2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC 53 AMG 4Matic X254
By Lorenzo Bianchi February 11, 2026
3.0-liter inline-six now delivers 330 kW (449 PS) and up to 640 Nm with Overboost.
Fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ with available Drift Mode.
0–100 km/h in 4.2 seconds, top speed up to 270 km/h optional.
Inline Six Revised for Sharper Character
With the 2027 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 53 4Matic X254, AMG has not reinvented its midsize performance SUV. It has intensified it. At the center sits a comprehensively updated 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged engine, now further refined for faster response and higher revving capability.
The unit produces 330 kW (449 PS) between 5,800 and 6,100 rpm, with 600 Nm available from 2,200 to 5,200 rpm. For brief intervals, Overboost lifts torque to 640 Nm for up to ten seconds at 5,200 rpm. The engine receives a new cylinder head, revised intake ports, a larger intercooler, and an intake system with increased volume. Boost pressure stands at 1.5 bar. The goal is not merely output, but a broader and more sustained torque plateau.
A second-generation integrated starter generator operating on a 48-volt system contributes 17 kW and 205 Nm. It supports short bursts of electric boost, recuperation, coasting, and near-seamless restart functionality.
Transmission and All Wheel Drive Calibration
Power flows through the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission, tuned for short shift times and immediate multi-gear downshifts. In Sport+ and manual modes, responses sharpen noticeably, with intermediate throttle blips and rapid ratio changes delivered via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Standard AMG Performance 4MATIC+ distributes torque fully variably between the front and rear axles. Under light load, the front axle can decouple entirely to enhance efficiency. With the optional AMG Dynamic Plus package, Drift Mode allows the vehicle to operate as a rear-wheel-drive model across the speed range on closed circuits.
An electronically controlled rear axle limited-slip differential supports traction and stability, particularly during dynamic lane changes and high-speed cornering.
Suspension and Steering Detail
The AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension combines steel springs with adaptive damping. Three selectable stages – Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ – adjust rebound and compression forces individually at each wheel. The spread between compliant cruising and firm control has been widened, allowing the X254 to balance daily usability with firm body control.
Rear axle steering is standard. Up to 2.5 degrees of counter-phase steering at speeds below 100 km/h enhances agility and reduces turning radius. Above 100 km/h, the rear wheels steer in phase with the front wheels, improving directional stability during lane changes and fast sweepers.
Braking hardware includes 390 x 36 mm ventilated front discs with four-piston fixed calipers and 360 x 26 mm ventilated rear discs.
Performance Figures and Positioning
With RACE START activated via the AMG Dynamic Plus package, the GLC 53 4Matic X254 reaches 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h, or 270 km/h with the optional AMG Driver’s Package.
Combined WLTP fuel consumption for the Coupe variant ranges from 9.7 to 9.2 l/100 km, with CO₂ emissions between 220 and 209 g/km.
Optional look packages like 21-inch forged wheels and Golden Accents with Techgold detailing showcase AMG's focus on customization without altering the primary engineering brief.