Mercedes-AMG expands its model portfolio with the new GLE 53 hybrid 4MATIC+, available as both an SUV and a Coupe. This plug-in hybrid vehicle offers impressive performance and a significant electric range, making it a well-rounded choice for daily use.

The heart of this sporty hybrid is a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbocharged engine. This engine, known as the conventional GLE, has been extensively modified for the hybrid variant. With 449hp, it now produces 14hp more than the previous version. The upgrades include reprogrammed software and an additional nose cooler. In the hybrid version, the electric motor takes over the task of the electric additional compressor, which leads to an extremely spontaneous and dynamically responsive 3.0-litre engine.

This inline six-cylinder is mated to a 100 kW electric motor, a 31.2 kWh traction battery, and the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. The hybrid system delivers a maximum power output of 544hp and a peak torque of 750Nm, translating into impressive driving performance. The GLE 53 hybrid can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.7 seconds, and its top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h. It can travel purely on electric power at speeds of up to 140km/h.

The hybrid model offers a remarkable electric range of 80-86km for the SUV variant and 82-87km for the Coupe, according to WLTP standards. For charging, an 11 kW AC charger is included, and a 60 kW DC fast charger can be equipped upon request, which can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in just 20 minutes.

Design-wise, it inherits the design changes introduced in the conventional GLE models. It stands out with open cooling air inflow in the centre of the front guard, which accommodates an additional nose cooler. The exterior features hybrid-specific badges on the fenders and rear to denote its electrified drive. Standard equipment includes 21-inch alloy wheels and the AMG high-performance brake system with large brake discs.

Inside, the MBUX infotainment system incorporates hybrid-specific displays and features, providing information on the battery’s status, temperature, and electric range.

The chassis has been extensively upgraded, with new passive stabilisers, stop buffers in the front struts, and fresh dampers on the rear axle. The AMG ride control air suspension with adaptive damping offers a comfortable ride and sporty handling, designed for a balance between electric driving and sporty performance.

The GLE 53 hybrid features AMG dynamic select driving programs, offering various driving modes to suit different scenarios. It includes hybrid-specific driving programs, such as “Electric” for electric-only driving and “Battery Hold” to maintain the battery’s charge level for future use.

The legal Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) warns pedestrians of the approaching performance hybrid by broadcasting a specially composed low-frequency AMG sound, which is audible both inside and outside the vehicle, ensuring safety and compliance.

The GLE 53 hybrid 4MATIC+ offers a dynamic and efficient plug-in hybrid option, enhancing the brand’s electrified portfolio. It combines Mercedes-AMG’s renowned performance with eco-friendly driving, offering a versatile solution for a wide range of driving scenarios.

Specific availability and features may vary based on market and regional regulations.

Ferrari’s Special Projects division has revealed the latest creation from its atelier, the one-of-a-kind SP-8 roadster. Commissioned by a wealthy customer from Taiwan, the SP-8 is based on the Ferrari F8 Spider but with a key modification – it’s a true roadster, as its electrically retractable hardtop has been removed to create an open-top experience.

This unique SP-8 roadster boasts a striking two-tone exterior. It’s painted in matte Argento Micalizzato with carbon fibre sections finished in glossy iridescent Blue Sandstone. The open-air design showcases a unique and refreshed look compared to the donor car.

The SP-8 differentiates itself further from the F8 Spider with several bespoke elements. It features all-new headlights with unique masks and lenses, while the taillights are inspired by the Ferrari Roma but come with custom lenses. The windscreen and exhaust tips are borrowed from the Ferrari 296 GTB. It rides on retro-inspired five-spoke alloy wheels with a matte gray finish, reminiscent of the iconic F40’s wheels.

The SP-8 also showcases an imposingly wide aluminum front grille, created from a single 3D-printed mold, with classic vertical strakes. The grille theme is extended to the engine cover with longitudinal strakes, a nod to Ferrari’s classic models with side strakes, like the Testarossa.

Ferrari paid special attention to the SP-8’s body design to ensure it remains comfortable and quiet despite the absence of a roof. Extensive computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were used in its development.

Inside, the roadster features a change in the gear selector, harkening back to the days of gated shifters. The interior incorporates cloth material, a unique choice for a Ferrari, combined with laser-etched Navy Blue Alcantara. The carpets are made from twill fabric with an iridescent effect.

Under the SP-8’s hood lies the same mid-mounted twin-turbocharged 3.9-litre V8 engine as the F8 Spider, delivering a potent 710hp and 770Nm of torque to the rear wheels.

The Ferrari SP-8 is currently on display at the Mugello track in Italy and will remain there until the end of the Finali Mondiali Ferrari 2023 event on October 30. Afterwards, it will move to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, where it will be exhibited from November 16 until March 2024.