Mercedes-AMG introduced the facelifted GLE 53 earlier this year and now the company has announced a new plug-in hybrid variant.
Set to arrive at U.S. dealerships in 2025, the 2026 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Hybrid will be offered as a traditional crossover as well as a sporty crossover coupe.
While that’s not surprising, the model will have a plug-in hybrid powertrain that consists of a 443 hp (330 kW / 449 PS) 3.0-liter inline-six, a 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS) electric motor, and a 31.2 kWh battery pack. This setup will give the crossover a combined output of 536 hp (400 kW / 543 PS) and 553 lb-ft (749 Nm) of torque. That’s enough to enable the GLE 53 Hybrid to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.6 seconds and hit an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
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To put those numbers into perspective, the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 has a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with mild-hybrid technology as well as an output of 429 hp (320 kW / 435 PS) and 413 lb-ft (559 Nm) of torque. However, an Integrated Starter Generator can provide a boost of 21 hp (16 kW / 21 PS) and 148 lb-ft (200 Nm). Given the less impressive numbers, it’s not surprising that the mild-hybrid takes an extra 0.3 seconds to hit 60 mph (96 km/h).
Besides the plug-in hybrid powertrain, the GLE 53 Hybrid has “distinctive elements throughout.” These apparently include a lightly revised front fascia that directs air to an additional heat exchanger. Mercedes also said there’s new hybrid badging and revamped displays, which show hybrid-specific information such as charging status and remaining electric range.
Given the weight of the battery pack, it’s not surprising the AMG Ride Control+ air suspension was revamped for use on the plug-in hybrid. Mercedes didn’t go into many specifics, but said it benefits from new hardware and software.
Elsewhere, there are new rear dampers as well as fresh stabilizers on the front and rear axles. The team also fine-tuned the chassis, steering, and AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system.
Speaking of settings, the AMG Dynamic Select system has two hybrid-specific modes called Electric and Battery Hold. Electric mode causes the crossover to prioritize battery use, while Battery Hold mode limits the use of the battery.
Last but not least, the model has an acoustic alert system to warn pedestrians about its presence. As part of this effort, a “specially composed, low-frequency and speed-modulated AMG sound is emitted to the outside via a speaker at the front and a soundbar with two speakers at the rear.”
