Mercedes-AMG unveils updated GLE and GLS with powerful V8 engine

The updated Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S and GLS 63 are not just big, fast crossovers, but two different answers to the same question: how much practicality you can combine with a V8. The GLE is closer to the role of a daily family vehicle with very serious performance, while the GLS is already a full-size flagship for long trips, a third row, and regular hauling of heavy loads.

After the update, both models retained the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, the 9-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G automatic transmission, and AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. In the global specification this means 612 hp and 850 N·m, but in some markets you may see 603 hp; it’s best viewed as a market-spec or measurement-method difference rather than a different engine.

Model and its place in the market

The GLE 63 S and GLS 63 sit above the regular GLE and GLS not only in power, but also in chassis tuning, brakes, and overall character. In format, the GLE is closer to fast premium crossovers like the BMW X5 M: it’s large, but still not excessive in the city. The GLS 63 is a heavy full-size vehicle that plays in the same field as the BMW Alpina XB7 and Cadillac Escalade-V.

Who the GLE suits: a driver who needs one car for every day, but won’t give up a V8, a big trunk, and a very quick launch. Who the GLS suits: a family that genuinely uses the third row, travels far, and can take advantage of towing up to 3493 kg. Who neither model suits: anyone looking for efficiency, compact size, or low running costs.

Generations and model history

The focus of this news is not new generations, but updated current AMG versions. For the GLE this is the W167 body, present in the lineup since 2018; for the GLS it’s the X167, current since 2019. So we’re talking about heavily revised existing models, not a full platform change.

Historically, the GLE continues the line of large Mercedes-Benz crossovers previously known as the M-Class, while the GLS is the successor to the large three-row GL and early GLS models. So choosing between them is not about how new they are, but about format: a big fast five-seater or a full-size seven-seat flagship.

Engines and transmissions

In both cases, the hardware is built around the same power package: a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, electrified assistance, a 9-speed automatic, and AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. In the global AMG spec, output is 450 kW, i.e. 612 hp, and 850 N·m. On US pages you can see 603 hp with the same 850 N·m, so keep that in mind when comparing catalogs.

The difference between the models is felt not in the engine itself, but in weight and purpose. The GLE 63 S accelerates to 100 km/h in 3.9 s and feels sharper. The GLS 63 does the same in 4.2 s, but carries a much larger body, a third row, and more usable space.

Body, dimensions, and chassis

The GLE is noticeably shorter and lighter: 4953 mm long, 2995 mm wheelbase, curb weight 2525 kg. The GLS is already 5243 mm long, 3134 mm wheelbase, and curb weight 2775 kg. On paper the difference looks like just numbers, but in the city and in parking garages you feel it immediately.

Both models are seriously prepared in terms of suspension. The GLE uses AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL with active roll stabilization and adaptive damping. The GLS features AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension together with ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL; for rough roads the body can be raised by another 20 mm. This isn’t hardcore off-road hardware, but the comfort and stability reserves are very high.

Interior, comfort, and safety

The strong point of both AMGs is not only acceleration, but also the fact that they don’t wear you out on a long trip. The GLE offers a quiet cabin, rich equipment, and enough space for a family without the feeling that you’re driving an overly large vehicle. The GLS is more logical where the second and third rows are needed regularly, not occasionally.

Practical nuances are worth knowing in advance, too. For the GLE, owners note not the most user-friendly steering-wheel buttons and a tight third row, if you need it at all. For both models, it’s important to check the status of any recall campaigns related to passive safety components if you’re looking at a specific vehicle on the market.

Everyday use

In daily driving, the main difference between the GLE and GLS isn’t the acceleration numbers, but how often you enter underground parking, whether you carry family on the third row, and whether you need extra interior space. The GLE is easier to live with in the city: it’s shorter, more maneuverable, and already has a very large trunk in five-seat configuration. The GLS is more comfortable on the highway and roomier for passengers, but demands more space everywhere.

Fuel consumption here should be taken without self-deception. Even the official figures are high, and in real city driving the GLS can easily go well beyond 15 l/100 km. Add expensive large-diameter tires, big brakes, and costly options, and it becomes clear these vehicles are bought for their format and capabilities, not for savings.

Strengths and weaknesses

If you simplify it to one takeaway, the GLE 63 S is a fast large crossover for those who want a balance between performance and everyday convenience, while the GLS 63 is for those who want the same V8 but with a full-size cabin and fewer capacity compromises.

Tuning and accessories

Tuning for these models makes sense when it solves a specific task. For the GLE, that often means protecting the interior and trunk, because the car frequently serves as family transport with suitcases, kids’ items, or sports gear. For the GLS, it’s more important to make entry easier, protect the body from dirt, and add convenience on long trips.

It’s better to start not with decorative parts, but with items that actually work every day: floor mats, side steps, cargo solutions, mud flaps. Grilles, diffusers, or carbon trim make sense only after basic day-to-day needs are covered.

What to check out for this model

• GLE trunk mat — useful if the trunk regularly carries suitcases, kids’ items, or sports gear.
• GLS side steps — make getting in easier for children and older passengers, especially on a vehicle with high ground clearance.
• GLE roof bars — add capacity for a roof box or gear mounts when the cabin and main trunk are already full.

Conclusion

The updated Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S and GLS 63 stick to the old logic: a big gasoline V8, a fast automatic transmission, all-wheel drive, and a very high torque reserve. The GLE looks like the smarter choice for those who drive daily and want one versatile vehicle, while the GLS opens up best where you need three rows, long routes, and maximum capacity.

The key is not to confuse the V8 emotion with ownership practicality: these are expensive, heavy, and thirsty vehicles, but that’s exactly the set of capabilities people choose them for. The material is based on real selection experience, practice, and real-world usage scenarios, so the main question here is simple: do you need a fast large crossover, or do you truly need a full-size AMG.