Mercedes-Benz is on a relentless spree of new launches in India this year and the newest to join the German company’s line-up is the AMG GLE 63 S 4Matic+ Coupé. This is a high-performance, V8-engined SUV, with a 48-volt electrical system for a bit of added EQ boost. With this, the number of Mercedes-AMG models available in India has gone up to 12, which underlines Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to capturing the growing affluent-enthusiast market in India.
Under its substantial hood, the GLE 63 S packs a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that produces a massive 612 horsepower and 850Nm of torque. If that weren’t enough already, there’s also an integrated ‘EQ Boost’ starter-alternator, which combines a starter motor and an alternator in an electric motor that sits between the engine and the transmission. This provides an additional 16kW (22bhp) and 250Nm of torque, which can also be summoned temporarily for an extra bit of shove while getting off the line.
With 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive providing extra grip and the V8’s power going out to all four wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission, GLE 63 S can accelerate from zero to 100kph in 3.8 seconds, going on to hit a top speed of 280kph. ‘The AMG portfolio remains the fastest growing segment for us, and the launch of the AMG GLE 63 S Coupé reinforces our strong presence in the luxury performance segment. This vehicle sets high standard for design, driving dynamics and agility,’ says Martin Schwenk, MD and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India.
Schwenk also points out that the new GLE’s AMG Performance-specific all-wheel-drive system makes it a very capable off-roader, which adds to its repertoire of luxury and on-road dynamics. The SUV features a sophisticated, technically advanced air suspension system, which includes active ride control for added stability and improved high-speed cornering prowess. With its massive 22-inch wheels and aggressive styling – all bulging muscle, hunkered-down stance and angry-looking AMG grille up front – the GLE 63 sends out a clear ‘don’t mess with me’ message.
Inside the cabin, there’s Nappa leather upholstery, a three-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel wrapped in DINAMICA micro-fibre, aluminium shift paddles, fully digital instrumentation and a large infotainment touchscreen for controlling the SUV’s wide range of systems and functions. There’s also a host of safety equipment on board, including ABS, ESP, airbags all around the cabin an electronic limited-slip differential at the back, plus a range of electronic driver assistance systems that provide an added layer of security.
A notable feature on the GLE 63 S is its intelligent cylinder management system, which boosts efficiency. Under partial load, the system shuts down four of the V8’s cylinders, letting the vehicle run on four cylinders only, which helps reduce fuel consumption. As soon as the driver prods the throttle hard, all cylinder’s chime in immediately, without any lag or delay. The system’s operation varies according to the driving mode selected and the boost in efficiency never compromises the SUV’s acceleration or performance.
The AMG GLE 63 S 4Matic+ Coupé comes with a price tag that’s as impressive as its design and performance; Rs 2.07 crore, ex-showroom, and let’s admit that isn’t exactly cheap. There’s also the competition to consider. There’s the BMW X5 M Competition and the Audi RSQ8, both of which are equally fast and capable, with similar price tags. For those who have even more money to spend, there’s also the Lamborghini Urus, which is faster, a bit more powerful and around 50% more expensive, and the Aston Martin DBX, which is even more pricey and one of the most luxurious. For AMG fans, none of this should matter – the GLE 63 S offers extreme performance, with everyday practicality. In the world of high-performance SUVs, the GLE 63 fears nothing and nobody.
