The Mercedes-Benz GLE 63 S V8 (612 Hp) EQ Boost 4MATIC+, produced from 2020 to 2023, represents the high-performance pinnacle of the V167 GLE SUV generation. Positioned as the flagship model within the GLE lineup, it combines a potent twin-turbocharged V8 engine with mild-hybrid technology to deliver exhilarating performance and a luxurious driving experience. This variant caters to buyers seeking a blend of practicality, space, and uncompromising power in a premium SUV package. It builds upon the foundation of the V167 platform, which debuted in 2019, offering a significant upgrade over the standard GLE models in terms of both performance and technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLE |
| Generation | GLE SUV (V167) |
| Type | AMG GLE 63 S V8 (612 Hp) EQ Boost 4MATIC+ AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 12.2 l/100 km (19.3 US mpg, 23.2 UK mpg, 8.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 12.6 l/100 km (18.7 US mpg, 22.4 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 277-287 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 15.3 l/100 km (15.4 US mpg, 18.5 UK mpg, 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 11.5 l/100 km (20.5 US mpg, 24.6 UK mpg, 8.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 262 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 280 km/h (173.98 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.8 kg/Hp, 261 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm, 362.5 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 0.9 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Electric motor power | 22 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Power | 612 Hp @ 5750-6500 rpm |
| Torque | 850 Nm @ 2500-4500 rpm (626.93 lb.-ft. @ 2500-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 177.980 |
| Engine displacement | 3982 cm3 (243 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | 2 x Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2345 kg (5169.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3120 kg (6878.42 lbs.) |
| Max load | 775 kg (1708.58 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 630 l (22.25 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1380 l (48.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 85 l (22.45 US gal | 18.7 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Wheelbase | 2995 mm (117.91 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive rear wheels, with on-demand front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 400 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 370 mm |
| Front tires | 275/45 R21 |
| Rear tires | 315/40 R21 |
| Front wheel rims | 10J x 21 |
| Rear wheel rims | 11J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the AMG GLE 63 S lies the M177.980 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine is a marvel of engineering, featuring direct fuel injection, a hot-side-inside turbocharger configuration for quicker response, and a sophisticated cylinder deactivation system (AMG Cylinder Management) to improve fuel efficiency during cruising. The engine produces 612 horsepower at 5750-6500 rpm and a massive 850 Nm (626.93 lb-ft) of torque between 2500-4500 rpm. Adding to this is a 48-volt mild-hybrid system (EQ Boost) which provides an additional 22 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque, filling in gaps in the torque curve and enabling features like ‘glide sailing’ for enhanced efficiency. The engine is longitudinally mounted and paired with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is specifically tuned for rapid and precise gear changes, offering various driving modes including a manual mode for driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The AMG GLE 63 S delivers a driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined. The combination of the powerful V8, the EQ Boost system, and the quick-shifting transmission results in blistering acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. The 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction, allowing for confident handling in various conditions. While the 9-speed transmission offers a wide range of gears for efficiency, it’s primarily geared towards performance, with lower gears providing immediate response. Compared to the standard GLE models or even the GLE 53 variant, the 63 S offers a significantly more aggressive and sporty driving experience. The suspension is tuned for performance, providing a firm but controlled ride, and the steering is precise and communicative.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The AMG GLE 63 S comes standard with a comprehensive suite of luxury and performance features. Interior appointments include AMG sport seats upholstered in Nappa leather, a flat-bottom AMG steering wheel, and brushed aluminum or carbon fiber trim. Standard technology includes the MBUX infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, a digital instrument cluster, and a premium Burmester surround sound system. Optional extras include massaging seats, a head-up display, and various driver-assistance systems. The exterior features AMG-specific styling cues, including a unique front grille, aggressive bodywork, and large exhaust outlets.
Chassis & Braking
The GLE 63 S features an AMG-tuned air suspension system with adaptive damping, providing a balance between comfort and handling. The suspension is designed to lower the vehicle at higher speeds for improved aerodynamics and stability. The braking system consists of large, ventilated discs on all four wheels (400mm front, 370mm rear) with AMG-branded calipers. ABS, electronic stability control, and a suite of driver-assistance systems are standard, enhancing safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The AMG GLE 63 S was generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its exceptional performance, luxurious interior, and advanced technology. However, its high price tag and relatively poor fuel economy were noted as drawbacks. Compared to rivals like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and the BMW X5 M, the GLE 63 S offered a compelling combination of power, luxury, and practicality. While the Cayenne Turbo often received praise for its sharper handling, the GLE 63 S provided a more comfortable ride and a more spacious interior.
Legacy
The M177 engine family, including the version found in the GLE 63 S, has proven to be relatively reliable, although maintenance costs can be substantial due to the complexity of the engine and its associated systems. The 48-volt mild-hybrid system has also demonstrated good long-term durability. On the used car market, the AMG GLE 63 S holds its value well, appealing to buyers seeking a high-performance luxury SUV. Its blend of power, technology, and practicality ensures its continued desirability among enthusiasts.
