Mercedes-AMG GLE and GLS 63 2020 detailed: Even more power for large SUV bruisers

Mercedes-AMG has revealed its new high-performance GLE 63 large SUV, and GLS 63 seven seater at the Los Angeles motor show, with both confirmed to arrive locally in the second half of 2020.

According to Mercedes’ Australian arm, the GLE 63 S is expected to arrive in Q3, however, it has no plans to import the lower-spec GLE 63 (non-S).

The upper-large GLS 63 will land slightly later, with initial deliveries pegged for Q4 of next year.

Both vehicles utilise a 450kW/850Nm 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, which for the first time is matched with an electric motor that can temporarily boost power by 16kW/250Nm.

With a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive as standard, the GLE 63 S will accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 3.8 seconds, while the GLS manages the sprint in 4.2s.

In terms of fuel consumption, the GLE sips 11.5 litres per 100 kilometres, while the heavier GLS uses 11.9L/100km.

As standard, the German SUVs ride on an air suspension system with adaptive dampers, which can be modified via three driver modes, and an active roll stabilisation setup helps manage body roll.

Further aiding in performance is an electronically locking differential at the rear axle, as well as a speed-sensitive power steering system which can be tailored to the driver’s taste.

Large AMG brakes are fitted, with six-piston callipers grabbing 400mm discs at the front, and single-piston floating callipers and 370mm discs at the rear.

The all-wheel-drive system benefits from a number of driver modes to adapt to the varying conditions that an SUV may tackle, including Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual (custom), Race, Trail and Sand.

Inside, the performance SUV duo are clad in nappa leather, with sporty touches like AMG seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, carbon-fibre trim elements and aluminium shift paddles.

The high-tech MBUX widescreen multimedia system can be tailored with four display styles including Modern Classic, Sporty, Discreet and Supersport, and can be controlled with hand gestures and voice activation.

A Driving Assistance package will be offered, which includes a wide array of safety technologies, however, exact specifications for Australia have yet to be locked in.