The AMG V8 SUV is not done yet. Far from it. Mercedes-AMG has revealed the updated GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ and GLS 63 4MATIC+, and the headline is exactly what AMG loyalists wanted to hear: the big twin-turbocharged V8 lives on. Both SUVs now use the heavily revised AMG M177 EVO 4.0-litre biturbo V8, paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system. Plus, you get updated chassis tech, sharper design, and more personalisation through Manufaktur.
In a world where performance cars are increasingly chasing silence, screens, and charging speeds, AMG has given its largest SUVs a proper Affalterbach heartbeat.
The AMG V8 Is Still Alive & Kicking
The biggest update sits under the bonnet. Both the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 and GLS 63 use the new M177 EVO engine, a thoroughly updated version of AMG’s legendary 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8.
It produces 603hp, and 850Nm. That torque is available from 2,500rpm to 4,500rpm, which means both SUVs should feel properly muscular without needing to be thrashed. It also features a 48V mild-hybrid system with an updated Integrated Starter Generator, adding a temporary 23hp and 205Nm of electric assistance in certain conditions.
AMG has not simply bolted on some hybrid tech and called it a day. The V8 now features a flat-plane crankshaft, modified intake camshaft, optimised fuel injection, revised intake and exhaust ports, improved turbocharger components, and an updated exhaust. It also gets a particulate filter as standard worldwide to meet current emissions regulations.
The important bit? AMG says the engine has been engineered to rev more freely, respond more sharply, and remain compliant for the long term. In other words, this is AMG future-proofing the V8 rather than quietly escorting it out of the building.
How Fast Are The New AMG GLE 63 S And GLS 63?
The new GLE 63 S AMG does 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds, while the larger GLS 63 AMG completes the same run in 4.2 seconds. Both models have a top speed of 280km/h.
These are large luxury SUVs with proper cabins, big boots, all-wheel drive, air suspension, and enough leather to make a private jet feel underdressed. Yet the GLE 63 S is deep into sports-car acceleration territory, while the GLS 63 is doing absurd numbers for a three-row luxury SUV.
Power is sent through AMG’s 9-speed automatic transmission to the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system. The system can constantly vary torque distribution depending on grip, throttle input, road surface, and drive mode.
There is also an electronically controlled AMG rear locking differential as standard. It helps send torque to the rear wheel with more grip, improving traction during hard acceleration and reducing inside-wheel slip during cornering. No messy brake-based fakery here. This is proper mechanical intelligence with electronic precision.
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What’s New With The Design & Styling?
The updated GLE 63 S and GLS 63 get a redesigned front end with a more aggressive AMG-specific radiator grille, larger air intakes, and a new LED light signature. At the rear, both models get AMG Performance exhaust tailpipes and a diffuser-style bumper design.
The GLE 63 S has the more athletic stance, while the GLS 63 leans into full-size AMG luxury SUV presence. Wheel sizes are suitably massive. The GLE 63 S can be specified with AMG wheels up to 22 inches, while the GLS 63 can go up to 23 inches. Standard multi-spoke AMG wheels are offered, with forged wheel options available for buyers who want the full performance SUV package.
AMG Drive Modes
The AMG Dynamic Select system gives the driver several drive modes:
- Comfort focuses on smooth throttle response, softer suspension, and relaxed gearshifts.
- Sport and Sport+ sharpen the throttle, firm up the suspension, quicken the 9-speed gearbox, and activate more emotional exhaust behaviour, including throttle blips and controlled misfires.
- Trail and Slippery are designed for low-grip surfaces, with gentler throttle response and smoother shifts.
- Individual mode lets the driver mix and match preferred settings.
- These modes give the GLE 63 S and GLS 63 a wide operating range. They can do quiet luxury SUV duties, long highway runs, mild off-road work, and full AMG nonsense when the mood arrives.
Interior, Screens & AMG Tech
Inside, the new GLE 63 S and GLS 63 continue the AMG formula of luxury with a performance edge. The cabin gets the latest-generation AMG Performance steering wheel, available in Nappa leather, microfibre, or carbon fibre.
The large screens display AMG-specific data, including torque distribution, G-forces, and engine parameters. Material options include Nappa leather Exclusive in black, macchiato beige, beech brown, and red pepper. There are also Manufaktur interior options in yacht blue, tartufo brown, and carmine red.
The GLS 63 remains the more practical and luxurious option, with three-row seating and a larger cabin. The GLE 63 S is the more focused performance SUV, especially for buyers who want the stronger driving edge.
GLE 63 S Vs GLS 63: Which One Makes More Sense?
The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S is the quicker and more driver-focused SUV. It has the same 603hp V8 as the GLS 63, but in a smaller and lighter body. With a 0–100km/h time of 3.9 seconds, it is the AMG SUV for those who care more about performance than third-row seating.
The Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ is the bigger, more luxurious, and more practical option. It still hits 100km/h in 4.2 seconds, which is ridiculous for a full-size luxury SUV. It is the one for buyers who want AMG speed with maximum space and road presence.
New AMG GLE 63 S And GLS 63 Debut: Final Thoughts
The updated Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S and GLS 63 arrive at an interesting time. Performance cars are changing fast, electrification is becoming unavoidable, and even AMG has experimented heavily with smaller hybrid powertrains. But these two SUVs show that the V8 still has a place in Affalterbach’s future.
The GLE 63 S and GLS 63 are not subtle machines. They are not pretending to be. They are big, fast, luxurious AMG SUVs with a proper V8, real chassis hardware, and enough power to outrun a few sports cars. That’s precisely why they matter.
