Mercedes-AMG had a pair of fast SUVs at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The German automaker unveiled the AMG versions of the GLS 63 and GLE 63 S. Both models are brandishing a mega-powerful V8 motor with Mercedes-Benz’s proprietary EQ Boost mild hybrid system.
Not too long ago, Mercedes-AMG also announced the GLE 53 Coupe arriving next year. But if you want the ultimate version of the GLE, the AMG GLE 63 S is more than enough to satisfy your whims.
On the other hand, the GLS is always known as the S-Class of SUVs. But with the arrival of an AMG GLE 63 S version, it is now one of the most powerful and agile family haulers this side of the planet.
The Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 and GLE 63 S share a lot in common
Perhaps the biggest commonality between both models is the aforementioned 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 603-horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. Both vehicles have a 48V onboard electrical system with EQ Boost technology, which is essentially a starter-generator providing shorter bursts of torque.
In fact, the EQ Boost starter-generator provides up to 21 more horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, although it does it for shorter periods each time. This gives the GLS 63 and GLE 63 S the performance merits of a supercar.
Don’t get us wrong, though. The GLS is pretty much a seven-seat luxury SUV while the GLE is strictly a five-seater. With this in mind, the AMG GLE 63 S is faster to 60 mph despite sharing the same motor with the GLS 63, finishing the deed in 3.7-seconds – which is remarkable for a large, five-seat luxury SUV.
But the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 is no slouch. It rushes from 0 to 60 mph in four seconds or less. Both SUVs have a rated top speed of 174 mph.
4Matic all-wheel-drive and air suspension are standard
The mighty V8 engine is mated to an AMG Speedshift TCT nine-speed automatic gearbox driving all four wheels. The AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system is a fully-variable system. It automatically adjusts the torque distribution depending on two factors: the driving scenario and the driver’s wishes.
The AWD system can automatically feed 100-percent of torque to the rear wheels for a true sportscar-like driving feel in an SUV. But then again, the system can direct up to 50-percent to the front and rear axle when off-roading.
Combined with AMG Dynamic Select (with seven driving modes) and air suspension with AMG Active Ride Control, both the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 and GLE 63 S are pushing the boundaries in providing supple comfort or superior handling when you need it most.
The new GLS 63 and GLE 63 S are unmistakably AMG models
Both SUVs also receive a bevy of standard kit including heated and ventilated front seats, a surround-view camera system, wireless charging, Active LED headlamps with adaptive high beams, LED taillights, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity.
And both are equipped with advanced safety features
The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 and GLE 63 S feature the latest generation of ADAS or advanced driver assistance systems. This includes active distant assist, active stop-and-go assist, route-based adaptation, active blind spot assist, and evasive steering assist among many others.
If you’re pining for either the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 or GLE 63 S, both SUVs are slated to arrive by mid-2020 as 2021 models. Pricing and trim levels are to be announced next year as well.