(December 2, 2019) With the new high-performance GLE 63 S SUV, Mercedes-AMG continues a 20 year tradition. In 1999 the M-Class based ML 55 AMG set a new standard in SUV performance with its handcrafted 342 hp V8 engine. This high-performance benchmark has been raised yet again with its current successor, the new 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S.

This top-of-the-line performer comes to the starting line with state-of-the-art engine technology — the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine generates 603 hp in the GLE 63 S and is paired for the first time with an EQ Boost starter-generator. This sophisticated system provides an additional electric output of up to 21 hp, powers the 48-volt on-board electrical system and helps optimize efficiency.

Fully variable all-wheel drive, air suspension with adaptive damping and active roll stabilization along with an extremely fast-shifting TCT 9G transmission, further enhance this top-performer's dynamics. On top of these performance enhancements, all the advantages of a luxury SUV also shine through: ample visibility and road presence, plenty of space for passengers and luggage, high- quality materials and the brand's very latest driving assistance, infotainment and connectivity features.

Even more versatility is provided thanks to improved off-road capabilities with the two additional drive programs of "Trail" and "Sand", as well as a variable vehicle level. The new GLE 63 S is where high on- road performance, first-class off-road characteristics and remarkable day-to-day usability meet.

"With our new GLE Performance models we are transforming a 20-year tradition into the future. For the first time we are electrifying our well-proven 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine with an EQ Boost starter-alternator and a 48-volt on-board electrical system. As such we are embarking on another new chapter of our drive technology, which we are also successively extending further to other model series as we move towards electrification and hybridization," said Tobias Moers, chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG.

"With our new premium SUVs, our customers can look forward to an unrivaled package of Driving Performance, high day-to-day suitability, optimum traction on practically all surfaces and also comfort on long journeys with high levels of efficiency."

The 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine in the new GLE 63 S is paired for the first time with an integrated EQ Boost starter-generator. It combines a starter motor and an alternator in a single, powerful electric motor integrated between the engine and the transmission. An additional 21 hp of output plus 184 lb-ft of torque can be called upon temporarily, enabling even more responsive acceleration.

This innovative component supplies power to the 48-volt on-board electrical system and is used as a generator to perform hybrid functions. These include boost, recuperation, gliding and the virtually imperceptible restarting of the engine with the start/stop function. For the first time, the EQ Boost starter-generator is also responsible for idle speed control. This allows fuel savings that were previously reserved for high-voltage hybrid technology.

The AMG 4.0-liter V8 engine works with well-proven twin turbocharging, in which two exhaust-gas turbochargers are arranged between the cylinder banks. The advantages of the "hot inside V" are the compact engine design and the immediate response of the exhaust-gas turbochargers. These are implemented using twin-scroll technology to make optimal use of the exhaust gas flow and improve responses even further.

Spray-guided direct fuel injection with piezo injectors, the all-aluminum crankcase, the four-valve-per- cylinder design with camshaft adjustment, air-water charge air cooling, alternator management, the ECO start/stop function and the gliding mode have all been retained.

Acceleration from 0-to-60 has been estimated at 3.7 seconds with a top speed of 174 mph.