Mercedes-AMG unveils new GLE and GLS SUVs with updated V8 engines
Words: Andrew Sluys
Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the new GLE and GLS SUVs, both powered by a fresh crossplane V8 engine.
As expected, the SUVs look almost identical to their regular Mercedes counterparts, except for the standard AMG accents.
These include the iconic panamericana front grille, AMG-exclusive wheels, and more aggressive bumpers.
The biggest news is beneath this familiar skin, where it’s the first all-new model to benefit from the latest 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8.
This M177 Evo engine utilises a mild-hybrid system to assist with fuel economy and performance.
The new flat-plane crank reportedly allows the engine to spin faster, and provides a sharper throttle response.
A new intake camshaft, turbochargers, and fuel injection system further helps to improve performance efficiency in the engine.
Despite benefiting from this new engine, power and torque figures have remained unchanged at 450kW and 850Nm.
As for performance, the GLE63 S 4Matic+ can hit 100km/h in 3.9-seconds, whilst the larger GLS63 S 4Matic+ is slightly slower at 4.2-seconds.
Both are capable of an Autobahn-storming top speed of 280km/h.
Aside from the new engine, both these SUVs benefit from a rear locking differential, and an updated AMG Active Ride Control system.
Mercedes-Benz is yet to release any information regarding local pricing and specifications for these AMG SUVs.
