Mercedes has finally updated its top-trim AMG SUVs for 2020 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, bringing out refreshed versions of both the GLS and GLE with 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 power.
The five-seater Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S has been given the same 603-horsepower, 627 lb-ft engine found in the Mercedes-AMG E63, replacing the long-outdated 5.5-liter twin-turbo unit. Additionally, a 48-volt electric motor has been attached where the starter would normally go, providing up to 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque in certain situations. That means up to 624 horsepower and 811 lb-ft of torque combined, if there’s enough charge available. Not bad.
Power gets to the wheels via a nine-speed automatic and an all-wheel drive system that continually monitors traction and distributes torque to the front and rear wheels as necessary. Up to 100 percent of the power can be sent to the rear if needed. There’s also an electronic locking rear differential for getting out of especially traction-limited situations. Mercedes quotes an estimated 0-60 time of just 3.7 seconds, and an electronically limited top speed of 174 mph.
Adaptive air suspension is standard, and comes included with AMG’s active ride control roll stabilization system, which uses the 48-volt electrical system to adjust the active roll-bars to improve handling and eliminate roll. 21-inch wheels come standard.
Inside, occupants are greeted to two big 12.3-inch screens, one for the gauge cluster and another for the infotainment system. There’s navigation, MBUX voice control, and support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s also five USB ports, inductive wireless charging, and a 64-color ambient lighting system. The front seats are heated and ventilated as standard.
The GLS 63 S is virtually identical in terms of powertrain setup, it just has a third row and seating for seven (six if you option the second-row captain’s chairs). The company quotes an estimated 0-60 time of 4.1 seconds for the GLS, and leaves the speed limiter the same, at 174 mph.
Mercedes has yet to reveal pricing for either SUV, but says they’ll start arriving in dealerships come mid-2020.
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