Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the new GLE63 S 4MATIC+ at LA Auto Show.
The 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine in the new GLE63 is fitted for the first time in both output variants (420 kW/571 hp and 450 kW/612 hp) with an integrated EQ Boost starter-alternator. It combines a starter motor and an alternator in a single, powerful electric motor and is integrated between the engine and the transmission to save space.
For increased efficiency, Mercedes-AMG has also equipped the V8 engines with cylinder shut-off. In the partial-load range, cylinders two, three, five and eight are deactivated, which crucially reduces the fuel consumption. When the driver has selected the “Comfort” drive program, the cylinder deactivation system is available in the wide engine speed range from 1000 to 3250 rpm.
The standard AMG RIDE CONTROL+ air suspension and the adaptively adjustable ADS+ (Adaptive Damping System) configured for the characteristics of an SUV combine outstanding agility and excellent vehicle dynamics with maximum traction and superb day-to-day comfort. The damping characteristics can be preselected in three stages – “Comfort”, “Sport” and “Sport+”, allowing a much more obvious distinction between high long-distance comfort and sporty vehicle dynamics.
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive with fully variable torque distribution
The performance-oriented all-wheel drive system continuously ensures the best possible ratio of dynamism, traction and efficiency. An electromechanically controlled clutch connects the permanently driven rear axle variably to the front axle. The best possible torque split is continuously computed according to the driving conditions and driver’s input. The transition from rear-wheel to all-wheel drive and vice versa is seamless, as the intelligent control is integrated into the overall vehicle system architecture. Alongside traction and lateral dynamics, the all-wheel drive also improves the longitudinal dynamics for even more powerful acceleration. The influencing factors for torque distribution are not only the driving speed, the lateral and longitudinal acceleration and the steering angle, but also the difference in rotational speed between the individual wheels and the gear selected.
More traction and dynamism: the locking differential
To further improve traction and dynamism, the GLE63 and GLE63 S have an electronically controlled locking differential at the rear axle as standard. The slip is thus suppressed at the inner wheel on bends, ensuring optimum grip and maximum handling safety. The driver is therefore able to accelerate out of corners earlier and with more power thanks to the improved traction. The vehicle remains more stable when braking from high speed, while the limited-slip differential also improves traction when accelerating from a standstill.
Good control and fade-resistant: the AMG high-performance braking systems
In line with the high output values and their associated performance, the new GLE63 models have a large-dimensioned high-performance brake system with 6-piston fixed brake callipers and 400 x 38 mm brake discs at the front, plus single-piston floating brake callipers and 370 x 32 mm discs at the rear. The S variant is characterised by red brake callipers, while the base variant has grey brake callipers.
Fast and agile: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission is specially tuned to the requirements of the eight-cylinder engine in the GLE63. The systematic further development of hardware and software has made it possible to further optimise the reaction times. This means that automatic and manual shift commands can be implemented more quickly than ever before. Various reinforcement measures also ensure durability and performance with the high torque generated by the V8 engine. A wet start-off clutch is used rather than a torque converter. This saves weight, reduces inertia and thus optimises responsiveness.
Exterior design – muscular and distinctive
The design idiom of the exterior embodies sheer energy and Performance Luxury. The AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical louvres reaffirms membership of the AMG model family, while the dynamic arrow-shape of the front section with its smaller angle of approach emphasises the distinctive proportions. As a typical feature of the Performance models, the front apron in a dynamic jet-wing design is painted in the vehicle colour and has black air intakes. Imposing powerdomes in the bonnet and the front splitter in silver chrome emphasise the sharper all-round design.
The side skirts, exterior mirror housings and flared wheel arches are painted in the vehicle colour, and seamlessly blend into the muscular overall look. Different wheel/tyre combinations cover all on and off-road requirements. The base model is shod with 20-inch light-alloy wheels with AMG lettering as standard, while the S variant comes with 21-inch wheels ex-factory. Other wheel variants with diameters from 21 to 22 inches are optionally available.
Interior design – progressive elegance and robust ambience
The high-quality interior is characterised by a systematically sporty ambience with a dynamic and exclusive touch. The standard AMG seats are upholstered in nappa leather, provide optimum lateral support and have an AMG-specific seat pattern layout with an “AMG” badge in the front backrests. Other leather variants are optionally available. Individually adjustable ambient lighting comes as standard. The second seat row is optionally available with full electric adjustment.
AMG-specific interior appointments and controls lend the cockpit a hallmark AMG atmosphere and support sporty, precise handling. The latest generation, three-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles impresses with its optimum driver-oriented ergonomics. In the base model the steering wheel rim is lined in black nappa leather, and in the S variant in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre, in each case with a black 12-o’clock marking. Further options include AMG steering wheel buttons for particularly fast operation of dynamically relevant parameters.
Comfort and support while driving: something for all purposes
The optional Driving Assistance package supports the driver on a situational basis, with speed adaptation, steering, lane changes and even when there is a risk of collision. Components include Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Speed Limit Assist, extended automatic restart on motorways, speed adjustment based on the route with End of Tailback Function, Active Steering Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, Active Emergency Stop Assist, Emergency Lane Function; Active Brake Assist, Cornering and Cross-Traffic Function, End of Tailback Emergency Brake Function, Evasive Steering Assist; Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Exit Warning Function; PRE-SAFE® PLUS and Traffic Sign Assist.
The Driving Assistance package Plus offers an exceptionally high level of comfort and safety. It additionally includes Active Stop-and-Go Assist, which provides support when driving in traffic, while in the event of a side collision, PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side can offer additional protection.
