Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ and GLS 63 4MATIC+ Arrive in New Zealand
16 November, 2020
Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ and GLS 63 4MATIC+ Arrive in New Zealand
Performance, space and luxury, on and off the beaten track: pricing and specifications for the MercedesAMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+, GLS 63 4MATIC+ SUVs
Family-oriented fans of the high-performance Mercedes-AMG brand have more to choose from with the arrival in New Zealand of a pair of spacious and luxurious SUVs – the latest generation of the versatile and agile fiveseat Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+, and the “S-Class of SUVs”, the seven-seat Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+.
Just over 20 years since Mercedes-Benz released its first high-performance SUV, the ML 55, a pair of direct descendants offer a suitable homage to the trailblazing model but also illustrate the astonishing steps forward in power, driveability, technology, comfort and luxury since that landmark release.
The five-seat GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ and seven-seat GLS 63 4MATIC+ are generously equipped for the performancefocused driver, driven by the latest iteration of the proven Mercedes-AMG 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 engine that also powers high-performance GT models as well as key Mercedes-AMG linchpins such as the E 63 S 4MATIC+.
In this instance, the V8 in either SUV model sends an awe-inspiring 450 kW (at 5750 to 6500 rpm) and 850 Nm (at 2500 to 4500 rpm) via an AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G nine-speed transmission to where it’s most needed courtesy of AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive with fully variable torque distribution in combination with a rear axle-mounted limited-slip differential. In contrast, the output from the V8 engine in the 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML 55 AMG SUV was 255 kW – which was considered an astonishing figure in its day for an SUV.
Power delivery is supplemented by an EQ Boost starter-alternator. That includes a 48-volt on-board system capable of adding an extra 16 kW and 250 Nm in short bursts, such as at take-off, but also acting as a power
generator to assist in hybrid functions such as boost, recuperate, load point shift, gliding and restarting the engine almost imperceptibly during start/stop functioning. For the first time, EQ Boost is also responsible for
idle speed control, allowing fuel savings previously reserved for high-voltage hybrid technology.
The potent combination means the GLE 63 S is capable of acceleration from standstill to 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds on the way to a top speed of 280 km/h (electronically limited); the larger GLS 63 covers the same
sprint in 4.2 seconds, also to an electronically limited top speed of 280 km/h.
Further emphasising the sporty nature of the potent V8 powerplant in each vehicle are active dynamic engine mounts, with the dual purpose to soften the connection between the chassis and the powertrain for added comfort when it’s needed, but also to increase rigidity as required to optimise dynamic driving styles. The engine is also equipped with a cylinder shut-off function that can deactivate four cylinders under partial load, reducing fuel consumption. The transition between modes is immediate, fast and torque-neutral.
The new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+
The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ is an SUV for the family with the soul of a sports car. Its ample power for every occasion is harnessed by an AMG high-performance composite braking system, an AMG selectable performance exhaust system, and AMG speed-sensitive sport steering. The AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL roll stabilisation system ensures precisely controllable and direct handling, in conjunction with the AMG RIDE CONTROL+ continuously adaptive damping system.
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT as standard enables a choice of modes including Comfort, Individual, Slippery, Trail, Sand, Sport, Sport+ and RACE. In the latter three modes, the vehicle automatically lowers by 10 mm at 120
km/h to reduce drag and improve stability. Keen drivers can even choose to more closely match their driving style to different conditions using AMG DYNAMICS, which divides modes into the agility functions “Basic”,
“Advanced”, “Pro” and “Master”. Parameters such as the response of the engine and suspension, or the control thresholds of the completely redeveloped ESP®, are intelligently adapted according to the drive program.
Both inside and out, muscular design cues affirm membership of the Mercedes-AMG family, including the imposing powerdomes in the bonnet, a redesigned rear apron featuring a striking diffuser and a roof-edge
spoiler to round out the sporty appearance. The GLE 63 S model is fitted as standard with 21-inch AMG 5-twinspoke alloy wheels painted in black with a high-sheen finish.
Inside, the highlights continue with multi-contour front seats in AMG Exclusive Nappa leather, an AMG Performance steering wheel finished in Nappa leather and DINAMICA microfibre, and the MBUX ‘High’
infotainment system, including AMG specific displays and the track-focused AMG TRACK PACE data logging program.
Completing a comprehensive array of features are four-zone climate control, seat and armrest heating plus temperature-controlled cupholders for front passengers, power-closing doors, a Burmester® surround sound
system and a panoramic glass sunroof.
A suite of safety features includes Driving Assistance Package Plus, Active Traffic Assist, PRE-SAFE impulse side crash preparation system, Active Parking Assist and Traffic Sign Assist.
The new Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+
The spacious GLS 63 4MATIC+ brings luxurious appointments to occupants in all of its seven, electrically operated seats. Comprehensively equipped with all the GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ has to offer and more. The GLS 63
adds five-zone climate control with AIR BALANCE Package, the MBUX Innovation Package including MBUX Interior Assistant, MBUX Augmented Reality for Navigation, and 22-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels to its
standard specification. The large body style also offers the most generous cargo-carrying ability of the Mercedes-AMG passenger car range.
The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ SUV and Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ SUV are on sale now.
Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ SUV $232,900 (MRRP)
Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ SUV $272,300 (MRRP)
The price detailed in this post is the current Manufacturer’s Recommended Retail Price (MRRP) at time of post and does not include any On-Road costs.
Subscribe to our newsletter to stay current with all the new models on offer at our Mercedes-Benz dealerships.
Mercedes-Benz New Zealand Press Release 16 November 2020. Please contact our sales team for any further information.