While the updated interior balances big screens with physical controls, Mercedes-Benz launched its revised GLE-Class and GLS-Class SUVs earlier this year, and now it’s AMG’s turn to get in on the fun. On Monday, Mercedes pulled the covers off the 2027 AMG GLE63 S and GLS63.
The big news here is the engine under the hood of these two performance SUVs. Mercedes says they’re both fitted with a new AMG version of the M177 Evo engine—the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 with the new flat-plane crankshaft. We’ve seen this new engine in non-AMG models already, where it makes 530 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. AMG turns up the heat and raises those figures to 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque for both of these new models.
View Price on AmazonMercedes is being coy on the details for now, but says this engine has “an optimized injection system, newly designed intake and exhaust ports, a revised intake camshaft, as well as improvements to the compressor wheel and turbocharger housing.” It also has a new generation integrated starter generator for the 48-volt mild-hybrid system that supplies power at lower engine speeds. Mercedes claims the assist is worth 23 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque.
The power figures are identical to what these SUVs offered before. However, acceleration times are improved. The GLE63 S chops one tenth off its time for a 0-60 mile-per-hour sprint in 3.6 seconds, while the GLS63 chops two tenths, making its 0-60 only 3.9 seconds. Top speed is the same for both at 174 mph.
Just like the M177 Evo in the non-AMG models, this flat-plane crank V-8 doesn’t scream to a super-high redline. In fact, its peak horsepower is actually made in a slightly lower rpm range than the previous cross-plane crank version of this engine. Peak torque is identical, coming on as low as 2500 rpm. Mercedes developed the M177 Evo to offer a high-performance V-8 engine that meets ever-tougher emissions regulations; to that end, it has a new AMG Performance exhaust system fitted with a particulate filter worldwide, but AMG still promises a “highly dynamic expression” when in the Sport+ drive mode.
“Our V-8 is a central component of our performance DNA and the ideal heart for the new GLE63 S and GLS63,” says AMG boss Michael Schiebe. “For years, the V-8 has stood for impressive performance and great popularity among our customers. With the new generation M177 Evo, we have fundamentally revised the power unit and secured its presence in our portfolio for the long term. The result is an engine that impresses with agile response, strong performance and a pronounced appetite for revs—while at the same time meeting increasingly demanding regulations worldwide.”
Outside the powertrain, the biggest difference you’ll notice in these updated AMG models is the design. The front ends are redesigned with the new framed AMG radiator grille, larger air intakes and LED headlights with the three-pointed star logo used as the DRL design. The same pattern is repeated for the taillights, and per usual with V-8-powered AMG models, a distinctive quad exhaust sits integrated into the rear fascia.
Source: roadandtrack.com
