Mercedes-AMG GLS, GLE get Euro7-compliant V8
New '63 models earn future-proofed M177 Evo 4.0-litre, more than 600hp, ample attitude
The message coming from AMG of late has been pretty unapologetic: while EV development will continue (with a new CLA 45 coming soon), the buyers really love V8s and they really love SUVs. And so, with customers always being right in matters of taste and all that, V8-powered SUVs is what they’re gonna get. Should a mere GLC 53 not be potent enough, there are now new GLE 63 and GLS 63 AMGs. Three of them, in fact, with a GLE Coupe alongside the SUV. Talk about a comeback.
See when we last wrote about the GLS 63 (that’s the massive Range Rover rival), it felt as much like an obituary as a news story. Always a small seller, in the UK at least, time seemed to be up: there surely didn’t need to be a GLS alongside both GLE and G-Class with a twin-turbo V8. With a need to drive down emissions, the S seemed an easy one to cull. Shows what we know, because here’s the newly revitalised 63, boasting what AMG calls ‘characteristic V8 power with state-of-the-art technology, exclusive design and an especially broad spread between sportiness, comfort and everyday usability.’
While the key stats for the 4.0-litre V8 are identical to last time around, with 612hp and 627lb ft meaning all the new 63s reach 62 in 4.2 seconds or less, plenty has changed inside. The M177 Evo, as recently seen in the S-Class and which is set to power a whole new generation of V8 AMGs, gets all sorts of modifications to make it Euro7 compliant, keeping it “in our portfolio for the long term” according to boss Michael Schiebe. So the fuel injection system is updated, there’s ‘state-of-the-art exhaust aftertreatment’ filtering out the nasties, and the second generation of mild hybrid integrated starter generator tech. The boost its offers at low revs (as well as smoothing out the stop start) will be further assisted by redesigned ports and ‘improvements’ to the compressor wheel, all with the aim of getting the V8 party started sooner. Even in its pre-Evo form, the V8 with some hybrid help was pretty responsive, so hopes are high.
Both GLE and GLS 63 will also benefit from the latest AMG sports exhaust, one which ‘contributes decisively to the V8’s acoustic character and underlines the emotional appeal.’ There were some hints that the engine’s character had been retained with the recent S-Class drive, despite the new raft of filters; let’s hope for more of it in the super SUVs.
Much of the rest of the makeover for both cars will sound familiar, particularly given the recent revisions made to the GLC 53 in an attempt to broaden the bandwidth between cruiser and bruiser. So AMG Ride Control+ promises a ‘firm, sporty set-up for the best possible driving characteristics, or a comfort set-up for a more compliant damping characteristic’, though that is optional. A locking differential is included to sit between the rear wheels (up to 22- or 23-inch) ‘for even more driving pleasure’ - giant V8 AMG SUVs are still V8 AMGs. Dynamic Select can raise a GLE or GLS 55mm for some moderate dune bashing in the new Trail mode, while Comfort lowers them 10mm at a cruise in an attempt to improve fuel consumption. (The absolute best WLTP figure for these new cars is 21.6mpg - don’t say you weren’t warned!)
In fact, there’s plenty to these AMG machines than just the much-loved V8. The ESP is totally overhauled from civilian spec, the driveshafts are toughened up to deal with what fully variable four-wheel drive can do, and Active Ride Control on both axles will reduce roll. Don’t be surprised if both GLE and GLS are actually pretty sorted to drive, if still terrifying to have barrelling down the same road as you in the opposite direction.
Alongside V8s, it’s been suggested by the AMG top brass that it’s the design of the sportiest Benzes that really appeal to customers. So everything that was familiar before is really being lent into this time around, with ‘even greater presence and status’ - check out the grille, bigger intakes and AMG-specific light signature. You ain’t gonna miss ‘em, put it that way. Even if you wanted to.
The inside of both GLC and GLS 63 now get the latest MB.OS infotainment, plus more spec options for those tired of just black leather everywhere. So if you want Macchiato Beige, Beech Brown, Red Pepper, Yacht Blue, Tartufo Brown or Carmine Red - we’d say a hearty thumbs up for all - then now you can. AMG promises ‘an elegant, high-quality ambience that combines sportiness and luxury’ from the two interiors.
Schiebe once more: “Our V8 is a central component of our performance DNA and the ideal heart for the new GLE 63 S and GLS 63. For years, the V8 has stood for impressive performance and great popularity among our customers. With the new M177 EVO generation, we have fundamentally revised the power unit… The result is an engine that impresses with agile response, strong performance and a pronounced appetite for revs – while at the same time meeting increasingly demanding regulations worldwide.” Nice. Expect both on sale before the year is out, probably with a small price increase over the current £139,550 (GLE 63 S) and £158,600 (GLS 63 S). Which, wouldn’t you know, are available with some significant savings secondhand: this 2024 GLS has £55k off its new RRP, and there’s £50,000 off this 10,000-mile GLE. Long live AMG V8 depreciation, eh.
What is the purpose ? If I see that in my rear view mirror am I obliged to clear left lane ( in Germany ) ?
If I see that in passing rear lights it´s the same as the "You´ve been Novataken" sticker decades ago.
t to me. Mercedes absolutely nailed their designs 10 years ago and now all their cars look either like slugs or have bizarre trinkets on them.The new front end is gopping. The grille is just as bad as the one on the new BMW.
As for the GLC, that has the look of inflated Crossfire about it. Horrible.
The new front end is gopping. The grille is just as bad as the one on the new BMW.
As for the GLC, that has the look of inflated Crossfire about it. Horrible.
Like putting a fancy piece of cheese between a McD hamburger.
I did absolutely love that car at the time though don't get me wrong.
Development of ICE has peaked, any further efficiency gains now are super marginal, it's not worth the time and money.
It's been covered many times already, over multiple years, EV's are much cleaner than ICE.
The depreciation on these is rivalling a Taycan at RRP cost (which no one paid)
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