2021 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 — SUV performance luxury at the highest level

(December 9, 2019) The new Mercedes-The GLS sits atop Mercedes-Benz SUV hierarchy and now the 2021 performance-oriented AMG GLS 63 has arrived, and it's more dynamic and versatile than ever before. It comes with imposing design, exclusive appointments, plenty of space for up to seven people and further improved driving dynamics, which Mercedes says is unrivaled in the large Luxury SUV segment.

Superior driving performance is provided by the powerful 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine with 603 horsepower and an integrated EQ Boost starter-generator. This ancillary unit powers the 48-volt electrical system, and its boost function provides additional power assistance at low engine speeds.

The new Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 also raises its dynamic capabilities thanks to its fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, AMG Speedshift TCT 9-speed automatic transmission and the AMG Active Ride Control air suspension with active roll stabilization based on AMG Ride Control+.

"With the new GLS 63 we are offering a vehicle to customers who won't accept compromises when it comes to versatility, effortless superiority and spaciousness. We have further increased the powertrain's efficiency in conjunction with the EQ Boost starter-alternator and 48-volt electrical system, which makes our GLS 63 the ideal companion for long distances, on a par with the S-Class, with rough-terrain attributes and space for up to seven people," said Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

For the first time, the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine is equipped with an integrated EQ Boost starter-generator. It unites a starter motor and an alternator in a single, powerful electric motor integrated between the engine and the transmission. This unit can provide up to an additional 21 hp of output and 184 lb-ft of torque, enabling particularly fast sprints from a standstill or sprints when overtaking.

This innovative component not only supplies the 48-volt electrical system and is used as a power generator, it also performs 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.

Furthermore, this modern 48-volt electrical system allows for the use of new technologies. It reliably supplies the onboard electrical consumers (e.g. air conditioning and heating elements plus infotainment and assistance systems) with energy while ensuring full driving power.

Other distinctive features of the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine include two turbochargers positioned inside the cylinder "V" configuration. The main advantages of this design are the compact engine construction, optimal response and low exhaust emissions. In the GLS 63 this engine develops an output of 603 hp. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes 4.1 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 174 mph.

The exterior: expressive, dominant and sporty

The unmistakable design of the new Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 indicates the sheer power of this performance model. The AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical slats in high-gloss chrome is larger than grilles found in other AMG models. The front view also highlights the expressive hood, the heavily contoured powerdomes and the standard Dynamic LED Headlamps with Adaptive High Beam Assist.

The look is reinforced by the newly designed AMG front bumper with an integrated jetwing design in high-gloss black, the front splitter, the jetwing trim strip in silver chrome and the striking side air inlets.

The flared wheel arches, side skirts and mirror housings are painted in the vehicle's color, while the window surrounds are in high-gloss chrome. The newly designed AMG rear bumper emphasizes width, and a sporty diffuser dominates the rear view along with the AMG exhaust system with two rectangular corrugated twin tailpipes. As standard, the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 is equipped with 21-inch AMG Multi- Spoke Wheels. Additional wheel variants with diameters of up to 23 inches are available.



The GLS is given an even more distinctive character with the optional AMG Night package. Striking exterior features in high-gloss black, e.g. the A-wing trim strip and front splitter, the exterior mirror housings and the trim strip in the AMG rear bumper, exude sporty elegance. Anodized window surrounds, black-chrome twin exhaust tailpipes and the optionally available AMG light-alloy wheels painted in matte black round off this unique look.

Interior: high-quality, spacious and authentically AMG

The interior of the GLS 63 is spacious, displays outstanding quality and has plenty of space for up to seven people. An authentic AMG atmosphere is ensured by the AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs, illuminated door sill panels with "AMG" lettering, black floor mats with "AMG" lettering and 64-color configurable ambient lighting. High-quality materials for the dashboard and door beltlines in Nappa leather, plus high-gloss anthracite limewood trim elements, accentuate its high-end ambience.

For state-of-the art operating convenience, the GLS 63 has a modern cockpit, with a high resolution 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch touchscreen media display, both under a single glass cover.

The multimedia touch display is generous in size and has a high resolution. The AMG instrument cluster with specific content such as the RACETIMER and AMG start-up menu has a choice of four display styles — "Modern Classic," "Sport," "Discreet" and AMG-specific "Supersport."

The AMG seats for the driver and front passenger ensure optimum lateral support and include an AMG- specific seat upholstery layout with an "AMG" badge in the front backrests. For first-class comfort, the multi-contour seats for the driver and front passenger also feature seat climate controls and massage functions. The second-row seats are heated as standard. Seat heating is also optionally available for the third seat row.

Other model-specific appointments and controls such as the 3-spoke AMG steering wheel variants provide optimized ergonomics. These steering wheels have a flattened lower section and make a strong impression with touch-control buttons, aluminum shift paddles and "AMG" lettering. The standard AMG Drive Unit steering wheel buttons help to ensure fast and precise operation of dynamic functions within close reach of the wheel.