Mercedes-Benz has officially pulled the covers off the 2027 Mercedes-AMG GLC 53, signaling a pivotal shift in its performance strategy by reinstating the beloved inline-six engine. Marking a departure from the controversial four-cylinder-only direction of recent years, this new performance SUV (and Coupe) delivers a potent 443 hp and introduces enthusiast-focused features like Drift Mode to the segment. Slated for a global rollout in late 2026, the GLC 53 positions itself as a direct rival to the BMW X3 M50 and Audi SQ5.

What Is Under The Hood?

The headline for the 2027 GLC 53 is undoubtedly its powertrain. AMG has reworked its 3.0-litre inline-six engine to deliver a "high-revving character" and a more emotive soundtrack, addressing enthusiast feedback head-on.

The engine utilizes an exhaust gas turbocharger alongside an electric auxiliary compressor. This combination virtually eliminates turbo lag, ensuring instant throttle response across the rpm range. A 48-volt integrated starter-generator (ISG) also provides a temporary boost of 23 hp and supports smooth stop-start operation.

Handling And Drift Mode

For the first time in a GLC model, AMG is offering Drift Mode. Available via the optional AMG Dynamic Plus Package, this feature directs torque exclusively to the rear wheels, allowing for controlled slides on closed courses.

• AMG Performance 4MATIC+: The fully variable all-wheel-drive system can split torque continuously between front and rear axles for optimal grip or pure rear-wheel bias.
• Rear-Axle Steering: Standard on the GLC 53, the rear wheels turn up to 2.5 degrees opposite the front wheels at low speeds for agility, and parallel at high speeds for stability.
• Suspension: The AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with adaptive adjustable damping ensures the SUV balances daily comfort with track-ready stiffness.

Design And The Golden Accents Package

Visually, the GLC 53 is aggressive yet refined. It features the signature AMG vertical strut grille, larger air intakes, and a rear diffuser with quad exhaust tips. Inside, the cabin is dominated by the MBUX infotainment system, featuring an 11.9-inch portrait touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital driver cluster with AMG-specific graphics.

To celebrate the launch, Mercedes-AMG is offering an exclusive "Golden Accents Package" for the first model year (2027).

• Exterior: Techgold highlights on the 21-inch forged alloy wheels, side skirts, and AMG graphics.
• Interior: Black leather upholstery with gold contrast stitching and carbon fiber trim woven with metallic gold threads.
• Colors: Available exclusively with Obsidian Black Metallic or Graphite Grey Magno paint.

Price, Competition, And Release Date

While official pricing is yet to be announced, the 2027 Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 is expected to start north of $70,000 (approx. Rs 60-70 lakh excluding taxes). It will reach US dealerships in the second half of 2026, with an Australian launch confirmed for Q4 2026.

Key Rivals:

1. BMW X3 M50: The arch-rival offering similar six-cylinder performance.
2. Audi SQ5: A slightly less powerful but competitively priced alternative.
3. Porsche Macan S: The benchmark for handling in this segment.

Information regarding the India launch remains under wraps, though given the popularity of the GLC 43 in the region, the 53 is a likely candidate for future introduction.

Conclusion

The 2027 Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 is more than just a new model trim; it is a statement of intent. By bringing back the inline-six engine and adding legitimate performance hardware like rear-axle steering and Drift Mode, AMG has corrected course to appease purists. With 443 hp on tap and a 0-60 mph time of just 4.1 seconds, the GLC 53 bridges the gap between daily usability and genuine performance theatrics.