New Mercedes-Benz GLS 63 AMG Keeps Its 612 HP V8

The 2027 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ keeps the hand-built 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, retains 612 hp, and adds a revised 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This remains a three-row luxury SUV with sports-car acceleration, a 280 km/h maximum speed, and strong towing ability. It also weighs about 2,738 kg, stretches past 5.2 metres, and consumes up to 13.7 litres/100 km under WLTP testing. Physics still sends invoices.

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2027 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 Specifications

The M177 EVO V8 Targets Response and Regulation

The new M177 EVO V8 uses a flat-plane crankshaft instead of the previous cross-plane design. This layout cuts rotating mass and gives the engine a faster response to throttle inputs. Mercedes-AMG also revised the intake camshaft, injection hardware, intake and exhaust ports, compressor wheel, and turbocharger housing.

Power stays at 612 hp, while 850 Nm remains available from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm. Looking at the data, Mercedes-AMG redesigned the engine to preserve V8 character under stricter emissions rules rather than chase a decorative power increase.

A petrol particulate filter now appears in every market. In addition, the new AMG Performance exhaust uses controllable valves, giving Comfort mode a quieter voice and Sport+ a harder-edged sound.

What the 48-Volt System Does

The second-generation integrated starter-generator adds up to 23 hp and 205 Nm for brief periods. It fills the low-rev gap before the turbochargers reach full pressure, recovers energy during deceleration, and restarts the engine with less vibration.

This system does not make the GLS 63 mild hybrid an electric commuter. Its job centres on response, refinement, and accessory power.

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Acceleration, Gearbox, and Traction

Mercedes-AMG quotes 4.2 seconds from 0-100 km/h. The 280 km/h maximum speed puts this seven-seat SUV in serious performance territory, though lighter five-seat rivals accelerate faster.

The nine-speed AMG Speedshift TCT replaces a conventional torque converter with a wet start-off clutch. That choice cuts rotating weight and produces quicker, more direct shifts while retaining smooth low-speed control. Specifically, Sport and Sport+ shorten shift times and add rev-matched downshifts.

The fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ system sends torque between the axles according to grip and driver demand. An electronically controlled rear locking differential divides power across the rear axle without braking the inside wheel, which preserves momentum and reduces wheelspin.

Active Suspension Controls 2.7 Tonnes

The AMG Ride Control+ air suspension pairs adaptive dampers with electromechanical anti-roll hardware on both axles. Sensors read steering, body movement, and road inputs up to 1,000 times per second, then apply counterforce to reduce lean without excessively stiff springs.

That engineering separates vertical comfort from lateral control. The air springs absorb bumps while the anti-roll units resist cornering forces.

Ride-height functions include:

• Trail mode raises the body by 55 mm and adjusts damping and all-wheel drive.
• A manual control adds up to 20 mm for ramps, snow, or poor roads.
• Sport and Sport+ lower the body by 10 mm.
• Comfort mode lowers the body by 10 mm above 120 km/h.
• Self-levelling maintains ride height with passengers, luggage, or trailer load.

Size, Seating, and Utility

The 2027 AMG GLS 63 dimensions confirm its scale. It measures 5,233 mm/206.0 inches long, 2,030 mm/79.9 inches wide without mirrors, and 1,836 mm/72.3 inches tall. The wheelbase spans 3,135 mm/123.4 inches.

Mercedes-AMG describes seating for up to seven, though some national configurations list six seats when individual second-row chairs replace the bench. Buyers should check the specification before ordering.

Practical figures include:

• Width with mirrors: 2,157 mm/84.9 inches
• Turning circle: 13.1 metres/43.0 feet
• Luggage capacity behind the third row: 355 litres
• Payload: 695 kg
• Roof load: 100 kg
• Braked trailer rating: 3,300 kg

That 13.1-metre turning circle deserves attention in European cities. Underground car parks will demand patience, parking cameras, and occasional negotiations with concrete pillars.

Cabin Technology and Comfort

The cabin combines MB.OS, high-resolution displays, AMG performance pages, and a steering wheel with dedicated control switches. Drivers can view torque distribution, G-force readings, engine data, navigation, and assistance settings.

Nappa leather, carbon-fibre or aluminium trim, a MICROCUT microfibre headlining, a panoramic roof, and multicontour front seats set the luxury brief. Rear passengers can receive twin 11.6-inch entertainment displays, while optional comfort packages add heated armrests and extra controls.

From an expert perspective, the large screens provide useful data but increase reliance on software for basic functions. Buyers planning long ownership should judge menu speed, update support, and shortcut access during a test drive.

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Exterior Changes Serve Cooling

The revised front section uses a larger AMG grille, expanded air intakes, and a new LED signature. The openings feed a V8 and cooling circuit that must manage sustained high loads.

Four exhaust outlets and a diffuser-style rear bumper retain familiar AMG cues. Wheels extend to 23 inches, though 21- or 22-inch choices should lower tyre costs and improve impact isolation.

Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 vs Direct Rivals

The Audi and Range Rover win the acceleration contest. The BMW offers seven seats at a much lower entry price. The Mercedes answers with 850 Nm, a usable third row, active roll control, and a strong mix of towing, cabin space, and speed.