AMG didn't ditch the V8: the updated GLE 63 S is still seriously fast

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Mercedes-AMG has facelifted the GLE 63 S 4Matic+ — the range-topping version of the GLE crossover. The update touches exterior, cabin and powertrain, but the headline for AMG fans is intact: the car has not been switched to a six-cylinder or four-cylinder hybrid, and keeps its 4.0-litre V8 biturbo.

On the outside, the GLE 63 S looks sharper thanks to a redesigned front. There is now an illuminated Panamericana grille with an oversized star, new headlights with a twin-star light signature and tail lights in the same style. The Coupe version can be ordered with the Night II pack featuring Dark Chrome accents. New wheel designs and a revised AMG Performance exhaust with adjustable flaps are also part of the deal.

Mechanically, the engine has not simply been carried over. The V8 M177 has been promoted to Evo spec: it gets a new intake camshaft, a reworked injection system, a flat-plane crankshaft and a handful of other revisions. Output stays the same — 612 hp and 850 Nm. The mild-hybrid starter-generator briefly adds 23 hp and 205 Nm on top. Zero to 100 km/h takes 3.9 seconds, top speed is electronically limited to 280 km/h.

Inside, the main change is the Superscreen with three 12.3-inch displays. AMG models get dedicated graphic modes, including a torque-distribution readout. There is also a new AMG Performance steering wheel. Pricing has not been announced yet. Before the update, the GLE 63 S started at around 168,000 euros in Germany for the SUV and 178,000 euros for the Coupe.