Mercedes GLS 63 AMG (2022) - representation of a luxury SUV!

2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS-Class
Starting from: 187.000 €

Pros Roaring 603-horsepower V-8, first-class interior, tech equipment list.
The Lows Transmission could use polish, a bouncy ride, a six-figure starting price.
Verdict If you're looking for S-Class luxury and oil-truck movement, the AMG-tuned GLS63 will satisfy your need for speed.

Overview
The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLS63, with its powerful twin-turbocharged V-8 engine under the hood, takes the performance of the standard GLS-class SUV to a whole new level. This hot rod has competitors such as the BMW X7 M50i and Cadillac Escalade V-series. Sport-tuned air suspension comes as standard and improves its handling on the road, albeit with a much firmer ride. That doesn't mean the GLS63 isn't luxurious. Its leather interior is trimmed with high-quality materials, it is spacious and extremely comfortable - at least in the first two rows. A plethora of technical features come standard, with even more advanced features such as semi-autonomous driving available as an option.

What's new for 2022?

The mighty GLS63 is virtually unchanged for 2022. We were worried it wouldn't happen at all this year due to supply chain issues that Mercedes has reported are delaying production. But we've confirmed that the GLS63 is back in business and ready to wow your family with its 603bhp twin-turbo V-8 engine.
Prices and which one to buy
GLS63 4Matic: €187,000

While the GLS63's starting price is in the six-figure range, we still offer a few options that the whole family is sure to love. First, the Warmth and Comfort package is a good package for those living in northern climates as it adds heated door panels, heated armrests and a heated center console. We also offer the Energizing package, which includes an in-cabin aroma diffuser and the Acoustic Comfort package, and adds increased cabin insulation for a quieter interior. Mercedes-AMG also offers plenty of standalone features to grab your attention, including crazy 23-inch multi-spoke forged wheels that look just perfect framed by the GLS63's beefy wheel arches.

Engine, transmission and performance
Under the hood of the GLS63 is a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine that develops a whopping 603 horsepower via a 48-volt hybrid system. All-wheel drive is standard, as is a nine-speed automatic transmission and air suspension. We were blown away by the 2021 GLS63's performance on our test track, as it outperformed several hot sports cars we've recently tested, hitting 60 mph in 3.6 seconds. By comparison, the old GLS63, which made just 577 horsepower, hit 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. As impressed as we are with the GLS's acceleration, we can't say the same about its driving dynamics. The ride is stiff, especially on the optional 23-inch wheels, but that stiffness doesn't translate to a sense of precision when cornering. The body of the GLS wobbles more than expected, although it still offers enough grip to have fun on a twisty road.

Fuel economy and real MPG
EPA estimates the GLS63's fuel economy is 14 mpg city and 18 mpg highway. On our 200-mile highway fuel economy test route, the GLS63 delivered a respectable 22 mpg; the GLS63's archrival, the BMW X7 M50i, gets 24 mpg in the same test. For more information on GLS class fuel economy, visit the EPA website.

Interior, comfort and cargo
Three rows of seats and a slightly sportier interior styling compared to Benz's GLS class set the GLS63 apart from powerful two-row SUVs such as the BMW X5 M and Audi RS Q8. Like these competitors, the GLS63 is superbly equipped inside. Soft leather covers almost every square inch of the cabin, while non-leather areas are trimmed with real wood and tastefully applied chrome; buttons and knobs have a rich metal finish. Front-seat passengers can enjoy a massage as they race down the Interstate, and there's plenty of room for passengers in the second row, which can also be equipped with heated seats and power sunshades. The third row of seats is cramped for adults, but perfect for kids.