Following the unveiling of the facelifted GLE and luxury GLS SUVs, Mercedes has now revealed their flagship performance versions. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ and Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ are powered by the new V8 engine featuring a flat-plane crankshaft and 48-volt mild-hybrid technology.
Two months ago, Mercedes presented the facelifted large GLE and luxury GLS SUVs, and two weeks ago it announced pricing for the new models. Now, the company has unveiled the range-topping Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ and Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+, both equipped with the new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 featuring a flat-plane crankshaft and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The integrated starter-generator, housed within the transmission, delivers an additional 17 kW (23 hp) and 205 Nm of torque.
The new M177 EVO engine produces the same output as its predecessor in both models: 450 kW (612 hp) and 850 Nm between 2,500 and 4,500 rpm. Equipped with a particulate filter as standard in all global markets, the engine complies with the most stringent emissions regulations.
In addition to the flat-plane crankshaft design, the new engine features an optimized fuel-injection system, newly designed intake and exhaust ports, a revised intake camshaft, and improvements to both the compressor wheel and turbocharger housing.
The AMG Performance exhaust system is also completely new, with its sound character changing according to the selected driving mode or via a dedicated button on the center console.
Both models come standard with AMG Ride Control+ adaptive air suspension, which automatically adjusts both damping characteristics and ride height depending on the selected driving mode.
In Comfort mode, the suspension lowers the vehicle by 10 mm at speeds above 120 km/h. In Sport and Sport+ modes, the ride height is lowered by 10 mm at all speeds. In Trail mode, the suspension raises the vehicle by up to 55 mm for rough terrain, while the all-wheel-drive system and suspension settings adapt accordingly.
Both SUVs also feature AMG Active Ride Control as standard, with active anti-roll bars that reduce body roll during cornering, as well as an AMG electronically controlled locking rear differential.
Customers can configure both models with large-diameter wheels, up to 22 inches for the AMG GLE and up to 23 inches for the AMG GLS.
From a design perspective, the two models stand out through their redesigned front end, featuring the signature AMG grille, larger air intakes, and LED headlights with a distinctive AMG light signature. At the rear, the highlights include two pairs of rectangular exhaust outlets and a sporty diffuser.
The interior can be specified with Exclusive Nappa leather upholstery in a variety of colors, including black, Macchiato Beige, Beech Brown, and Red Pepper, as well as Exclusive Style Nappa leather in Black and Macchiato Beige. Exclusive MANUFAKTUR colors such as Yacht Blue, Tartufo Brown, and Carmine Red are also available. The headliner can be finished in microfiber, while carbon-fiber and aluminum trim elements are offered.
The multimedia system, running the new MB.OS software, includes AMG-specific displays showing torque distribution, G-forces, and detailed engine parameters.
The MANUFAKTUR personalization program offers a wide range of exclusive paint finishes, including High-Tech Silver Magno, Patagonia Red Metallic, Mystic Blue Metallic, Opalite White Metallic, Alpine Grey Solid, Opalite White Magno, Silicon Grey Solid, Côte d’Azur Light Blue Metallic, and Ireland Mid-Green Metallic.
Pricing has not yet been announced. However, it may take several more months before official figures are released, as Mercedes will first launch the GLE 580 4MATIC and GLS 580 4MATIC, which are scheduled to reach the market in autumn 2026.
