THERE is new performance models aplenty over at Mercedes-AMG, with the unveiling of two new GLE models and the announcement of an all-new version of the GLS 63 4MATIC+, delivering a boost to the brand’s 2020 SUV superstars.
In the case of the GLE models, Mercedes-AMG is continuing a precisely 20 year old tradition as they did in 1999, with the ML 55 representing to the top model in the range, with a 255kW V8 engine.
Fast forward to the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 4MATIC+, which features an AMG 4.0-litre V8 bi-turbo engine generating 420kW in the GLE model series and 450kW in the S version.
For the first time, they all feature the EQ Boost starter alternator. This is accompanied by an additional electric output of 16kW, a 48-volt on board electrical system, cylinder shut off and petrol particulate filter for optimum efficiency.
Furthermore, the fully variable all wheel drive, the air suspension with adaptive damping adjustment and active roll stabilisation, and the extremely fast shifting TCT 9G transmission, further move the limits of vehicle dynamics upwards.
Even more versatility is provided by the improved off-road capabilities with the two additional drive programs; Trail and Sand, as well as the variable vehicle level. This is where extreme sportiness and first class off road characteristics come together.
The AMG 4.0-litre V8 engine works with the well proven twin turbocharging, where the two exhaust gas turbochargers are arranged not on the exterior, but 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 optimum use of the gas flow and improve the response even further.
Spray guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors, an all aluminium crankcase, four valve per cylinder design with camshaft adjustment, air water charge air cooling, alternator management, ECO start/stop function and gliding mode have all been retained.
The design idiom of the exterior embodies sheer energy and performance luxury, with an AMG-specific grille with vertical louvres, while the dynamic arrow-shape of the front section, with its smaller angle of approach, emphasises the distinctive proportions.
As a typical feature of the performance models, the front apron is a dynamic jet-wing design, and is painted in the vehicle colour with black air intakes. Imposing power-domes in the bonnet and front splitter in silver chrome emphasise the sharper all round design.
The side skirts, exterior mirror housings and flared wheel arches are painted in the vehicle colour, and seamlessly blend into the muscular overall look. Different wheel and tyre combinations cover all on and off road requirements.
The base model is shod with 20-inch light-alloy wheels with AMG lettering as standard, while the S variant comes with 21-inch wheels. Other wheel variants with diameters from 21 to 22-inches are optionally available.
Pricing and Australian specifications will be available closer to launch.
THE S-Class among SUVs meets AMG performance luxury. That’s the best way to describe the new 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ – a vehicle which is now more dynamic and versatile than ever before.
Emotive design, exclusive appointments, plenty of space for up to seven people, and further improved driving dynamics make the GLS 63 an unrivalled package in the luxury SUV segment.
Superior driving is guaranteed by the powerful 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine with 450kW of power and an integrated EQ Boost starter alternator. The 16kW ancillary unit supplies the 48-volt electrical system, and its boost function provides assistance at low engine speeds.
Acceleration from 0 to 100km/h takes 4.2 seconds, while the top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h. An enhanced top speed of 280km/h is possible with the optional AMG driver’s package.
The Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ also meets higher dynamic expectations thanks to its fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, the AMG speedshift TCT 9-speed automatic transmission and AMG active ride control.
The package adds air suspension with active roll stabilisation based on the AMG ride control+ air suspension system. The exterior look is reinforced by the newly designed AMG front apron with an integrated jet-wing in high gloss black.
A front splitter and jet-wing trim strip in silver chrome add a striking finish, as does the sporty side air inlets. The flared wheel arches, side skirts and exterior mirror housings are painted in the vehicle colour, while the window surrounds are in high gloss chrome.
The newly designed, width emphasising AMG rear apron with a sporty diffuser dominates the rear view, in conjunction with the AMG exhaust system with two rectangular, characteristically corrugated twin tailpipes.
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, and illuminated AMG door sill panels.
Black floor mats with AMG lettering and ambient lighting and ambient lighting complete the package. For state of the art operating convenience, the performance SUV also has a modern widescreen cockpit, with the instrument and media displays under a glass cover.
The HD multimedia touch display is generous in size too, while the AMG instrument cluster features specific content such as a race timer and AMG start-up menu, in four styles; modern classic, sport, discreet and super sport.
It also features new AMG-specific off-road drive programs for Trail and Sand, which, when selected, activate settings such as slope, incline and level, which can be displayed on the instrument cluster.
Pricing for the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 will be announced closer to its Australian launch.
