The Mercedes-Benz GLE 63 AMG, specifically the W166 generation produced between March 2015 and May 2018, represents the high-performance variant of the mid-size GLE SUV. Positioned as the flagship model within the GLE range, it offered a potent combination of luxury, space, and exhilarating performance. This variant, equipped with the 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine and the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, catered to buyers seeking a powerful and capable SUV with a premium driving experience. It served as a direct competitor to high-performance SUVs from Porsche, BMW, and Land Rover.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GLE |
| Generation | GLE SUV (W166) |
| Type | AMG GLE 63 V8 (557 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 | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.1 kg/Hp, 245.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 308.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 557 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102 Hp/l |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 1750-5500 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft. @ 1750-5500 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 | 1762 mm (69.37 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2915 mm (114.76 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 182 mm (7.17 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 21-23° |
| Departure angle | 24° |
| Climb angle | 38.7° |
| Wading depth | 500 mm (19.69 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS G-TRONIC |
| 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/45 R20; 295/35 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 20; 10J x 21 |
INTRODUCTION
The W166 GLE 63 AMG, launched in 2015, represented a significant upgrade over its predecessor. Built on the M-Class platform (internally designated as the 166 series), the GLE 63 offered a more refined interior, improved technology, and, crucially, the potent M157 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. This engine, paired with the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission and Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, established the GLE 63 as a formidable performer in the luxury SUV segment. It was produced until 2018, when it was superseded by the next-generation GLE (W167).
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the GLE 63 AMG is the M157.982 5.5-liter V8 engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and twin turbochargers to produce 557 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 5500 rpm. The engine features a sophisticated valvetrain with four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 10:1. The twin-turbo setup employs intercoolers to manage intake air temperatures, maximizing power output. The 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, a seven-speed unit, is specifically tuned for performance, offering quick and precise shifts. It features AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS technology, allowing for manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability, distributing power between the front and rear axles as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The GLE 63 AMG delivers a driving experience that is both luxurious and exhilarating. The powerful V8 engine provides effortless acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.1 seconds. The 7G-TRONIC transmission contributes to this performance with its rapid gear changes. While the automatic transmission isn’t as engaging as a dual-clutch system, it offers smooth operation in everyday driving. The air suspension provides a comfortable ride, while also allowing for adjustable ride height and stiffness. In Sport mode, the suspension firms up, reducing body roll and enhancing handling. Compared to lower-powered GLE variants, the 63 AMG offers a significantly more responsive and dynamic driving experience. The increased power and torque, combined with the sport-tuned suspension and brakes, make it a true performance SUV.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GLE 63 AMG came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Standard exterior features included AMG-specific body styling, large alloy wheels, and performance brakes. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, advanced driver-assistance systems (such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist), and upgraded interior trim options. The interior typically featured AMG sport seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and aluminum pedal covers, emphasizing the vehicle’s performance character.
Chassis & Braking
The GLE 63 AMG features a robust chassis designed to handle the engine’s power. The suspension utilizes a double-wishbone front setup and an independent multi-link rear setup, both incorporating air suspension and transverse stabilizers. This configuration provides a balance of comfort and handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger rotors and multi-piston calipers at the front. This provides ample stopping power for spirited driving. The AMG-tuned steering offers precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GLE 63 AMG was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted that its size and weight could make it feel less agile than smaller performance SUVs. Compared to the standard GLE models, the 63 AMG offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a considerable price premium. Fuel economy was also considerably lower than that of the base models. Against competitors like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and BMW X5 M, the GLE 63 AMG offered a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and value.
Legacy
The W166 GLE 63 AMG has proven to be a relatively reliable performance SUV, although maintenance costs can be higher than those of non-AMG models. The M157 engine, while powerful, is known to require regular maintenance, including oil changes and spark plug replacements. The air suspension system can also be prone to issues over time. However, with proper care, the GLE 63 AMG can provide years of enjoyable driving. On the used car market, these models hold their value relatively well, appealing to buyers seeking a high-performance luxury SUV with a proven track record.
