- Mercedes-AMG updates the GLE 63 S and GLS 63, keeping the V8 alive with a new mild-hybrid system.
- The revised twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 now produces 603 hp and 627 lb-ft, with a 0-60 time of 3.6 seconds in the GLE.
- Both SUVs feature sharp styling, advanced suspension technology and AMG performance hardware like active roll stabilization and full-time AWD.
Rumors of the demise of the V8 have been greatly exaggerated. With Mercedes-Benz withdrawing its…questionable four-cylinder PHEV decision, the V8 is still very much alive in Affalterbach. The latest AMG GLE 63 S Coupe and GLS 63 are proof of this.
These two performance SUVs have been completely redesigned inside and out, featuring powerful V8 engines with improved performance and, of course, electrification. The result is the kind of effortless performance that AMG buyers have come to expect – now with a little more polish.
Electrified Muscle, AMG Style
At the heart of both of these SUVs is an updated twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 that produces 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. This engine has been re-engineered to feel faster and more responsive, with a new flat-plane crankshaft reducing rotating mass helping the engine rev more freely. Upgraded intakes and turbos, meanwhile, improve throttle response and efficiency.
A new 48-volt mild-hybrid system with an updated Integrated Starter Generator (ISG 2.0) helps things along. It adds 23 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque, adding additional low-end torque and smoothing low-speed cruising. It’s not a full hybrid – and AMG is careful to keep it from feeling like one – but it makes the big V8 SUV feel more immediate off the line.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
With all the electrified V8 performing, the GLE 63 S accelerates to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds, while the larger GLS 63 does it in 3.9 seconds. Both top out at an electronically limited 174 mph.
AMG Ride Control + air suspension comes standard on both models, and now works with active roll stabilization via AMG Active Ride Control, which scans the road up to 1,000 times per second to combat body roll in real time.
Add a fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system and an electronically controlled rear locking differential, and these SUVs are engineered for performance – even if most buyers won’t even take them to the track.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
Same size, sharp attitude
Visually, the GLE and GLS 63 models choose a more conservative approach. The proportions remain largely unchanged, but there is now a new AMG-specific grille, revised LED lighting signature and larger front air intakes designed to feed the upgraded V8. At the rear, there are quad exhaust tips and a reshaped diffuser. And you can’t forget about the spectacular 10-spoke wheels, especially on the GLS.
Inside, not much changes: bigger screen, bold AMG-specific graphics, and lots of customisations. The latest AMG Performance steering wheel adds drive-mode controls, while MB.OS software brings real-time performance data such as torque split, G-forces and engine statistics.
Mercedes-AMG is also pushing hard into personalization with the expanded MANUFAKTUR program – which offers everything from bold paint finishes to high-end leather combinations like Yacht Blue and Tartufo Brown.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
Pricing & Availability
The updated AMG GLE 63 S and GLS 63 double down on AMG’s best performance: big V8 power with ample electrification, wrapped in proper AMG packaging. One thing we still don’t know is how much these performance SUVs will cost, but expect to pay a lot of money for two of AMG’s most powerful SUVs ever.
Motor1’s Opinion: Mercedes-AMG’s spectacular performance SUVs are back and better than ever. With a new electrified V8 and a reworked suspension, both of these SUVs should live up to the hype.
