soundtrack yet!
There's also AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G gearbox, updated ESP software and revised AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension. The chassis has been retuned to deliver a greater difference between comfort and dynamic driving, while the regular 48V GLE 53 can also be equipped with AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL.
But is the GLE 53 HYBRID actually a better AMG than my E53? Can it match the excitement of the smaller GLC 53? And with the new GLE 63 still to come, is this already the sweet spot of the range?
In this video:
New GLE 53 tech explaination
Updated M256M EVO six-cylinder engine explained
GLE 53 exhaust sound and acceleration
GLE 53 HYBRID vs regular GLE 53
New v8 AMG GLE 63
UK pricing
Full driving review
AMG GLE 53 launch control
Electric driving mode and 100km EV range
GLE 53 vs AMG E53 HYBRID
GLE 53 vs GLC 53
Conclusion
UK pricing starts at £99,995 for both the regular GLE 53 and the plug-in HYBRID, giving customers a fascinating choice between two very different approaches to AMG performance.
For me, this might actually be a more convincing AMG than my E53 HYBRID. It's got the sound, the performance and the everyday comfort, with enough electric range to make it a genuinely useful daily driver. But would you choose the 585HP plug-in HYBRID, or save the weight and go for the regular 450HP GLE 53? Let me know in the comments! And look for the V8 GLE 63S video out next on RBR!
