The Mercedes-Benz GLE 63 S 4MATIC, produced from March 2015 to May 2018, represents the high-performance variant of the W166 GLE SUV generation. Positioned as the flagship model within the GLE lineup, it offered a substantial increase in power and luxury compared to the standard GLE models, competing directly with performance SUVs from BMW and Porsche. This variant was exclusively offered with a 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine paired with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission and the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. It aimed to deliver a blend of everyday usability and exhilarating performance, appealing to buyers seeking a powerful and refined SUV.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLE |
| Generation | GLE SUV (W166) |
| Type | AMG GLE 63 S V8 (585 Hp) 4MATIC AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC |
| Start of production | March, 2015 |
| End of production | May, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg, 29.4 UK mpg, 10.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 276 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.9 kg/Hp, 257.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 334.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 585 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 760 Nm @ 1750-5250 rpm (560.55 lb.-ft. @ 1750-5250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M 157.982 |
| Engine displacement | 5461 cm3 (333.25 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2270 kg (5004.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3050 kg (6724.1 lbs.) |
| Max load | 780 kg (1719.61 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 690 l (24.37 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2010 l (70.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 93 l (24.57 US gal | 20.46 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3050 kg (6724.1 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 140 kg (308.65 lbs.) |
| Length | 4852 mm (191.02 in.) |
| Width | 1970 mm (77.56 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2141 mm (84.29 in.) |
| Height | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2915 mm (114.76 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 180 mm (7.09 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 390×36 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×26 mm |
| Gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS G-TRONIC |
| Tires size | 295/35 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 10J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the GLE 63 S is the M157.982 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a sophisticated twin-turbocharger setup to deliver substantial power and torque. The engine’s architecture features a hot-side-inside configuration, placing the turbochargers within the V of the engine, which reduces exhaust manifold length and improves throttle response. The engine also incorporates cylinder deactivation technology, allowing it to operate on four cylinders under light load conditions to improve fuel efficiency. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission is a seven-speed unit designed for quick and precise gear changes. It features multiple driving modes, including a manual mode, and is optimized for performance driving.
Driving Characteristics
The GLE 63 S delivers a remarkably potent driving experience. The combination of the powerful V8 engine and the responsive automatic transmission results in rapid acceleration and effortless cruising. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions. While the GLE 63 S is a large SUV, the air suspension and AMG-tuned chassis contribute to surprisingly agile handling. Compared to the standard GLE models, the 63 S offers a significantly more aggressive and engaging driving experience. The gear ratios are tuned for performance, prioritizing acceleration over fuel economy. The exhaust note is also considerably more pronounced, adding to the overall sporty character.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLE 63 S came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and a large infotainment display. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather options, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The interior design emphasized luxury and sportiness, with AMG-specific styling cues such as a flat-bottom steering wheel and aluminum pedals.
Chassis & Braking
The GLE 63 S features an air suspension system that provides a comfortable ride while also allowing for adjustable ride height. The suspension is tuned for performance, with stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard GLE models. The braking system consists of large, ventilated discs with multi-piston calipers, providing ample stopping power. The front brakes measure 390×36 mm, while the rear brakes are 345×26 mm. The vehicle also incorporates ABS, electronic stability control, and other advanced safety systems.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mercedes-Benz GLE 63 S was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and surprisingly agile handling. However, some critics noted that its fuel economy was relatively poor, and its size could make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces. Compared to other high-performance SUVs, such as the BMW X5 M and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, the GLE 63 S offered a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and practicality. The GLE 63 S typically commanded a premium price compared to the lower-trim GLE models.
Legacy
The M157 engine, while powerful, has been known to exhibit some long-term reliability concerns, particularly related to the valve guides and turbochargers. Regular maintenance and preventative servicing are crucial for ensuring the longevity of this powertrain. In the used car market, the GLE 63 S remains a desirable vehicle for buyers seeking a high-performance SUV with a luxurious interior. Its combination of power, comfort, and practicality continues to appeal to a wide range of enthusiasts. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the vehicle’s complex engine and drivetrain.
