New Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 2020 pricing and spec detailed: Mild-hybrid comes to BMW X5-fighting large SUV bruiser

Mercedes-AMG has released pricing and specification for its first-ever GLE 53 SUV, which combines a punchy twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system.

Priced at $166,700 before on-road costs, the GLE 53 five-door wagon comes in above the $124,400 GLE 400d, but expect to see the hardcore 63 variant land later this year as the range-topper.

With a total system output of 320kW/520Nm and drive sent to all wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission, the GLE 53 will accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 5.3 seconds, while the mild-hybrid EQ Boost set-up keeps fuel consumption to 9.4 litres per 100km.

Aside from its potent performance, the GLE 53 also scores a number of AMG goodies such as an active exhaust, performance brakes, Panamericana front grille, adjustable air suspension, steering tune and sports seats.

Standard equipment includes a Burmester sound system, 21-inch wheels, panoramic sunroof, illuminated door sills, wireless smartphone charger, heated front seats, 64-colour ambient lighting and head-up display.

MBUX technology handles multimedia duties, displayed across a 12.3-inch touchscreen, which sports satellite navigation, digital radio, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support and voice recognition controls.

Instrumentation is also displayed on a 12.3-inch screen with added AMG-specific graphics and readouts.

As for safety gear, the GLE 53 packs a surround-view monitor, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, tyre pressure monitoring and traffic sign recognition as standard.

Options include a night a Night Package that adds high-gloss black details, and an AMG Active Ride Control package, which adds active roll stabilisation and variable torque distribution.

The Coupe version of the GLE 53 is also expected to launch later this year.