Along with the Mercedes-Maybach GLS, the three-pointed star showcased few more models at the 2019 LA Auto Show. These include the AMG GLE 63 4Matic+, AMG GLE 63 S 4Matic+, and the GLS 63 4Matic+.
The GLE 63 models are, of course, the range-topping ones in the GLE family. It gets a bit more aggressive and sporty-looking bodywork compared to the GLE 53 we saw earlier this year. The base model rides on 20-inch light-alloy wheels with AMG lettering, while the S variant comes with 21-inch wheels.
Up to 22-inch wheels are available as an option. The discs measure 400 x 38 mm at the front with 6-piston fixed calipers, and 370 x 32 mm at the rear with single-piston floating calipers.
The rear-end has a better distinguishing factor with a diffuser-like insert and squarish tailpipes compared to the circular ones in the GLE 53. Options include the AMG Night package which comes with heat-insulating, dark-tinted windows, and the front splitter, front & rear apron trim, side skirts, mirror caps and window frames in black. Plus, the twin tailpipe trim elements are finished in black chrome.
Variable ratio speed-sensitive sports steering
Interiors get the standard AMG seats upholstered in Nappa leather, AMG Performance steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles, and MBUX infotainment system with AMG-specific display styles.
Other technologies include the AMG Ride Control+ air suspension with ADS+ (Adaptive Damping System), 48-volt Active Ride Control roll stabilization system, and an electronically controlled locking differential at the rear axle.
Powering the GLE 63 models is a 4.0-litre (3,982 cc) V8 twin-turbo petrol engine with an integrated EQ Boost starter-alternator. In the standard GLE 63, the output is 420 kW (571 metric hp) between 5,750-6,500 rpm and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque between 2,250-5,000 rpm. In the GLE 63 S, the engine delivers 450 kW (612 metric hp) between 5,750-6,500 rpm and 850 Nm (627 lb-ft) of torque between 2,500-4,500 rpm. As always, the electric motor temporarily puts out an additional 22 hp and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft).
In partial load, cylinders two, three, five and eight are deactivated to reduce fuel consumption. A special display in the instrument cluster indicates whether the cylinder deactivation system is in use and whether the engine is operating in four or eight-cylinder mode.
The AMG Speedshift TCT 9G transmission sends power to all four wheels via 4Matic+ fully-variable AWD system. The GLE 63 S is claimed to accelerate from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.8 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 280 km/h (174 mph).
The Dynamic Select drive modes include Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual, Race (S variant only), Trail and Sand. As the name suggests, the Race is intended for track use; all the parameters here are configured for maximum performance.
Also, read: 4th gen Mercedes-Benz GLE gets Coupe siblings
Another 63 model here is, of course, the GLS 63 4Matic+, based on the 3rd generation GLS which made its debut in April this year. Here too, the design upgrades are very similar to the GLE 63 models above. As standard, it comes with 21-inch 10-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in tantalite grey with a high-sheen finish. Up to 23-inch wheels are available as an option.
The discs of the high-performance braking system measure 400 x 38 mm at the front with 6-piston fixed calipers, and 370 x 32 mm at the rear with single-piston floating calipers.
Variable ratio speed-sensitive sports steering
The GLS 63 too gets a 3-spoke AMG steering wheel, MBUX system with AMG-specific displays, AMG Ride Control+ air suspension with ADS+ (Adaptive Damping System), 48-volt Active Ride Control roll stabilization system, and an AMG electronic rear-axle locking differential. The rest of the technologies it carries over from the regular GLS including the driving assistance systems.
There are a total of 6 driving modes: Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual, Trail, and Sand. In the Trail and Sand modes, the suspension is raised to a higher level (55 mm more ground clearance). When the vehicle reaches 70 km/h (43.5 mph), the suspension is automatically lowered again. There’s no ‘Race’ mode here, for obvious reasons.
As with most of the new Mercedes models these days, the GLS 63 too is powered by the legendary 4.0-litre (3,982 cc) V8 twin-turbo petrol engine with an integrated EQ Boost starter-alternator. The ICE produces 450 kW (612 metric hp) between 5,750-6,500 rpm and 850 Nm (627 lb-ft) of torque between 2,500-4,500 rpm. The AMG Speedshift TCT 9G transmission sends power to all four wheels via 4Matic+ fully-variable AWD system.
If you’re interested to know, a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration is claimed to happen in 4.2 seconds. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).
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