Mercedes-AMG has pulled the covers off the latest version of the GLC 53, and the updates make it the most engaging iteration yet.
The turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid setup now produces more power and torque, aided by a revised exhaust system. For the first time in an AMG SUV, a dedicated drift mode is also available.
In normal driving, the GLC 53 operates primarily as a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, with the front axle engaging only when required, such as during Race Start launch control.
By comparison, the 2026 model delivered 428 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque with a claimed 0–60 mph time of 4.9 seconds, but all of those metrics have been improved for 2027.
AMG has reworked the six-cylinder engine with a new cylinder head, a revised intake camshaft, a larger intake system, and a new intercooler.
The electrically assisted turbocharger now delivers a stronger electric boost, improving throttle response, while the power curve has been “adapted to a higher speed range,” encouraging drivers to rev the engine harder.
In total, output rises to 443 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, with torque temporarily increasing to 472 lb-ft for 10 seconds when overboost is activated.
These changes allow the GLC 53 to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, a gain of eight-tenths compared with the outgoing model.
That figure is achievable with the optional AMG Dynamic Plus Package, which also raises the electronically limited top speed from 155 mph to 167 mph.
With this package fitted, the crossover gains an electronic rear-axle limited-slip differential, enabling the new rear-wheel-drive-only Drift Mode.
The package further includes an AMG Performance steering wheel with a microfiber finish and red-painted brake calipers. As before, the GLC 53 uses a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Standard equipment continues to include rear-axle steering for sharper handling, while braking hardware consists of 15.4-inch front discs with four-piston fixed calipers and 14.2-inch rear rotors paired with single-piston floating calipers.
For 2027, the GLC 53 also adopts a more expressive appearance. AMG’s familiar Night Package remains available, adding gloss-black trim to the mirror caps, window surrounds, door handles, grille bars, badging, and exhaust tips.
It also brings a larger front splitter, additional aerodynamic elements, extended side skirts, diffuser accents, and a larger spoiler finished in body color. However, for the 2027 model year only, buyers can instead choose a Golden Accents Package.
This special package pairs either Obsidian Black Metallic or Graphite Grey Magno matte paint with matte-black 21-inch wheels featuring gold rims and center caps.
Brake calipers are finished in gloss black with white accents, and the fuel filler cap switches to a silver chrome design.
Inside, the Golden Accents Package adds black leather AMG sport seats with contrast stitching that matches the exterior highlights, extending to the door panels, floor mats, and dashboard.
Carbon fiber trim woven with Techgold metallic threads decorates the dash, while illuminated door sills display a white AMG logo.
Mercedes has not released pricing for the GLC 53 or its available packages. Given that the 2026 model starts at $92,150, opting for the Golden Accents Package is likely to push the final price comfortably into six-figure territory.
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